Antiracism Actions: Update

December 17, 2020 update from OWU President Rock Jones

Though much of our attention this semester has been focused on COVID-19, we also have taken many actions this fall in relation to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and to our antiracism agenda. I write to provide an update on our progress in that crucial area.

During this past spring and summer, we met with many OWU students and alumni to listen to their concerns and ideas about issues of equity and racism at Ohio Wesleyan. We heard many troubling stories from Bishops of color, and the systemic issues behind those stories must be addressed. 

We must, individually and as a community, work to create a University and a society that aspires to the promise of liberty and equity that has yet to be fulfilled.

In June, we announced a first set of actions in a new initiative to support diversity, equity, and inclusion on campus in ways intended to create meaningful and immediate change. I want to stress the word “actions.” Our statements are important, but ultimately, it is our actions that will create change. These actions, focused on four key areas, involve making positive changes to:

• The University’s structure and policies to strengthen equitable and inclusive practices.
• The ways we deliver our core mission of teaching and learning.
• The ways we recruit and retain students and employees.
• The measures we use to ensure that our campus climate affirms clearly and boldly the values of diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Staff and faculty from across the University have been involved in these efforts, and I am pleased to share the progress that has been made in each area as well as new actions we will be taking. Many people have contributed to this agenda and to this progress. I want to especially thank the Council for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion and its chair, Dawn Chisebe. I also want to thank all of the students who have been passionate advocates for this work, especially our WCSA president and vice president, Jose Matute and Autumn Ford.

The actions reported here indicate important steps forward, but by no means do they signal “mission accomplished.” We must and will continue to work for change.

We will have more actions to announce in the coming semester. We must keep up the momentum, and as our banner on Sandusky Street proclaims: Stand Together and Work for Change.

I look forward to continuing this vital work with you. In the meantime, best wishes for a safe and happy holiday season and winter break full of rest, relaxation, and time with your family.

Read the DEI Action Plan for more information.

– Rock Jones