Students should take time to recognize other cultures
It’s no secret the University of Idaho struggles with diversity. White students make up 77 percent of the undergraduate student body at UI, leaving a small percentage to represent all other ethnicities.
As of fall 2014, African American students made up a little more than 1 percent of the undergraduate student population, while Hispanic students are comprised of 8.2 percent.
With the lack of diversity on campus, it’s important students take time to experience the cultural diversity that does exist and expand their worldviews.
Outside of UI, more diverse populations exist. Without experiencing each culture’s unique qualities and learning how they play into the community as a whole, students deprive themselves of necessary learning experiences.
After graduation, students may find themselves in a new town with a different demographic than Moscow — much like some students experienced coming to UI — and in order to be successful, they need to know how to recognize and respect other cultures.
One example of an opportunity to experience another culture is Shades of Black.
As part of the celebration of Black History Month, the 12th annual event provides a cultural showcase — dancing, singing and spoken word from the black community. The show also offers the opportunity to comment on both local and national issues surrounding race and culture and will begin at 5 p.m.
Saturday in the International Ballroom of the Bruce Pitman Center, formally known as the Student Union Building.
This year, the show’s organizers will address the theme “Beauty is …” for interpretations of both internal and external beauty.
This event is just one of the many opportunities students have to gain insight into issues communities of different ethnicities face. It’s an event every student should experience at least once during his or her time at UI.
These events serve as reminders of the struggle for equality the black community continues to face, even in 2015.
Another opportunity to celebrate Black History Month is a 6 p.m. screening of the film “Dear White People” Feb. 19 at the Kenworthy Performing Arts Centre.
Students should take time to connect with and understand one another by embracing individual cultures.
Not everyone comes from the same background, but everyone can make an effort to embrace the diversity UI does have.
–KH