A senior theatre and performance student started a new Diversity and Inclusion Council in the School of Theatre.S
Taha Khan, theatre and performance senior, started the Council to create more opportunities for minority students and ensure all students feel they have a voice. When other students see people like Khan taking action and ensuring students’ voices are heard, it inspires them to do the same.
Students cannot expect things to change unless they speak out and take action to make the changes themselves. However, students should remember to go through the proper channels, like Khan did, and talk to leadership respectfully when expressing their concerns. If there are not open lines of communication between both parties, it is much more difficult to bring about change.
The School of Theatre has been facilitating workshops and bringing in guest speakers to help educate students about creating a more open and accepting environment. Officials hosted talkbacks with people from the community after almost every performance of “To Kill a Mockingbird” to discuss the impact of the show and educate the audience about the subject matter
Officials also facilitated two mandatory talkbacks for School of Theatre students. The first was on Oct. 22 and was hosted by Jeff Cochran, head of stage and production management, and Kanika Brown, director of career services. The second Talkback was on Oct. 27 and featured Denise Lee from Change the Perception in Dallas. It is important that School of Theatre officials continue to facilitate these conversations and help educate students on the importance of representation and giving minority students a voice.
Students must continue to support and encourage these opportunities to educate themselves about diversity and inclusion. Although it can be difficult to talk about these subjects, it is important for students to educate themselves about the struggles minority students may face.
Students should also actively learn about other cultures’ histories and practices and join minority students in celebrating their heritages. Student organizations like the Black Student Association and the Jewish Stars invite students of all backgrounds to attend meetings or events like BSA’s Black Out event or the Jewish Stars’ annual Passover event.
Students should continue to support Khan’s efforts in making the School of Theatre a more diverse and accepting place and educate themselves about other cultures.
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