Huskies Get Involved

Every Huskie is welcome and encouraged to take an active role in helping to eradicate racism and discrimination.

Whether you are interested in becoming more informed on the issues, or serving as an ally or advocate, there are opportunities for everyone. Here are a few ways you can help advance social justice.

Benefit from Training and Education

NIU’s education and training programs support students, faculty and staff. The division of Academic Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (ADEI) has developed a comprehensive social justice framework that supports equity-minded practice, uses data to build an inclusive community and closes academic equity gaps for underrepresented populations. All Huskies are encouraged to explore education and training programs on topics such as implicit bias; sexual misconduct and prevention; and how to build community.

The University Libraries has assembled a wealth of social justice education materials, media and resources, including published worked by our own experts, for personal and professional development.

Listen to Understand

All too often, the voices of historically marginalized groups are silenced, unheard or misunderstood. One-on-one conversations, group settings and even social media provide opportunities to actively listen to the concerns and issues of members of the Black, Indigenous and LGBTQ+ communities as well as people of color, people with disabilities and other underrepresented populations. It is important to listen to one another without passing judgment to help build new relationships, foster trust and aid in healing.

Use Your Voice

There are multiple ways to express and live your values by using your voice. For example, voting impacts who is elected to represent the needs of the nation, state and local community. Being an ally to a historically marginalized community means you want to show your respect and commitment to create a welcoming community and help put a stop to oppression of a marginalized group of identity. Currently, we offer two ally training programs: LGBTQ+ and Trans Ally Training and Undocumented Student Ally Training.

Another opportunity is to become an advocate, working to advance policies or practices that would cultivate positive campus experiences and foster successful outcomes for all faculty, staff and/or students. NIU offers many opportunities to advocate for our values and community, whether through ADEI, our Alumni Foundation or our offices for federal and state relations.

Attend an Event

In-person and virtual events for students, staff and faculty are offered throughout the year by NIU offices, cultural and resource centers, as well as by student organizations. Attending an event is a terrific way to meet others, hear different perspectives and learn more about a topic and how to get involved.

Learn More About Our Presidential Commissions

Commissions provide the president with insights and recommendations on the needs and concerns of specific constituencies. Each year, the Office of the President welcomes nominations from faculty, staff and students for appointments to the commissions.

 

Contact Us

Office of the President
Altgeld Hall 300

815-753-1271
president@niu.edu

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