Providence CollegeIssue No. 3 IDEI in our Community

May 2020

A Word from Jacqueline PetersonI hope that all of you and your families are safe and well. The Institutional Diversity, Equity and Inclusion team is pleased to share with you the final issue of the semester of IDEI in our Community. Never would any of us have imagined that the academic year would end in such an unusual way as this experience resulting from the novel COVID-19 pandemic. Our hearts go out to all who have suffered illness, loss of family members, or financial hardships as a result of the pandemic. While the challenges during this unprecedented time have been daunting, we have also witnessed extraordinary heroism throughout the country and the world. Doctors, nurses, first responders, public health personnel, government officials, and those in the grocery industry have responded with unwavering valor and humanity, to keep us healthy, safe, and fed. The heroes among us in the PC community—the faculty, technology experts, health care and student affairs professionals, and campus ministers—responded swiftly with urgency in just a few tumultuous weeks, to transition PC from a vibrant campus living and learning community to one operating primarily in a virtual environment. PC students, for whom college-life as they have known it changed in the blink of an eye, have shown amazing resilience adjusting to the current state of affairs. PC alumni and friends have generously given to a fund that will help students facing emergencies. The collective efforts of the PC community, during this unparalleled time, reinforces the College’s resolve to being inclusive, supportive, and collaborative.

Minfdul of the COVID crisis, I hope that you will enjoy this final newsletter of the semester which includes useful information, helpful resources, and uplifting testimonies. Let us all look optimistically toward the Fall and the opportunity for creating community together in a “new normal” with the hope that, in time, it will all become a little more normal!

Throughout the past few weeks, federal, state, local government and community leaders across the US have used language that misrepresents COVID-19 and endangers global Asian communities and Asian -Americans in the US. Both informally and in official communications they have respectively referred to COVID-19 as “Kungflu Virus,” “Chinavirus,” “the Chinese Virus,” and “Wuhan Virus.” Internationally this messaging undermines the dignity of Asian people and breeds divisiveness among nations who are trying to partner to address this global pandemic together. In the United States, these actions undermine the safety of Chinese American and other Asian American communities and increase xenophobia and discrimination as a whole. Further, COVID-19 has been used by the Administration as an opportunity to further racialize, denigrate, and call into question the rights of all immigrants in our country.

The Office of Institutional Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Providence College is committed to the well-being of all members of the PC community. Any attempt to normalize xenophobia and bigotry is squarely against our mission as a department and a College. As we move forward to address this global pandemic, the Office of Institutional Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion stands with Asian American and other immigrant communities to condemn xenophobic or racialized classifications of COVID-19. We encourage all members of the PC community to join us in promoting actual information about the virus, cultural competence in discussing it, and an inclusive sense of belonging and community care for everyone during this very difficult time. As a Dominican Catholic institution and a place of teaching and learning, we have a responsibility to lead with knowledge, love, equity, and inclusion for our whole community.

Jacqueline PetersonSpecial Advisor to the PresidentHarkins 312

Office Location: Harkins Hall, Room 312Phone Number: (401)-865-2836

Created by: Kalan Lewis

A Message From the IDEI Team

Nicholas Longo ProfessorFeinstein Academic Center 315

Turning to One Another in a Time of Physical Distancing:Teaching for Social Solidarity Margaret Wheatley’s “Turning to One Another” was the first reading assigned in our colloquium on Dialogue, Inclusion, and Democracy (DID) this semester. Wheatley’s writing offers a simple, but profound message: conversations can change the world. This transformational process entails a diverse group of people learning to listen to one another. Yet, as she acknowledges, the practices of eloquent listening and genuine dialogue are acts of hope in the face of an uncertain future. In fact, not knowing is where working for social change actually begins. Wheatley recognizes that, “We have to be willing to let go of our certainty and expect ourselves to be confused for a time.” These insights feel especially prescient for teaching in spring 2020 in the midst of the current global pandemic. Confusion and uncertainty are paramount. Communities across the globe are being asked to physically isolate in unprecedented ways in response to COVID-19. At Providence College this has meant an abrupt mid-semester shift to online learning.

Teaching online in this time of uncertainty has brought about many changes in how we engage with one another. Our communication is remote, time together is across screens, and connections are strained.

But in a time of physical distancing, social solidarity is more important than ever. “In addition to social distancing,” Eric Klinenberg notes, “Societies have often drawn on another resource to survive disasters and pandemics: social solidarity, or the interdependence between individuals and across groups.” And core courses where all of our students are situated, such as the Development of Western Civilization (CIV) Program, must respond by teaching for social solidarity. Given our backgrounds and educational training, we never expected to be teaching in CIV. Yet, the experience has been a transformational experience for both of us. We have been able to collaborate with a facilitation team that includes engaging and brilliant leaders, such as Perla Castillo Calderon and Kalan Lewis. And our DID CIV class is among the most genuinely diverse and creative groups of students we have encountered.

As a course about diversity and civic engagement, we made efforts to put these ideas into practice with our students. We spent time early in the semester developing a community agreement and class rituals as a way to build relationships and trust among the diverse learners. Thus, the values collectively developed in early sessions, such as “embrace differences,” “practice active listening,” and “recognize your own ignorance,” are embedded in our teaching practices. For instance, classes began with community building icebreaker activities, along with announcements about relevant community events. Facilitation is shared. And students have been asked to not only engage with reading, reflecting, and writing about texts such as White Fragility, but also working in teams on “dialogue in action” projects through the Community DID Walls in Feinstein Academic Center and the Center @ Moore Hall.

Quincy Bevely Assistant Vice PresidentHarkins Hall 312

If you have any ideas on programming you would like to see on the campus, or a potential collaboration outside of the college please contact diversity@providence.edu.

The last class session before spring break offered the culmination of these efforts. We shared food from a local Dominican restaurant, and then the first student facilitation group led a “story circle” dialogue on mental health and well-being, asking students to share stories about the stresses of mental health in their educational experiences. In the circle of face-to-face learners, many students grew emotional. Students shared stories of their own struggles with isolation, anxiety, and depression; as well as stories of resilience, perseverance, and solidarity.

We didn’t realize at that moment that these tensions between isolation and solidarity would grow exponentially over the coming months along with the deadly coronavirus.

Following spring break, we continued our learning community remotely via Zoom. Engagement in these subsequent sessions has been remarkable on some levels, including the continuation of (now virtual) icebreakers which have invited students to offer updates from our new shelter-in-place reality. We hear gratefulness from many for time with family, along with creative efforts to learn new things. Students have shared experiences filled with hopefulness and grace: a first Easter with a father who normally is stationed overseas in the military, as well as participation from a student attending class virtually while making food deliveries to elders in her community.

But the shift to online learning is not without real struggles. Students articulate that they are feeling overwhelmed with deep levels of financial and social stress, and are also sometimes bored. They deeply crave meaningful community connections and are concerned about an uncertain future. Conversations tend to be more surface level than our face-to-face encounters, while inequity among learners is pervasive. Students from our class, for instance, are providing childcare for siblings; working as frontline workers; losing current and summer employment; caring for family members with COVID-19; and worrying about tuition payments as family members lose jobs and income. There are also more mundane, but significant challenges with inequity in connectivity, spatial, and technological access as students share laptops with limited Wi-Fi in tight quarters.

Even with these challenges, student-led facilitations are continuing as a mechanism for the learning outcomes of the class (but for shorter durations). Student facilitation teams have led online dialogues on social class, xenophobia, public policy, and patient care and treatment--grounded in how students are experiencing the pandemic. Several teams are curating short videos--such as “I Stay Home” and “How We Are Staying Busy”--and one team is producing public art representing life after quarantine. The DID Wall has also moved completely virtual via Instagram (follow @pcdidwall) with dialogue framed around favorite activities during quarantine, encouraging words for graduating seniors, and hopes for post-pandemic life.

Teaching during the pandemic is demonstrating that the challenges from COVID-19 go beyond the drastic health and economic consequences we are confronting; they are also social. In this time of crisis, courses like our DID CIV colloquium have a responsibility to respond to the coming “social recession.” This involves offering support and mentorship, while being honest about our own vulnerabilities and uncertainty. It means creating space for students to talk about their mental and physical well-being, while also providing time for creatively building community, making connections, and fighting for equity. And ultimately, this process of teaching for social solidarity cannot be on the margins of the educational experience. We need to continue to “turn to one another” through conversations--at a distance of at least six feet apart--in order to restore hope to an uncertain future.

The Graduating Class Reflecting on their Time During COVID-19

Kelsey Christianson

When I look back on my Providence College experience I cannot help but feel grateful and blessed. PC has given me a new family that I will forever cherish, my voice that empowers me to help others, and my faith that will continue to grow. I never knew I needed these things in my life, but without them I do not know who I would be. I am eternally indebted to Providence College for all it has given me and will continue to give me in the future.

I’ve always been a firm believer that everything happens for a reason. My college experience wasn’t even close to linear and had more than my fair share of ups and downs, but it taught me the importance of sticking out. My biggest fear going into college was being the new kid and fitting in, because I had never changed schools before. I had to believe in myself and walk into situations that no other student in my position did, with groups like Brotherhood and Horizons, that allowed me to really find my place at PC. If I had let what other people think stop me from being who I was, I would never have made the connections that I have today, or possess the outlook on the world that I have without the acceptance I gained in those groups. I encourage everyone to want to be different, and want to see how far they can stretch themselves, because for me, being different was what helped me to fit in the most.

My time at Providence College has been both challenging and rewarding. I am thankful that the PC community has blessed me with numerous mentors that continue to believe in me and guide me through my journey. My years at PC consist of opportunities that have allowed me to grow as an individual and a leader.

Michael Fanelli

Anabel DePena

What I most appreciate most about Providence College, is the norm to be an extraordinary student. I remember being on college tours and meeting tour guides who ran organizations and started initiatives on campus yet I never did see myself having so much of an impact. After being at PC for a semester, I was amazed at how many students of color did exactly that and launched campus wide movements. This motivated me to see the potential for myself and I soon earned the titles of St. Joes President, Suites RA, Peer Mentoring Program Coordinator, and the owner of my own business.“If you want something that you never had, you gotta do something that you’ve never did” (Brandon George Dickinson).

Almost four years ago, I remember a boy packing his belongings and loading the vehicle with great excitement. Before he knew it, he was reading WELCOME TO FRIARTOWN while driving on 95N. Upon entering McDermott Hall for the first time, this boy asked himself, “Is this actually happening?” The boy from four years ago would often experience the fear of failure. However, I am thankful that Providence College has allowed me to occasionally fail and experience minor setbacks as a first-generation student, leader, and friend. Overcoming these obstacles contributed to my transition from a boy to man. However, this would not have been possible had Providence College not push me to step outside of my comfort zone. Through the new and sometimes uncomfortable experiences presented at PC, I have gained the confidence to try new things, accept challenges, and most of all accepting the idea of failure. I no longer fear failing like the boy who did four years ago. Instead, I fear not failing! Through failure, I have learned more about myself and willing to accept challenges that will lead to an even better person.

If Providence College has taught me anything it is that students can make positive change. By surrounding yourself with people that support you, but more importantly, challenging yourself to speak with people who might disagree with you, you open yourself and others to growth and change. I am extremely grateful to have been a part of SHEPARD. The people I met and experiences I have had with the organization made me a more compassionate and driven person. SHEPARD truly taught me the power my voice had. I want underclassmen to know there are so many ways to learn and grow on campus, so put yourself out there because you never know what organization will change your life for the better.

I am very grateful for all the amazing support I got from SHEPARD and my close friends here at PC. They have all helped me grow and become who I am today. I am super excited to see the continuous work that will come from the next set of students!

Roody Jean

Andre Rogers

Christina Sloan

Ricardo Guzman

Resources During the PandemicWe recognize that people may have different priorities during this challenging time. Here are some resources that may answer some of your crucial questions and concerns.

Impact of Coronavirus on LGBTQ Communityhttps://www.outsports.com/2020/4/3/21204564/coronavirus-lgbtq-people-impact-more-se-vere-than-general-population

Resources for DACA, TPS and DED in Rhode Island:http://www.economicprogressri.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/4-8-COVID-English-DACA-TPS-DED-Fact-Sheet.pdf

Resources for Undocumented Immigrants in Rhode Island:http://www.economicprogressri.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/4-8-COVID-English-Undocument-ed-Fact-Sheet.pdf

Ten Equity Implications of Coronavirus COVID-19 Outbreak in the United Stateshttps://naacp.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Ten-Equity-Considerations-of-the-Coronavirus-COVID-19-Outbreak-in-the-United-States_Version-2.pdf

The Coronavirus Pandemic and The Racial Wealth Gaphttps://www.americanprogress.org/issues/race/news/2020/03/19/481962/coronavirus-pandemic-ra-cial-wealth-gap/

I can truly say that my six years at Providence College helped shape me into the man that I am today. I started college with three of my high school friends and shy, and left as an outgoing individual with an abundance of great friends. This was thanks to great mentors, family support, a multitude of opportunities, and my ever-growing passion to become a better version of myself. I sincerely appreciate every organization that I was an active member in, as they created a caring environment that supported me unconditionally. During my time pursuing my master’s in higher education, I have met even more amazing people who have challenged me to grow and become a professional in every sense of the word. To all the underclassmen I would like to say, seize every opportunity, as you never know if something will change your entire life for the better. I would like to thank everyone who I have met on this incredible journey and give a special shout-out to my family, friends, colleagues in my master’s program and the Class of 2017. PC will forever be a part of me, and I am happy to state that fact.

A Word With Kalan

Kalan Lewis

A Poem for ThoughtAlone

By Maya Angelou

Lying, thinkingLast night

How to find my soul a homeWhere water is not thirstyAnd bread loaf is not stoneI came up with one thing

And I don’t believe I’m wrongThat nobody,But nobody

Can make it out here alone.

Alone, all aloneNobody, but nobody

Can make it out here alone.

There are some millionairesWith money they can’t use

Their wives run round like bansheesTheir children sing the blues

They’ve got expensive doctorsTo cure their hearts of stone.

But nobodyNo, nobody

Can make it out here alone.

Alone, all aloneNobody, but nobody

Can make it out here alone.

Now if you listen closelyI’ll tell you what I know

Storm clouds are gatheringThe wind is gonna blow

The race of man is sufferingAnd I can hear the moan,

‘Cause nobody,But nobody

Can make it out here alone.

Alone, all aloneNobody, but nobody

Can make it out here alone.

Things to Try!

Streaming Services and Cable Shows

Nature Walks

Virtual Field Trips (Zoos, Museums, Aquariums, etc.)

Try Cooking a New Meal

Paint, Draw or Create Art of Any Kind

Create a Playlist for Someone You Aren’t Able to See in Person

Learn a New Dance Move

Create an Indoor Workout Routine

Video Chats with Family and Friends

Watch Online Performances by Musical Artists

Play Games with Your Friends (Virtual Board Games, Video Games, Virtual Reality, etc.)

Reach Out to Someone You Haven’t Seen in a While

For more resources, please go to our website at: https://institutional-diversity.providence.edu/

To update us on activities that can be done during these challenging times please contact us at: diversity@providence.edu.