Governors State Celebrates Diversity and Dialogue

World diversity Day

In a celebration of diversity and dialogue, Governors State University (GovState) hosted a daylong conference of workshops, resource fairs, artistic showcases, and uncomfortable conversations.

“This is what today is all about – people from different backgrounds coming together for dialogue,’’ said Joi Patterson, Chief of Institutional Engagement and Excellence, who led the day.

A panel facilitated by GovState President Joyce Ester, Ph.D., titled “Cultural Perspectives on Care, Restoration and Community” and featured the experiences of Dr. Constance Edwards, a retired nurse, Mental Health Practitioner Dr. Ashley Gaddy Robbins, the Rev. Michael Pfleger, pastor of St. Sabina Church, and Indigenous Scholar Dr. Edward Valandra.

Each panelist shared their unique perspectives on how to navigate conversations with people of different faiths, cultural backgrounds, races, and ethnicities in today’s politically divisive environment.

Pfleger, who received an honor doctorate from GovState in 2022, said difficult conversations and news must be engaged - not ignored.

“Do not feel overwhelmed. Do not tune it out. We have to call it out,’’ he said. “Last, we have to believe we can change.”

President Ester closed out the panel with one of her favorite Aboriginal quotes:

"If you have come here to help me, you are wasting your time, but if you've come here because your liberation is bound up with mine, then let us work together.”

The World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development is celebrated annually on May 21st to promote cultural diversity, intercultural dialogue, and sustainable development. Established by the UN in 2002, this day highlights the importance of respecting diverse cultures to achieve global peace.