Black Leaders to Speak at OSU-Cascades Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Symposium

BEND, Ore. – A leader on race, religion and contemporary culture and a dynamic civil rights activist will each deliver keynote addresses at the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Symposium hosted by Oregon State University – Cascades May 14 and 15.

Michael Eric Dyson, a distinguished professor of African American studies, ethics and society at Vanderbilt University, will present the conference opening address. He is the author or editor of more than 20 books on subjects from Malcolm X to Tupac Shakur. He is a contributing opinion writer at The New York Times and a MSNBC political analyst.

Tamika D. Mallory will present the keynote closing address in a conversation with Erika McCalpine, founding director of the OSU-Cascades Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Laboratory. In the wake of the murder of George Floyd, Mallory gave what has been called “the speech of a generation,” in which she urged change for the state of Black people in the United States. Mallory was one of the leading organizers of the 2017 Women’s March and recognized that year as one of TIME’s 100 most influential people in the world.

The virtual conference is designed to support the advancement of diversity, equity and inclusion in workplaces, local communities and institutions.

What to expect and who you'll see

“It takes courage to create social change”

McCalpine who is also the conference organizer, said “The Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Symposium was created in response to calls from activists, allies and community members who want education that can lead to action and positive change for marginalized communities around the country.”

Presenters also include Oscar Holmes IV, a management professor and associate dean for undergraduate programs at Rutgers University; Dwaine Plaza, a professor of sociology in the OSU School of Public Policy; Jason Rivera, vice chancellor for student academic success at Rutgers University; Jody Saffert, director of people and organization development at St. Charles Health System; and Judith Sadora, a therapist and owner of Triune Health and Wellness.

Session topics include race and racism in America, a racial history of Oregon, mental health in activism and tools to help allies support marginalized groups.

Central Oregon Community College is a co-sponsor of the conference and made scholarships available for participants who demonstrate financial need.

The Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Symposium is open to the public and the registration fee is $150. For information, to register or apply for a conference scholarship, visit osucascades.edu/dei-symposium or contact events@osucascades.edu.