Friday, October 6, 2017

Community Celebrations


Email from Chief Diversity Officer Malika Carter, to all students and campusnews:
Dear ESF Community,

The crisp air and changing leaves tell us that autumn is upon us. And with that comes Halloween and the many ways some observe this festive event. If you choose to participate in Halloween festivities, please be thoughtful and respectful when celebrating.

In particular, please keep in mind that certain Halloween costumes inappropriately perpetuate racial, cultural, and gender stereotypes. Although it may not be the intent, these costumes, and choosing to wear them, can depict identities in ways that are offensive or hurtful to others. Please take care in selecting your Halloween costumes. And, as always, keep in mind the potential for social media posts to have a long-term impact on your reputation.

Halloween is just one occasion on a broad continuum where we all benefit from acting with an understanding of the concepts of diversity, inclusion, equity, and respect. At ESF, we work to foster a campus climate that supports these values, and we seek to weave them into the life and work of every member of our community.

We appreciate your commitment to these values in your choices for daily life and as you celebrate Halloween.

Please post this notice in community spaces for the benefit of individuals without regular access to email.

Be well and be safe.

Dr. Malika Carter, Chief Diversity Officer


Endorsed By:
ESF Professionals of Color

[Drawn from an open letter from Katrice Albert and Danita Brown Young]

This material is available in alternative formats. Please direct comments/inquiries to:
Malika Carter, Ph.D., Chief Diversity Officer, SUNY ESF at mcarte06@esf.edu