Resources
ODEI recognizes that this current moment has prompted important community concerns surrounding xenophobia, accessibility, health disparities and equity — in higher education and beyond. Please see below for a list of regularly updated resources related to equity and inclusion.
Reckoning with Racism
The past few weeks have been painful, as the United States has been forced to reckon with appalling acts of continued racism and injustices. We have mourned the loss of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and Ahmaud Arbery and countless others who have been victims of violence. We have watched as thousands have taken to the streets to fight for a more just and equitable world.
In addition to the resources listed in this section, ODEI will be hosting regular community conversations with Simmons students, faculty, staff and alumni in the weeks ahead.
Resources
COVID-19: Explore resources relating to issues involving COVID-19 including financial assistance, where to access free or affordable food, LGBTQ specific services and more.
COVID-19 Hate Crimes Act: To facilitate the expedited review of COVID–19 hate crimes, and for other purposes.
Anti Racism: These resources take you beyond self-education and connect readers to action and advocacy.
The Role of White Individuals in Community Engagement: Find ways to support members of marginalized groups and how to use your privilege to help others.
Police Reform and Abolition: One cannot talk about system change toward being anti-racist without serious consideration of undoing the culture of policing and understanding its origins. It is also important to acknowledge that many communities have moved toward a productive model of community policing.
Talking to Children About Race: Parents must engage their children of any age in a conversation about what the current civil rights movement means for the country and for them. Historical context is important but it is also important to reassure young people that they are safe and everything will be okay. That includes growing and learning together and that we are richer when we are more inclusive.
Equity in the Classroom: This section provides resources for faculty attempting to create equity focused and inclusive curriculum. Explore resources on health inequity, colonialism, immigration and more.
Mental Health & Self Care: Now, more than ever, it is important to take care of your mental and emotional well-being. Check out tips on maintaining this essential aspect of your life, especially while participating in activism work.
Accessibility Services: The Office of Accessibility Services (OAS) is providing remote virtual support during the COVID-19 pandemic and ensures that continuous support will be available to students, parents, staff, and faculty throughout this period.
Activism@Simmons: Explore the history of activism at Simmons University through an interactive online exhibit. See how Simmons' students made advocacy integral to their curriculum and solidified Simmons as a place where change can happen.
Black History@Simmons: Delve into the history of the first Black students at Simmons and explore Black history over the University's years. Read how student activism created integral community changes and how the University still strives to make Simmons an inclusive space.
Beatley Library Activism 101 Guide: What does activism truly mean? This guide seeks to answer that question and more through videos, articles, books and infographics, to name a few. This guide provides comprehensive resources on the foundation of activism and where you might stand in your own activism journey.
Beatley Library Anti-Oppression Guide: The Simmons Library presents a guide to navigating anti oppression frameworks through a social justice lens. This includes information about diversity, inclusion, and anti oppression strategies and theories. A must read for the Simmons community.
The Consortium of Higher Education LGBT Resource Professionals: This member based organization provides support and resources to those in higher education working towards the betterment the experiences of those of diverse sexual orientations. Through the consortium, you can receive networking opportunities with like minded individuals, educational and professional development resources and collaborative engagement - all with the mission to advocate for more inclusive practices within a social and racial justice lens.