A Cross-Disciplinary Team Approach to Offering Institution-Wide Structural Racism Educational Programming
Three-Year Reflections
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.18060/28656Keywords:
programming, racism, cross-departmental collaborationAbstract
Introduction
Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives are at the forefront of institutional conversations, strategies, and goals. Librarians have a natural role in contributing to greater institutional DEI activities, including educational programming and training. However, it can often be challenging for librarians to dedicate time and staff and to be seen as a partner in DEI activities on campus. This Voices of Experience article reflects on the educational advocacy work of a cross-disciplinary committee at a small graduate school of psychology whose goal was to educate the campus community about the embedded historic and ongoing structural racist practices that impact the community.
Experience
Over three academic years, 2021- 2024, the Structural Racism Programming Committee (SRPC) planned and offered 21 programs to our entire community of students, faculty, and staff. Each event centered on a theme, such as voting, housing, education, and the environment. A variety of event types were offered, including presentations, panels, film screenings, exhibits, and tours. An end-of-year program evaluation survey was developed and distributed each year to aid in continuously improving and planning future programs.
Discussion
Overall, the programming was valued by the community, but attendance remained low due to several consistent barriers including scheduling conflicts, lack of time, and competing priorities. Additionally, a small number of students reported that they did not participate because they failed to see the relevance of the subject matter to their clinical psychology studies and field work. Varying the event formats seemed to increase interest and participation. Based on the committee’s observations and the program evaluation results, programming was adjusted each year.
Takeaways
For other librarians seeking to contribute similarly to DEI educational initiatives at their institutions, recommendations include proactively expressing interest and offering expertise, seeking partners outside the library, determining activity scope, and remaining flexible.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Stephanie Swanberg, Candi Wilson, Carrie Pyeatt, Dana Erickson, Kinsey Tekiele, Jana Thompkins
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