A note from The Chief Diversity Officer

Greetings colleagues,

During the month of October, we say goodbye to hot summer days and hello to crisp fall weather. I’m also pleased to share with you the Department of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion's first newsletter. We recognize that diversity means more than just numbers. The purpose of this newsletter is to emphasize the importance of diversity and inclusion and its invaluable role in better serving our team, constituents and the community at-large.

We’ll feature content that informs, raises awareness, and highlights useful educational opportunities that cover a span of topics, some of which may not always be at the forefront. In this first issue, we spotlight Indigenous Peoples' Day, Global Diversity Awareness, National Depression Education and Awareness Month and World Homeless Day.

Be sure to click on the links to take a deeper dive. Our hope is that these topics spark a rich and meaningful conversation among you and your staff. When dialogue happens, we learn – together. The Department of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion is here for you and always available to answer your questions, share additional insights on the topics presented in the newsletter, and discuss the latest happenings in our department.

With Gratitude,

Michael Obasohan

Chief Diversity Officer

Indigenous Peoples Day

Indigenous Peoples’ Day is a holiday celebrated on the second Monday of October in the United States, in lieu of Columbus Day. Indigenous Peoples’ Day, at its core, aims to celebrate and honor the past, present, and futures of Native peoples throughout the United States and acknowledges the legacy of colonialism, which has devastated Indigenous communities historically and continues to have a lasting impact More importantly, however, Indigenous Peoples’ Day moves beyond the narrative of oppression and honors the histories, cultures, contributions, and resilience of contemporary Native peoples.

Global Diversity Awareness Month

When the Second World War ended in 1945, the United Nations General Assembly adopted The Universal Declaration of Human Rights in Paris. The declaration indicates the global expression of rights to all human beings irrespective of their identity. It is for us to acknowledge that every human being deserves equal human rights. It was meant to respect every individual regardless of gender, color, religion, race, sexuality, ethnicity or language, and otherwise.

We must remember that homogenization discounts people’s traditional cultures and unique identities with every bit of globalization. Accepting cultural diversity, especially at work, can eradicate the issue of monoculturalism. Implementing cultural diversity at work this global diversity awareness month can help all get rid of such homogenization.

Global Diversity Awareness Month is a learning opportunity for you to know about various cultures and explore the beauty of unity in diversity.

To learn more click here:

Source: ​GLOBAL DIVERSITY AWARENESS MONTH -October 2022 - National Today

National Depression Education and Awareness Month

Depression can wear you out at the exact time you need all of your strength to fight. Trying to cope is extremely tiring and it’s often difficult to know when others are suffering. That’s why, during October, we observe National Depression Education and Awareness Month. This important event helps teach us about the signs, symptoms, and treatment options for depression. It also lets all of us know that seeking help either from a counselor, a trusted friend, or your community is a sign of hope and strength.

To learn more, click here:

World Homeless Day

The concept of 'World Homeless Day' emerged from online discussions between people working to respond to homelessness from various parts of the world. The Inaugural World Homeless Day was marked on the October 10, 2010.

The purpose of World Homeless Day is to draw attention to the needs of people who experience homelessness locally and provide opportunities for the community to get involved in responding to homelessness, while taking advantage of the stage an ‘international day’ provides - to end homelessness through improved policy and funding.

How To Make a Difference:

·        Educate people about homeless issues

·        Celebrate and support local good works

·        Highlight local issues in the media

·        Donate to local service providers

·        Volunteer and provide hands on help