March 30, 2009

Respecting Differences

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Dear Colleagues:

The greatest gift we give our students is the opportunity to experience and understand the value of living and working in a diverse society. That gift is one we give ourselves as a University community as well. It is a gift that deserves an occasional moment to stop and reflect and ensure we are welcoming to a diverse population and the richness and vitality that results.

I am proud that Western Michigan University is part of a community coalition that this week will bring the 11th annual Respecting Differences diversity event designed to help that reflection. We do this for the benefits of our employees and the community at large, and we do this in collaboration with the city of Kalamazoo, Kalamazoo County, Kalamazoo Community Mental Health, Kalamazoo College, and the city of Portage.

This year’s event, “From Exclusion To Inclusion,” features actor B.D. Wong, celebrated performer and featured actor on NBC’s “Law and Order: SVU” and the controversial HBO series “Oz.” Wong will discuss the lessons he learned to ensure he would survive and excel in a vocation filled with race-based rejection. His presentation addresses many issues, including Asian stereotypes in Hollywood, Asian-American parental pressure and the myth of the “model minority.”

I strongly encourage you to attend this University-sponsored event. The presentations have been scheduled to accommodate various work schedules and to ensure that WMU services are not interrupted. The same 90-minute presentation will be offered twice at Chenery Auditorium, 714 S. Westnedge Ave. The days and times are:

• Tuesday, March 31, from 1:30 to 3 p.m.
• Wednesday, April 1, from 9:30 to 11 a.m.

Parking will be available behind the building and on adjacent streets. A shuttle will provide transportation from the Seibert Administration Building to Chenery Auditorium and back. The shuttle will be in front of Seibert and will pick up those planning to attend at about 12:45 and 1 p.m. Tuesday, and about 8:45 and 9 a.m. Wednesday.

Admission is free. However, tickets will be required. Every WMU employee should have already received a postcard-sized ticket in campus mail. Be sure to bring yours with you, and be prepared to hear a wonderful presentation.

Thank you for your assistance in supporting this important event. If you have any questions, please call Felicia Crawford, director of human resources services, at 387-3635.

Best regards,

John M. Dunn
President