Intersections: Diversity Certificate Program Newsletter Fall 2014

Fall 2014 Volume 1, Issue 2

Intersections

Letter from the Diversity Certificate Program Advisor

Contact the DCP Advisor,

Dr. Jennifer Miller at:

[email protected]

817-272-6273

For more information about

the DCP:

www.uta.edu/dcp/

www.facebook.com/uta.dcp

THE DIVERSITY CERTIFICATE PROGRAM—THE SCHOOL OF SOCIAL WORK—UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT ARLINGTON

Greetings from Diversity Certificate Program (DCP)!

At the DCP our motto is: “It’s a big world – learn about it!” We’re facilitating

student learning by creating a community of students, faculty, and staff committed

to social justice and diversity. This semester the DCP co-sponsored UTA’s inaugu-

ral UBUNTU Social Justice Conference and teamed up with the Minor in Disability

Studies to introduce UTA students to NeuroQueer activist Lindsey Anderson .

We’re enthusiastic about continuing to create cross-campus relationships that aid

students in learning about diverse identities and cultures.

The DCP accepted its first class Spring 2014. The program currently boasts 95

students drawn from 18 major degree programs including Physics, Social Work,

Interdisciplinary Studies, Sociology, and Business. We anticipate 15-20 graduates

this semester ! The DCP’s impressive growth demonstrates the investment UTA

students, faculty, and staff have in understanding and celebrating human diversity.

The second issue of Intersections is brought to you by the DCP Advisor and the

DCP Newsletter Advisory Board Committee, which is comprised of several DCP

students who worked with UTA students, faculty, and staff to collect content for

this issue.

In this issue:

Faculty and Staff Profiles

Event Reviews

DCP Student Profiles

Diversity at UTA and

Student Organization Profiles

I am honored to work closely with students, staff, and faculty committed to diver-

sity and social justice. Together we are building a vibrant community of learners

drawn from across the disciplines and united by an investment in diversity!

In Maverick Sprit,

Jennifer Miller, PhD

Diversity Certificate

Program. This is my

last semester and I had

some 'wiggle' room

with the classes I en-

rolled in. So the Diver-

sity Certificate Pro-

gram was a great fit

because it is so flexi-

ble.

How do you

think being in the

DCP will benefit

you in your future

career?

The DCP will look

great on my resume

and it will make me

stand out from other

candidates when I ap-

ply for jobs. Not many

schools offer some-

thing similar to this

program so I am very

fortunate I decided

to pursue this certifica-

tion.

What DCP courses

are you taking now?

What aspects of

human diversity are

being explored?

I am currently taking

Sex, Gender and Cul-

ture. We talk about

the change of the

'stereotypical' role of

women and how over-

time the role of males

has changed as well. I

am actually taking all

the required courses

this semester and my

experience with the

DCP has expanded my

idea of what 'diversity'

really is. In my Human Be-

havior and Diverse Popula-

tions class we are learning

about gender roles and last

week we talked about refu-

gees and immigrants. All

these classes combined give

me a new idea of how

broad diversity really is.

By Ashley Livingston, Political Science and Women’s and Gender Studies

UT Arlington’s Student Association for Gender Equality (SAGE) seeks to pro-

mote gender equality, raise awareness of women’s issues, expose modern ine-

quality among genders, and volunteer within the community. Co-President, India

Garms, notes that SAGE also serves as a comfortable outlet for all students

while exploring and expressing inequities amongst genders. The Student Associ-

ation for Gender Equality partners with the Women’s & Gender Studies Program at UTA to promote

student involvement during campus activities and to solicit awareness. SAGE’s membership base, alt-

hough certainly open to all University of Texas at Arlington students, is primarily composed of upper-

classmen and those who major in Liberal Arts fields.

Meetings held the first Wednesday of each month from 12-1 in Preston Hall Room 110.

DCP Student Profile: Meet Ana!

Spotlight on Student Organizations: SAGE

Page 2 Intersections

Ana Pina, University Studies

What made you de-

cide to study diver-

sity?

I didn’t choose to

study diversity; it

chose me. I was en-

rolled in a class and

got an email saying it

met one of the re-

quirements for the

“I didn’t

choose to

study diversi-

ty; it chose

me.”


Professor Andrade has a PhD

in Feminist Aesthetics and

Theater Pedagogy from the

University of Texas at Dallas.

How has your personal

experience and re-

se a r c h / e duc a t i o na l

background in diversity

prepared you to effec-

tively teach your stu-

d e n t s ?

I grew up in Hawaii, which

is a racially and ethnically

diverse place. It's not that

there are no racial or eth-

nic tensions in Hawaii, but

people really do seem to

get along for the most part

--and the culture has be-

come a rich stew made up

of traditions and food and

even language contributed

by everyone who lives

there. I guess what I took

from those foundational

experiences is a comfort

with--and an expectation

of--heterogeneity in all

aspects of my life. How-

ever, the diversity that

marked my childhood did

not extend to gender

equality in my traditional,

religious household (we

were in Hawaii because

my dad was a mission-

ary). It was not until I

went to college (a con-

servative religious univer-

sity in Oklahoma) that I

took a Women's Litera-

ture course and felt my

brain and heart blossom-

ing like desert wildflow-

ers in a rainstorm. Alt-

hough I was a theatre

major, I think it may have

been that course that

had the most impact on

my life. I went on to do

a Humanities course in

grad school that let me

pursue American Wom-

en's History and Feminist

Theatre Pedagogy be-

cause I just could never

g e t e n o u g h !

I think it's how funda-

mental these personal

experiences have been to

my understanding of who

I am that fuels my pas-

sion to give my students

their own powerful

"aha!" moments of self-

discovery or of recogni-

Faculty Profile: Dr. Brandi Andrade

Page 3 Volume 1, Issue 2

tion and connec-

tion. I'm trying to

'pay it forward.'

How do you ap-

proach teaching

d i v e r s i t y ?

The most frequent

thought I had in all of

my diversity-focused

courses, as both an

undergraduate and as

a graduate student,

was "HOW could no

one have told me this

before now???" So

"exposure" is my

w a t c h w o r d .

How have you han-

dled situations in

which students do

not accept con-

cepts or ideas of

diversity that you

are teaching? For

instance, if cover-

ing an idea goes

against a student's

religious ideology,

how do you bal-

ance respect for

that religion while

pushing academic

boundaries within

the classroom?

I think exposure to

the world of ideas is

what one comes to col-

lege for. Most of the

world's religions pro-

mote peace, generosity,

and tolerance towards

one another, so there's

not really much of a

legitimate conflict be-

tween religion and the

challenge to oppression

promoted by a focus on

diversity. A lot of what

fuels the problems we

have with one another

is a fear of difference,

and exposure can help

with that. However,

there's no rule that says

knowing about some-

thing has to change your

life! What may be

'raindrops in a desert' to

one student may be

'water off a duck's back'

to another. And that's

all right, too. It seems

to me the greater risk is

in not trying.


By Nicolette Aguon,

Sociology

Underwater Dreams is a

documentary about four

teenage boys and the

adversity they faced

while going after a

dream. The teenagers

are on a team putting

together an aquatic ro-

bot to go to a national

competition. Labeled as

the underdog, this high

school team innovated

and excelled in a college

level competition. They

went on to win the

competition, beating out

the top-ranked colleges

who were predicted to

win. I absolutely loved

everything about this

film. This documentary

showed the adversity

these individuals faced,

but it also showed the

hope they gave to the

students after them at

their high school. I

would definitely recom-

mend this film for any-

one to see. This film

shows people it does

not matter what your

background is or where

you are from for you to

go on and create a life

worth living and make a

difference in the world.

Event Reviews: Heart Warming or Heart Breaking? Two Reviews of Underwater Dreams


Underwater Dreams,

directed by Mary Mazzio,

was screened at UTA as

part of Hispanic Heritage

Month.


By Fernando Adame, Sociology and Mexican American Studies

Underwater Dreams is a documentary about four sons of undocumented immigrants who come from a very

poor High School in Phoenix, Arizona. They enter an underwater robotics competition sponsored by

NASA and the Office of Naval Research. This ragtag high school team of undocumented Mexican boys did

what no one thought possible, they won the competition by beating the engineering powerhouse MIT. The

sad part of this story is that due to their undocumented status, they cannot apply for college scholarships.

This country will pay the consequences by not allowing these young intelligent boys to attend college and

become citizens of the only country they know, their home, America.

Dr. Watson is Director of the

Women’s and Gender Studies

Program and Associate Profes-

sor of Spanish. She received

her PhD in Hispanic Literature

from the University of Tennes-

see-Knoxville. Her book, The

Politics of Race in Panama: Afro-

Hispanic and West Indian Liter-

acy Discourses of Contention is

now available.


experience and research/

educational background

in diversity prepared you

to effectively teach your

students?

My research is on black iden-

tity in Latin America. Specifi-

cally, I research Afro-

Panamanian literature and I

recently published a book

(The Politics of Race in Panama:

Afro-Hispanic and West Indian

Literary Discourses of Conten-

tion ) on the development of

Faculty Profile: Dr. Sonja S. Watson


literary blackness in Panama.

My research examines how

blackness in Latin America is

often sacrificed for a national

identity that promotes ho-

mogeneity and whiteness. In

the classroom, I look at a

variety of texts that reflect

this concept. I present liter-

ary texts, film, and musical

lyrics that illustrate this phe-

nomenon.

How do you approach

teaching diversity?

I approach diversity in the

same way that I would ap-

proach any other topic in the

classroom. Diversity is a part

of life and it is a part of the

human experience.

How can students apply

the concepts they learn,

in regards to diversity, to

both their personal and

professional lives? How

can these concepts pre-

pare them for not only

the workforce, but daily

interactions with diverse

people as well?

Understanding diversity in

one context, in this instance

Latin America, allows stu-

dents to think about diversi-

ty in other contexts as well. I

teach from a historical and

cultural perspective, thus

providing students with a

knowledge base to understand

and appreciate other cultures,

nationalities, and racial groups.

The United States is a multi-

racial, multi-lingual, and multi-

cu l tura l country . Th i s

knowledge base can only en-

hance student interactions in

the workplace.

How have you handled

situations in which stu-

dents do not accept con-

cepts or ideas of diversity

that you are teaching?

My job is not for students to

accept what I am teaching.

Instead, I want to open their

eyes to different way of think-

ing, viewing, and perceiving the

world around them.


Diversity at UTA by Laurie Mitchell


The University of Texas at Arlington provides students with many opportunities to learn

about diverse identities and cultures through cultural and educational events sponsored by Multi-

cultural Affairs, academic programs and departments, and student organizations. UTA also encourages

the study of diversity through a variety of minors that highlight aspects of diversity. Academic opportu-

nities to study diversity include minors in Disability Studies, African American Studies, Mexican

American Studies, and Women’s and Gender Studies. Of course, students may also earn a cer-

tificate in Diversity Studies!


The Mexican American Studies Program was founded in

the mid-1990s to facilitate student learning about Mexican

Americans and other Latino populations. Learn more:

www.uta.edu/cmas

Maria Schrimpf, a current student at UTA pursuing

a minor in Mexican American Studies answers a few

questions about the minor:

Why are you getting a minor in Mexican Amer-

ican Studies?

A minor in Mexican American Studies is an essential

complement to my Spanish major since learning the

prescriptive rules of a language is just not enough. In

order to fully develop knowledge of the language you

need to know the people who speak the language you

are learning, the geographical locations where this lan-

guage is spoken, and the socio-cultural factors that

affect the communication process.

How can you use your minor in everyday situa-

tions?

Since the Mexican American community is thriving in

most of the Southern states knowledge on this subject

empowers me to better manage everyday interac-

tions with the growing Mexican American/Hispanic

community. Demonstrating knowledge and under-

standing of their culture has given me the trust and

respect of the Mexican American community I in-

teract with at my job every day.

Spotlight on Mexican American Studies

UTA Multicultural Affairs orga-

nized Open Mic Night present-

ing Dr. Ignacio Ruiz-Perez for

Hispanic Heritage Month. The

event was held in the UC Río

Grande Ballroom, which was

decorated with displays

showing the geography,

cultural and ethnic diversi-

ty, and traditional dishes of

Spanish speaking countries

including Argentina , Spain,

Puerto Rico and Mexico.

At the event Dr. Ruiz-

Perez read poems from his

book “Navegaciones”, win-

ner of the Regional Poetry

Prize Rodolfo Figueroa

2004. While Dr. Ruiz-

Perez was reading his po-

ems in Spanish non- Span-

ish speaking audience

members were able to

read the same poems on

a screen. Dr. Ruiz-Perez

's “Navegaciones” has

been translated to English

as “The Sign of The

Crow”. During his

presentation Dr. Ruiz -

Perez dedicated a poem

to his wife and their

daughter who were in the

audience. After his read-

ing Dr. Ruiz -Perez invit-

ed the public to come to

the stage and read poems

by authors of their

choice.

Event Review: Open Mic—Featuring Dr. Ruiz-Perez by Maria Schrimpf, Spanish and Mexican American Studies

Student Profile: Meet LaTesha!



LaTesha Alexander, Social Work

What made you want to study diversity?

I chose to study diversity because I felt it would be

beneficial in the Social Work field. Social Workers

deal with so many different cultures and it will help if you are more aware of others cultures, needs, reli-

gions, beliefs, etc...

How do you think being in the DCP will benefit you in your future career?

I feel when potential employers see this certification next to my name they will know I took the time to get

certified in diversity, so I must be truly passionate about working with diverse population.

How has being in the DCP changed the way you think about diversity in your daily life?

Actually it's only enhanced the way I was already thinking.. I am all about "US" and "ALL" — being equal on

every level. "US" being all cultures and races and "ALL" meaning no one left out of the loop — from the

refugees to the rich. We should never think we are better than the next. We are all one paycheck away

from suffering, believe it or not. My race is no better than the next and my beliefs are not greater.

so many stereotypical

ideas about people of

color and people of vari-

ous gender identities. I

believe studying diversity

can help me understand

the many issues people

face in the world and

how I can help them

cope with those issues.

How do you think be-

ing in the DCP will

benefit you in your

future career?

The DCP will help me

understand how to deal

with my clients’ problems

along with coming up

with solutions for differ-

ent situations. As a social

work major, I will inter-

act with different diverse

groups since Texas is a

diverse state. The DCP

will give me an oppor-

tunity to learn about

different ethnic groups so

I can relate to my clients

on a level that will help

meet their needs.

What DCP courses

are you currently tak-

ing? What aspects of

human diversity and

social justice are you

leaning about?

I actually completed Dis-

ability and Gender in

Spring 2014. In DCP clas-

ses I am learning the dif-

ferent oppressive behav-

iors that many people

endure, the theories that

will help me understand

why behaviors continue

to change over time, and

the different policies that

were made because peo-

ple fought for what they

believed in.

How has being in the

DCP changed the way

you think about diver-

sity in your daily life?

The Diversity Certificate

Program has helped me

cope with the issues I

face every day being an

African American wom-

an. I now understand the

importance of diversity.

The DCP opened my

eyes to a whole new

world of culture.

On Thursday, October 16th, UTA’s Women's and Gender Studies Program sponsored Lunafest.

Lunafest was created in 2000 by LUNA, the makers of nutrition bars for women. Lunafest is a film

festival featuring short films made by women. The festival consisted of 8 short movies including:

“Tryouts”, “Lady Parts” and “Chicas Day.” One of the audience’s favorites was “Tryouts,” which was

about Nayla, a Muslim American teenager, who knocks down prejudice to become part of her high

school cheerleading squad. Another movie, “Rubies” was given a big round of applause. I am proud

to say that “Rubies” was made by UTA student Lizette Barrera. In her films Lizette aims to make

people think about their lives and the consequences of their life choices. Lunafest surpassed my ex-

pectations! Since Lunafest is hosted every year I definitely recommend attending the 2016 Lunafest!

To learn more about UTA’s Women’s and Gender Studies Program see: http://www.uta.edu/womens-studies

DCP Student Profile: Meet Shandreca!

Event Review: Lunafest by María Schrimpf , Spanish and Mexican American Studies


Shandreca Gibson,

Social Work

What made you want

to study diversity?

I became interested in

diversity after I witnessed


Dr. Gutiérrez is Professor of

Political Science at UTA. Dr.

Gutiérrez founded the Center

for Mexican American Studies

in 1994. He has authored and

co-authored numerous books

and articles.


experience and re-

search /educat iona l




dents?

I have lived my life as the

"Other;" this practical expe-

rience coupled with theory

is a good background to

have.

How do you approach

teaching diversity?

Straight forward frank dis-

cussion beginning with "this

is not personal nor blaming

anyone in the here and

now.” We must look back-

wards in the mirror to see

forward.


the concepts they learn,

in regards to diversity,

to both their personal

and professional lives?

Practice what you learn and

don't preach until you mod-

el.



dents do not accept con-

cepts or ideas of diversi-

ty that you are teaching?

Yes, every semester; some

activities are not negotiable

there are other instructors

and other classes. My class

requirements must be

met. Tolerance and respect

for others is written as a

mandate in the syllabus for

every class. I strive for a low

-risk environment for class

discussion but will not let

students hide behind their

religion to not complete as-

signments; they can do oth-

er extra work if necessary.

Faculty Profile: Dr. José Angel Gutiérrez



Dr. Gutiérrez’s publications

include A Gringo Manual on

How to Handle Mexicans

(2001) and a Chicano Man-

ual on How to Handle Grin-

gos (2003).

The well-attended event provided students with the

opportunity to meet new people while learning about

diverse identities and cultures from a social justice per-

spective that emphasized social consciousness and polit-

ical action.

Many DCP students attended the event and have gener-

ously shared their experiences (and pictures) for the

newsletter!

This was an amazing event that exposed everyone to different cultures and the meaning of diversity. What I

loved most about this event was the meaning behind it, the meaning of Ubuntu, which is “I Am Who I Am

Because Of Who We Are”. This says a lot and it touches my soul in ways I can’t describe. I had a chance to

play the African drums and see what it was like to be part of the African culture. I also had a chance to meet

Lee Mun Wah who brought tears to my eyes because he wants to make a difference in the lives of each gen-

eration and for UTA. I am more than excited that I attended this event because I had a chance to meet oth-

er students who I have never met before. Hearing their stories and experiences made me realize that I ’m

not alone in this world and that I have peers who are in the same boat as me. I believe we should have this

event every year because I think if we do, then we can get more people to see that all it takes is a group of

people to speak up and to send out the message on how to come together as one.

Featured Event: UBUNTU Social Justice Conference

Shandreca Gibson’s Experience at UBUNTU


Multicultural Affairs, in conjunction with the

Office of International Education, the Leader-

ship Center, and the Diversity Certificate Pro-

gram, hosted UTA’s inaugural UBUNTU So-

cial Justice Conference on Saturday, October

18th, 2014.

100 UTA students gathered to enjoy a cultural

performance by Baba Kwasi, an African Drum

and Percussion expert, a keynote address by

renowned documentary film maker and diver-

sity trainer, Lee Mun Wah, and various infor-

mation sessions by UTA faculty, staff and stu-

dents.


The UNBUNTU Social Jus-

tice Conference was a very

enlightening learning experi-

ence. I learned about the in-

justice of racism and how we

can come together and com-

bat injustice starting with

taking care of each other. It

began with breakfast. We sat

with people we did not know

to get to know them. The

drum session with Baba Qua-

si joined all participants to-

gether with rhythm as the

universal language. Lee Mun

Wah gave heartbreaking sta-

tistics about the murders of

hate crime victims. He talked

about how many perpetra-

tors of hate crimes went un-

punished and the murders

unacknowledged as hate

crimes. That brought many to

tears. The breakout sessions

were informative and en-

sured that social workers and

anyone else interested in ad-

vocating for the racial and

Sharon Mahones’s Experience at UBUNTU


economic injustices of others

knew that the road we have

chosen to travel is long and the

fight is far from over. It was a

truly eye opening experience

and I am very glad I chose to be

a participant.

UNBUNTU: I AM WHO I AM

BECAUSE OF WHO WE ARE.


Baba Quasi Lee Mun Wah

The event was extremely exhilarating, empower-

ing, and thought provoking. We started with wise

words and drum sessions with Baba Kwasi. He

was very knowledgeable about the “Rhythm of

Life” and how we all contribute to it. He showed

us what each drum was made of and how to use

it. Once we started playing as a unit Baba Kwasi’s

enthusiasm for his art charged through the entire

room. The keynote speaker was Lee Mun Wah

who shared some ideas about “what stands be-

tween us” connecting with one another. He or-

chestrated several exercises and shared intimate

stories about his past in order for us to gain a

sense of connection with those around us. He

actually called me up to ring the bell to gain every-

one’s attention for the next set of instructions.

He joked that I was his newest Buddhist intern

and that he was going to shave my head. He was

very empowering with his words in saying that we

are the change and we can demand better treat-

ment for those within our society.

The Breakout Sessions were really thought provoking

for me. I attended two sessions hosted by Interdisci-

plinary Studies professors. They informed me that the

new central focus of the program is social justice. Each

of them gave me some useful information about the

program which has me pondering in that direction. All

three of the sessions I attended were engaging and

intriguing. Each one forced me to communicate with

those around me about important issues that should

be actively addressed in society.

All in all it was a great experience and it exceeded my

expectations. I look forward to more workshops

where I can engage with my peers and have influential

conversations about social justice and growth. I am

truly fortunate for the opportunity and eager to par-

ticipate more.

KeAmber Green’s Experience at UBUNTU



Tameshia Morgan’s Experience at UBUNTU


This was my first Social Justice Conference and I can definitely say that it was a learning

experience. Mr. Baba Kwasi took us back to basics by demonstrating that music is essential to

our everyday life. I performed with Mr. Baba Kwasi and my group on the various types of

drums; it was such an awesome experience. And then came the emotional part of my day

when Mr. Lee Mun Wah started to speak to us about diversity and racism. This particular

session touched my heart because he was able to get us out of our comfort zones to meet

new people. It was amazing because I had the opportunity to meet new people that I saw

everyday but never stopped to even say hello to as we headed to our different destinations. I

also had the greatest opportunity of a lifetime to speak about racism and diversity in this world

regarding me being an African-American but most of all being a woman in this society. Overall

this conference was a success. I conclude with the words of the late Nelson Mandela

UBUNTU, which means “I AM WHO I AM BECAUSE OF WHO WE ARE".

UBUNTU 2014 Conference Committee


Dr. Safisha Hill is Adjunct

Professor of African Ameri-

can Studies at UTA.


experience and re-

search /educat iona l




dents?

I have worked as an ad-

ministrator in such posi-

tions as Assistant Dean for

African American and Eth-

nic Student Affairs, Direc-

tor of the Center for Cul-

tural Diversity and de-

signed graduate as well as

undergraduate courses

focusing on multicultural-

ism and diversity.

How do you approach

teaching diversity?

I approach teaching diversity

from an ACCURATE histori-

cal perspective and that of

HONESTY. I do not sugar

coat anything in an attempt to

make others comfortable. In

order to talk about diversity

honestly, we often have to

move out of our comfort

zone


the concepts they learn, in

regards to diversity, to

both their personal and

professional lives?

When students understand

the ACCURATE historical

aspects of diversity. It opens

their eyes wider. When they

learn to think critically...it al-

lows them to engage in criti-

cal dialogue about critical is-

sues that surround diversity.

When they reach this level of

understanding, they can dis-

tinguish between reality and

stereotypical perspectives.

Then they have the ability

to be more effecting in their

daily professional and per-

sonal interactions with di-

verse people.



dents do not accept

concepts or ideas of di-

versity that you are

teaching?

I point to history. I remind

students that their beliefs

are often based on what

they have been TOLD

growing up and not what

they have learned. I ask stu-

dents what personal inter-

actions they had with a per-

son of a different faith. And

what, if any conversations

they have had regarding

faith. When we communi-

cate about our differences

we discover that we are not

truly that different. I en-

courage my students to

challenge their own beliefs

before judging someone

else.

Faculty Profile: Dr. Safisha Hill



The Women’s and Gender

Studies Program at UTA

was founded in the 1970s.

Students in the program

examine issues about

women and gender includ-

ing sex and sexuality, femi-

nism, and equal rights.

Women’s and Gender

Studies also hosts the

Women’s History Month

Lecture Series every spring.

Learn more: www.uta.edu/

womens-studies

Dr. Sonja S. Watson, Director

of Women’s and Gender Studies

at UTA, explains the importance

of the program:

What do you think Women’s

and Gender Studies has done

for its former/current stu-

dents?

The Women’s and Gender Stud-

ies program has provided its stu-

dents with a knowledge base to

confront contemporary women’s

and gender issues from an inter-

disciplinary perspective. The clas-

ses in our program explore social

norms and the ways in which

race, class, nationality, and history

shape gender identity. Students

develop an understanding of the

complex and sometimes contro-

versial issues that surround wom-

en and gender from a manifold of

faculty comprised of various disci-

plines.

Spotlight on Women’s and Gender Studies


Ashley Livingston, a student at UTA, answers questions about minoring in Women’s

and Gender Studies:

What do you plan to do with your minor?

I am currently a Political Science Major (Pre-Law) with dreams of either practicing law or running for

Senate. (Dream big, huh?) :) With either pursuit, my minor allows me to connect with women, of all

ages, and better assist their needs, whether in the court room or through legislation.

How do you think your minor is different from others?

My minor is different from others in the way that it not only addresses the way in which women have

navigated academic, political, economic, and social spheres throughout decades, but it highlights their

interactions and bouts with their male counterparts. This is important because in today's society I

believe, in some instances, women are still battling for equity with men.

What do you think you have gained from being in Women Studies?

From being in the Women’s and Gender Studies Program I have gained an entirely different perspec-

tive. The idea of what it means to study women and what they represent within society is often asso-

ciated with this stereotypical idea of feminism and that is not the case, at all. Although feminism is a

portion of women in history, their contributions and progression were often self-motivated. Femi-

nists are often represented negatively and it’s important that the true depiction is illustrated.


Dr. Alaimo is a Professor of English, Distinguished

Teaching Professor, and Coordinator of the Environ-

mental and Sustainability Studies (ESS) Minor at UTA.

For more information about the ESS minor see http://

www.uta.edu/english/alaimo/For%20ESS%20Minors%

20%28Environmental%20and%20Sustainability%

20Studies%29.html

One of my areas of professional expertise is in

feminist theory, which includes intersectional

analyses of race, class, and sexuality. I am also an

expert in multicultural American literatures.

I've taught many classes in women's literatures,

African-American literature, and Mexican-

American literature at UTA and am currently

teaching a course in LGBTQ literatures. For the

last decade my own research has focused on the

environmental humanities, including environmental

justice, which examines how race and class affect

environmental risks and benefits. My book Bodily

Natures: Science, Environment, and the Material

Self, included analyses of both how environ-

mental racism puts particular people at risk for

toxic exposure and how people with Multiple

Chemical Sensitivity must contend with ordi-

nary environments that are inaccessible for

them due to toxins. My interest in LGBTQ

issues intersects with my animal studies com-

mitments in an essay I wrote about "queer

animals." So, my professional areas of exper-

tise cut across many areas of diversity--race,

gender, sexuality, and disability, primarily. I

bring many theoretical paradigms and thorny

questions to the classroom. It's up to students

to figure out their own intellectual, personal,

and political positions.

Faculty Profile: Dr. Stacy Alaimo



Dr. Alaimo has authored and co-authored nu-

merous publications including Bodily Natures:

Science, Environment, and the Material Self

(2010) and Material Feminisms (2008) .

Event Review: UTA’s 2nd Annual Pride Week Drag Show by Arneshia Murphy, University Studies



Part of being a Social Worker is being able to work with all different

kinds of people from all different kinds of backgrounds. Without any kind

of knowledge about diversity, I would easily be able to understand people

that are like me, but studying diversity will help me be able to help peo-

ple who are different from me.

What DCP courses are you currently taking?

I am currently taking Introduction to Women’s and Gender Studies as

part of the Diversity Certificate Program. I’m learning a lot about how

men and women have been treated differently over the years and how

we are making strides to close the gap.


Being in the DCP has opened my eyes to the fact that diversity is a thing. I guess before being in the program I did-

n’t realize that people are so different. I’ve kind of been in my own little bubble and I’ve observed other people and

noticed that some of them may handle situations differently, but I didn’t realize that it was because people are

brought up differently and are taught different values and lifestyles.

On October 10th UTA hosted its 2nd Annual Pride

Week Drag Show hosted by Kiana Lee. It was a very

fun and funny event. The hostess, Kiana Lee, also host-

ed last year’s event. Kiana was in the Air Force, which

is something I want to do. She was great. She had a lot

of energy and was funny. The contestants did very

well; there were three queens and two kings. Like I

said, the drag show was very entertaining, but it re-

minded me that people shouldn’t be judged by their

appearance. They should be judged by their character.

It was nice to see people being who they want to be

and receiving support from people their own age, be-

cause it showed how much they were appreciated.


DCP Student Profile: Meet Sarah!

Sarah Keith, Social Work

What made you want to study diversi-

ty?

Having a knowledge of different cultures

provides a better understanding of the peo-

ple we encounter on a daily basis. Diversity

also allows you to develop an appreciation

for difference and see other people’s actions

from a different cultural perspective.

How do you think being in the DCP

will benefit you in your future career?

The DCP enable me to have the necessary

skills and insights to be able to effectively

communicate with individuals from different

backgrounds, perspectives, and abilities in my

work environment and in everyday life.

How has being in the DCP changed

the way you think about diversity in

your daily life?

Wow! The DCP has enhanced my perspec-

tive about diversity, because as a social work

major we learn how to be more socially

aware of differences in individuals and how

to respond accordingly; the DCP just com-

pliments the appreciation and recognition of

cultural difference. In my daily life, I notice

that I am more aware of diversity and social

justice issues; this has resulted in me thinking

critically and researching the issues rather

than accepting the media as a final and credi-

ble source.



DCP Student Profile: Meet Tameshia!

Tameshia Morgan, Social Work

Students for a Democratic Society (SDS) is a national student movement with roots in the

Civil Rights and anti-Vietnam war movement, we are united with hundreds of chapters

across high school and college campuses. We are not connected with any political party

and represent a united struggle of youth from many political and social backgrounds, win-

ning justice for students and working people. SDS is a space for people to share their rad-

ical politics with like-minded people, where the camaraderie of organizing in the student

movement creates lasting friendships.

We have been involved in educational events, discussions, protests. We also host a social-

ist book club which meets every Tuesday at 5:30PM in the UC Palo Duro Lounge.

Find us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SDSatUTA

Spotlight on Student Organizations: Students for a Democratic Society By

Jenny Nguyen

DCP Student Profile: Meet Kaylor!


What DCP courses are you currently tak-

ing?

Currently I am taking Race, Crime, and Justice,

which is a criminal justice class that deals with

the justice system and the disparities related to

race. We discuss topics that range from police

brutality and the use of deadly force to topics

about the death penalty. We talk about income

and wealth, and how it relates to crime between

races. This class is about the law and as you

begin to dive in you start to see the disparities

between races, including prison populations,

arrests, and convictions. I am also taking Intro-

duction to Women’s and Gender Studies, which

deals with women and the disparities they face.

This class discusses topics about women’s equal-

ity, equal pay, and the problem with patriarchy.

We talk about the differences in how men and

women communicate and why it’s important to

understand both. This class gives a new meaning

to women and it also makes you stop and think

about perceptions you have about women.

How has being in the DCP changed the

way you think about diversity in your daily

life?

I have always tried to understand people but

since being a part of DCP I realize it’s not only

important but necessary to respect diversity. I

see so many people who judge people who are

different from them but I never had the courage

to say something. Now that I have been around

diverse populations and heard stories of where

people have felt alone because no one ever

stood up for them I can say I won’t ever be that

person again. Edmund Burke once said, “The

only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is

that good men do nothing.” So in knowing that, I

will end by saying we all have a chance to make

this world a better place but we must be willing

to take that leap and stand up for justice for all.



Diversity has always interested me, the way we act, the way

we think, the way we look, and the way we behave. I enjoy

studying people and I understand that our differences are

what make us unique. In the field of social work I understand

that you will work with a variety of people that come from all

different walks of life. How you perceive differences could

determine the type of service you provide.

How do you think being in the DCP will benefit you in

your future career?

When you become educated on diversity you start looking

deeper to understand the people you are providing services

to. Without diversity training you run the risk of being biased

in your thinking, the example I give is “judging a book by its

cover.” When you operate with this type of mindset it ulti-

mately limits your effectiveness. We have to realize that eve-

ryone will experience pain, go through struggles, or hardships

but, the difference is how each person defines each situation.

My job is to promote wellbeing which can include minimizing

the pain a person feels, helping a person fight through a strug-

gle, or providing resources during hard times. So in order to

do that I have to be willing to learn what wellbeing is and how

it is defined on a case by case basis.

Kaylor Williams III, Social Work



Event Review: A Conversation on Bisexuality and Pansexuality

by Jessica Salzetti, Social Work

This event was an open discussion about bisexuality

and pansexuality. There was great honest and open

communication among the groups present. There was

also a very genuine energy within the room. I felt very

ignorant to the issues and different classifications of

the queer population. This event has opened my eyes

to a whole new demographic and different way of

looking at this specific group of people.

Learn more about LGBTQA Programs at UTA: http://www.uta.edu/lgbtqa/

Ashley Livingston, Political Science and Women’s and Gender Studies


I am biracial so diversity is something that I've always been accustomed to. Along with a personal connec-

tion, an Intro to Women's and Gender Studies Course with Dr. Jennifer Miller exposed me to how una-

ware I was of cultural diversity on a large scale. I was immediately intrigued and decided to study it fur-

ther. My area of study expands across such a vast array of people that I believe it is paramount that I gain

a strong understanding of different cultures and how they operate within society. In a nutshell, I'm very

intrigued with not only how I'm affected by diversity, but society as a whole.

How do you think being in the DCP will benefit you in your future career?

I am pursuing a career in law and politics. The law is an institution that pertains to everyone. However, in

some cases that approach differs. I think that by having a concrete understanding of diversity, and how we

are all affected by it, I will be able to adequately address the varying concerns and needs of those I come

into contact with.


Studying diversity has impacted my approach to every conversation that I have with people who have a

different culture, sexuality, race, or gender from me. I've learned that with a better awareness of these

varying backgrounds, I've been able to build strong rapports. I think being at UTA, and embracing its diver-

sity, has also allowed me to have a strong understanding of diversity and its prevalence within society.

DCP Student Profile: Meet Ashley!



Stephen Santa-Ramirez, Assistant Director

of Multicultural Affairs and LGBTQ Pro-

gram

What campus events is LGBTQ

Program responsible for?

The LGBTQA Program is an initiative

hosted by the Division of Student Af-

fairs, which is a part of the Multicultural

Affairs office. The Program provides

quality events and support services ded-

icated to cultivating a positive campus

environment for LGBT students, allies,

and others grappling with gender identi-

ty issues. The core functions of the

LGBTQA Program are to offer: 1) Edu-

cational Events, 2) Networking Activi-

ties, 3) Safe Zone Ally Training, and 4)

Anti-Bullying Education and Advocacy.

What value do you see studying

diverse identities including race

and gender might bring to people

working with LGBTQ popula-

tions?

There’s much value in anyone studying

to learn more about differences in

identities. It helps us grow into greater

individuals, learn more about our own

values and identities, and better know

how to appreciate and embrace differ-

ences.

Can you describe an experience

when knowledge of diverse identi-ties and cultures has helped you in

your position?

All the time. I wouldn’t be able to do

the work that I do in Multicultural Af-

fairs without knowing lots about di-

verse identity groups. One example is

working with a student who identifies

as transgender. By me knowing infor-

mation on the transition process, etc., I

was better able to converse with this

student in making sure they had the

resources they needed to persist in

their jobs and academically. One thing

in particular, was my knowledge of

trans* use of restrooms and how that

can be challenging many times to find a

place to use the rest room without

feeling judged or being discriminated

against.

Staff Profile: Stephen Santa-Ramirez

My name is Shandreca Gibson and I am from Greenwood,

Mississippi. I am 24 years old and I am married with 2 boys. I retired

from the army in December 2012 and moved to Texas with my

husband and kids. I was accepted into UTA and pursuing a bachelor’s

degree in social work. After, I am going to enter into the master’s

program to become a clinical social worker. I want to work with

patients who have mental disorders because many social workers are

helping children and families but not enough are helping patients with

mental disorders. Shandreca was responsible for staff profiles.



DCP Newsletter Advisory Board Student Profiles

Christina DeLuna is a senior majoring in Social Work. She is

the secretary and financial adviser of the UTA chapter of the Gay-

Straight Alliance. Christina intends to obtain her Master’s degree in

social work and work with LGBT youth. She hopes to establish an

LGBT shelter or resource center in the city of Fort Worth where

she is from. Christina was responsible for student profiles.

I am Maria Schrimpf. I was born in Argentina and came to the US

with my twin daughters, Ricca and Mimi 13 years ago. Here in Texas I

met my husband Josh whose family has been in Texas for 4 genera-

tions. We have a son , Tadeo, and two dogs, Sasha and Thor. In 2013 I

graduated from TCC with an Associate of Arts and transferred to

UTA. My major is Spanish with a minor in Mexican American Studies.

In addition of taking care of my family and being a student at UTA, I

work as a substitute teacher for HEB ISD. Everyday I come in touch

with diversity in every aspect of my life.

While taking classes at UTA, we share courses with students from dif-

ferent countries, different religious beliefs and different sexual orienta-

tion. When at work, bilingual, ESOL and inclusion programs guarantee

the right to learn for every student. Participation in the Diversity Cer-

tificate Program enhances my interest in social and multicultural affairs.

Maria was responsible for event reviews.



DCP Newsletter Advisory Board Student Profiles

Laurie Mitchell is currently a Senior at UTA,. She hopes

to graduate with a Bachelor's in Sociology next semester

(spring 2015). She plans on getting her Master's Degree in

Public Affairs or Sociology. She also hopes to eventually

work with the community and travel the world! Laurie

was responsible for Diversity at UTA, Spotlight on Mexican

American Studies, and Spotlight on Women’s and Gender

Studies.

Ashley Livingston is a Political Science major with a minor

in Women’s and Gender Studies. She plans on pursuing a ca-

reer in politics and law. Ashley was responsible for faculty

profiles.

For more information about the

DCP contact the DCP Advisor,

Dr. Jennifer Miller at:

[email protected] or 817-272-6273

Diversity Certificate Program

It's a big world - learn about it!

DCP OFFICE

School of Social Work

211 S. Cooper St.

Building A, Room 319D

and advanced critical thinking

skills.

The Diversity Certificate Pro-

gram requires 12– credit hours.

Students take courses in the

following diversity domains: 1)

Gender and Sexuality, 2) Racial

and Ethnic Relations, and 3)

Social and Economic Inequality.

In addition, they attend three

campus events that highlight

various aspects of diversity.

To learn more about the DCP

visit our official website:

www.uta.edu/dcp/

The Diversity Certificate Pro-

gram (DCP) is an interdiscipli-

nary certificate program de-

signed to increase undergradu-

ate students’ awareness of di-

versity and social justice issues.

The DCP provides students

with the skills to think critically

about racial and ethnic relations,

gender and sexuality, and social

and economic inequality. It en-

hances students’ scholarly train-

ing and career preparation by

providing students with the op-

portunity to develop cultural

sensitivity, diversity awareness,

* All current UTA undergraduate

students with a minimum 2.5 GPA

are eligible to apply.

About the Diversity Certificate Program

www.facebook.com/UTA.DCP

https://twitter.com/DCP_Advisor

Documents

Intersections: Diversity Certificate Program Newsletter Fall 2014