In the summer of 2024, the University of Oregon Division of Equity and Inclusion piloted a program to address fears and misconceptions about Jewish and Arab communities. The intention behind this programming was to address antisemitism and Islamophobia in a constructive way, informed by the L.A.C.E. framework that emphasizes love, authenticity, courage and empathy. It offers faculty and staff an opportunity to learn from national experts about issues that affect our campus and encourages flourishing despite ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
Abigail Leeder, manager of Experiential Learning, says that the pilot program was so successful the division made a concerted effort to make the workshops accessible to the wider university community. “We received really positive feedback about the information and the presenters,” Leeder said. “At a time where tension is high, it is really important that we make efforts to educate ourselves on how we can create a more inclusive campus environment.”
Sessions are now available in December and March. Recognizing that learning, healing and flourishing are ongoing, the program will also include a session where participants can reflect and explore ways to make UO more inclusive.
Leeder said that the post-workshop feedback was overwhelmingly positive. “Almost everyone who attended stated that they would wholeheartedly recommend this to their colleagues,” she said. “One participant shared that the presentation encouraged her to learn more about the systemic injustices in our country.”
Fall term workshops:
- Understanding Antisemitism with Project Shema, Dec 3, 1:30 to 3 p.m.
- Understanding Islamophobia with Islamic Networks Group, Dec. 10, 1:30 to 3 p.m.
- Debrief Session: Understanding Antisemitism and Islamophobia, Dec. 16, 1 to 2 p.m.
Winter term workshops:
- Understanding Islamophobia with Islamic Networks Group, March 10, 3:30 to 5 p.m.
- Understanding Antisemitism with Project Shema, March 17, 3:30 to 5 p.m.
- Debrief Session: Understanding Antisemitism and Islamophobia, March 20, 4 to 5 p.m.
Registration is available through MyTrack.