Open Door Project

Community Conversation

The Power of Privilege: An Interactive Diversity Workshop

Diversity means differences, which are undeniable and common to all human groups. To understand what is really at stake when we talk about “diversity,” it is useful to shift our focus to “equity” and “inclusion,” so that we can share strategies and tools for recognizing how our societies and institutions organize people, rather than focusing solely on individual differences. How societies manage differences (of race-ethnicity, gender and sexuality, age, class, ability, and so forth) lead to varied systems of privilege or oppression.

Strengthening Our Safety Net for Students

Many University of Pittsburgh students face significant financial obstacles to getting their basic needs—food, shelter, healthcare--met. Support is available, but gaining access to it can be challenging. In this interactive session, students, faculty, staff, and alumni who were first-generation college students will discuss the challenges they faced and how their socio-economic status limited their ability to fully participate in campus life.

“Creating an Inclusive Environment for Individuals with Hidden Disabilities”

Some disabilities are obvious, while others are not.  This workshop, presented by Leigh Culley, director of the University’s Office of Disability Resources and Services and co-sponsored by the University's Division of Student Affairs, will help attendees develop an understanding of various hidden disabilities; gain tips for successful interactions and communications; and learn how to connect members of the University community to the appropriate resources.

Creating a Supportive Environment for Our Veteran Students

Edwin Hernandez, director of the University of Pittsburgh’s Office of Veterans Services and a veteran of the U.S. Air Force, will moderate a panel of Pitt faculty, students, and alumni—all of whom are US military veterans— as they discuss ways in which the University can best welcome and support veteran and military affiliated students.

 

Panelists:

Dr. Michael A. Dunn, Professor of Medicine
University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine
U.S. Army

"Free Speech and Dissent in Today's Political Climate"

“Free Speech and Dissent in Today’s Political Climate”
Megan Block and Mike Healey, attorneys representing the Greater Pittsburgh Chapter of the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), will discuss the set of guarantees protected by the First Amendment and how free speech goes hand-in-hand with engaged citizenship.

Pamela W. Connelly, Vice Chancellor for Diversity and Inclusion at the University of Pittsburgh, will provide introductory remarks.

 

 

I'm Not Racist...Am I? Film Screening and Workshop

The Dietrich School’s Open Door Project presents:

The Movie and Q & A 2:30 – 4:30 p.m.

I'm Not Racist... Am I? is a feature documentary by Point Made Films following a diverse group of teens through a yearlong exploration to get at the heart of racism. Through some tense and painful moments, we see how these difficult conversations affect their relationships with friends and parents, and ultimately challenge them to look deep within themselves.