By Parker Leipzig
On March 30, the Bias Incident Support Services (BISS) in the Office of Diversity and Inclusion hosted their monthly circle meeting but this time, the topic weighed even more heavily on the attendees.
The circle is meant to be a space for community members to heal together, according to Dr. Van Bailey, the director of Bias Incident Support Services.
“We center pain points, current events or student requested spaces. This past March’s circle centered AAPI communities due to violence and hate experienced by the community and provided an opportunity for community care,” Bailey said.
Brian Medina, the program manager for the Bias Incident Support Services and the moderator of this specific event, was approached by the Asian American Student Union (AASU) to provide a meaningful discussion, even before the horrific events that sparked a massive media interest into instances of AAPI hate.
Medina used the restorative circle technique, one that derives from indigenous tribes, specifically the Piscataway Conoy.
“Many native communities have used restorative methods for centuries and have provided wisdom from our ancestors to bring us into unity with one another, the land, and a collective spirit,” Medina said.
Ze said the circle aims to ensure the harm and trauma of those being impacted by a situation is heard and that people feel supported. Medina also said these discussions allow people to make sincere connections with otherwise strangers.
“I am continually reminded that carrying the weight of trauma is easier when done in community with others who truly care,” Medina said.
This event sparked a lot of emotion among those in attendance and is not the end of the line as far as the Office of Diversity and Inclusion trying to foster a safe and inclusive environment for everyone on campus.
The director of diversity training and education Dr. Carlton E. Green said we have to center around those in the margins and not only listen to their stories, but believe what they are saying when it comes to their experiences.
“We need to be honest about the harm that we have caused the community. Then, we have to hold ourselves accountable for that harm. That’s how we keep the movement going,” Green said.
Allison Dickinson, the communications officer for the Office of Diversity and Inclusion, said her office is constantly working to host training sessions for groups on campus and healing programs for members of the community that touch on all different marginalized groups.
“All of our units (BISS, DTE, the LGBT Equity Center, the Nyumburu Cultural Center and the Office of Multi-ethnic Student Education) provide spaces for group or one-on-one healing as well,” Dickinson said.
Checking in with friends and family affected by tragedies doesn’t end after the media stops documenting it.
Medina constantly thinks about small things everyone can do to promote a restorative setting.
“While it is very difficult to replicate the Circle on a global scale, we should certainly center the dignity and humanity of anyone we meet,” ze said.
Note: All sources gave written responses through email.
Featured photo: Screenshot from registration website for the event.