As members of the Skidmore community, we need to see and call out white people and whiteness. Doing so forces faculty and staff to be a part of the conversation on racial inequality, rather than allowing them to deflect, take a raincheck, and never address it. Doing the work also entails taking strides to figure out and specifically define your race. Ending racism is a community effort; thus, in addition to professors and staff, students must also reflect and address the questions above. Change cannot occur within our community if we (Skidmore staff, faculty, and students) continue to refuse to racialize white people. Thus, the time for change is now.
Read moreInvestigating Identity: Kwame Anthony Appiah Speaks At Skidmore
Appiah’s lecture enlightened me to the intensity of identity and the duty each person has to themself and others to explore their social stance. What does my presentation communicate to others? More importantly, what do I want it to communicate? How do I incorporate intersecting identities? By approaching social groups as tribes, I have gained a renewed sensation of belonging and community. Identity is a shapeshifting force that will likely be in flux for a while, if not permanently. Still, Appiah’s guidance granted me unexpected insight into the empowerment that is intertwined with identity.
Read morePronouns in the Classroom: Balancing Sensitivity and Progression
Through an email sent out to all tour guides, the Admissions department announced students may now include their prefered pronouns on their name tags. At Skidmore, most students feel liberated to be themselves; finding comfort in the support of their peers -- a support they may not get at home. However, one student’s experience cannot determine how others will react to similar situations.
Read more