Center for Student Diversity
A Place for You
The Center for Student Diversity (CSD) strives to enhance students' success both in and out of the classroom and create a climate on campus that is inclusive and welcoming to all students.
Holiday Spotlight
April is Autism Awareness Month.
Autism Awareness Month is a time dedicated to raising awareness and understanding about autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Throughout April, various events, campaigns, and educational initiatives take place to promote acceptance, inclusion, and support for individuals with autism. The goal is to foster a more inclusive society that recognizes the strengths and unique perspectives of people on the autism spectrum.
April is Arab American Heritage Month.
Arab American Heritage Month celebrates the rich cultural, historical, and social contributions of Arab Americans to the United States. Throughout April, this observance recognizes the diverse Arab American community's achievements in various fields, including art, literature, science, business, and public service. It's a time to honor the heritage, traditions, and resilience of Arab Americans while promoting understanding, unity, and appreciation for their unique cultural identity.
May is Asian American & Pacific Islander Heritage Month.
Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month celebrates the diverse cultures, histories, and contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in the United States. Throughout May, this observance honors the achievements and experiences of AAPI communities across various fields, including arts, sciences, politics, and beyond. It serves as a reminder of the richness and vibrancy of AAPI heritage while promoting unity, understanding, and appreciation for their valuable contributions to American society.
May is Jewish American Heritage Month.
Jewish American Heritage Month, observed in May, celebrates the rich cultural, historical, and social contributions of Jewish Americans to the United States. This month-long observance honors the achievements and resilience of Jewish Americans across various fields such as arts, sciences, business, politics, and philanthropy. It serves as a platform to recognize and appreciate the diversity and vibrant heritage of Jewish Americans while promoting unity, tolerance, and understanding within the broader American society.
May is South Asian Heritage Month.
South Asian Heritage Month, celebrated in various countries at different times, honors the cultural, historical, and societal contributions of people with roots in South Asia. Throughout the designated month, events, activities, and educational programs highlight the diversity and richness of South Asian heritage, including traditions, languages, arts, and achievements in various fields. It's a time to promote awareness, appreciation, and unity among South Asian communities and the broader society, fostering understanding and celebrating their unique identities and contributions.
May is Haitian Heritage Month.
Haitian Heritage Month is a designated period for celebrating and honoring the cultural, historical, and social contributions of Haitian people and their descendants. Observed in May, this month-long celebration recognizes Haiti's rich heritage, including its vibrant arts, music, cuisine, traditions, and historical achievements. It's a time to showcase the resilience, creativity, and diversity of the Haitian community, fostering understanding and appreciation for their unique cultural identity and ongoing impact globally.
May 27th is Memorial Day.
Memorial Day is a day of remembrance in the United States, dedicated to honoring and remembering the men and women who have died while serving in the U.S. military. Observed on the last Monday of May, Memorial Day is marked by ceremonies, parades, and gatherings across the country to pay tribute to the sacrifices made by those who bravely defended their nation. It's a time to reflect on the courage, valor, and selflessness of service members who gave their lives in defense of freedom and democracy.
June is National Caribbean American Heritage Month.
National Caribbean American Heritage Month, observed in June, is a time to celebrate the vibrant cultures, traditions, and contributions of Caribbean Americans to the United States. This month-long celebration highlights the rich heritage and diversity of Caribbean nations, including their music, cuisine, art, literature, and historical achievements. It's an opportunity to honor the Caribbean American community's resilience, creativity, and positive influence on American society, promoting unity, appreciation, and understanding across cultures and generations.
June is Pride Month.
Pride Month is an annual celebration that honors the LGBTQ+ community, commemorates the Stonewall Riots of 1969, and promotes LGBTQ+ rights, visibility, and acceptance. Throughout June, various events, parades, and activities take place globally to celebrate diversity, raise awareness about LGBTQ+ issues, and advocate for equal rights and protections. Pride Month serves as a time of reflection, empowerment, and solidarity, fostering a more inclusive and supportive society for people of all sexual orientations, gender identities, and expressions.
Eid al-Adha begins on June 16th and ends on June 17th.
Eid al-Adha, also known as the "Festival of Sacrifice," is one of the most important Islamic holidays celebrated by Muslims worldwide. It commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God. However, before the sacrifice could take place, God provided a ram to be sacrificed instead. During Eid al-Adha, Muslims gather for prayers, share meals with family and friends, and give to charity. One of the central rituals involves sacrificing an animal (such as a sheep, goat, cow, or camel) and distributing the meat among family, neighbors, and those in need. The holiday emphasizes the values of sacrifice, generosity, community, and faith in Islam.
June 19th is Juneteenth.
Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day or Emancipation Day, commemorates the end of slavery in the United States. It marks June 19, 1865, when Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas, and announced that all enslaved people were free, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation. Juneteenth is a time of reflection, celebration, and education, honoring the resilience and perseverance of African Americans and recognizing the ongoing fight for equality and justice. It's a day to come together as a community, engage in cultural activities, and reaffirm the values of freedom, equality, and unity for all.
June 21st is National Indigenous Peoples Day.
National Indigenous Peoples Day is a day dedicated to honoring and celebrating the diverse cultures, languages, traditions, and contributions of Indigenous peoples in Canada. Observed on June 21st, this day recognizes the rich heritage and resilience of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit communities across the country. It's an opportunity to learn about Indigenous history, participate in cultural activities, and promote understanding, reconciliation, and unity among all Canadians. National Indigenous Peoples Day serves as a reminder of the ongoing journey toward truth, healing, and respect for Indigenous peoples' rights and perspectives.
July is Disability Pride Month.
Disability Pride Month is a celebration of strength, resilience, and diversity within the disabled community. It's a time to honor the unique experiences and contributions of individuals with disabilities, challenging stereotypes and advocating for inclusivity and accessibility in all aspects of life. It's about embracing differences, promoting empowerment, and fostering a more inclusive society where every person is valued and supported.
Happy Independence Day!
Independence Day, celebrated on July 4th in the United States, commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. This historic document declared the thirteen American colonies' independence from British rule, marking the birth of the United States as a free and sovereign nation. Independence Day is celebrated with patriotic displays, fireworks, parades, and gatherings, honoring the principles of freedom, democracy, and independence on which the nation was founded. It's a time for Americans to reflect on their shared history, values, and aspirations for a brighter future.
