BY KATIE GOSS ’23
This week, the Student Government Association (SGA) senate meeting largely revolved around diversity and inclusion, the theme of the month. Before diving into this theme, senators were encouraged to speak up about any upcoming events or concerns going on with their organizations or residential halls.
Meeting attendees were asked to ponder the question, “What does diversity and inclusion look like here at MHC?”
Attendees were asked to text responses to a phone number and responses were projected on the screen in the Blanchard Great Room. Answers flowed in quickly.
Students talked for a bit about the answers before moving onto the next question, “What does diversity and inclusion mean to you?” The answers were mostly about equality, awareness and accessibility. Students described instances where they personally did not feel included, or certain moments in classes that were not as diverse and inclusive as they could have been. Meeting attendees wanted to see more of an effort to promote diversity and inclusion on campus, specifically referencing issues of awareness and accessibility.
Trying a new meeting structure, the senators and others were asked what they expect from a Town Hall. Only one person spoke up, stating that, when a direct question is asked, a direct answer should be given. If no one knows the exact answer, or is unsure, the student said that an effort should still be made to supply an answer.
For the last hour of the meeting, three staff members from the College sat in a panel to discuss diversity and inclusion at Mount Holyoke and to answer any student questions. Associate Dean of Students for Community and Inclusion Latrina Denson, Vice President for Equity and Inclusion and Chief Diversity Officer Kijua Sanders-McMurtry and Dean of Religious and Spiritual Life Annette McDermott were on the panel. Title IX and Section 504 Coordinator Shannon Da Silva was unable to make the meeting, but students were told they could contact her afterwards with any questions.
The three College staff members spoke to the ways their positions have attempted to progress diversity and inclusion on campus. Denson, Sanders- McMurtry and McDermott also talked about their ongoing attempts to resolve specific student concerns. One such concern was the lack of diversity in coursework and how classes are conducted. Others raised regarded the inclusiveness of the Frances Perkins program, accommodations for students with disabilities and missing classes for religious events.