About Diversity, Justice, and Sustainability (DJS) Community
Explore Identity. Become an Advocate for Positive Social and Environmental Change.
The Diversity, Justice, and Sustainability (DJS) community seeks to create a safe, supportive, and diverse environment that challenges students to explore social justice issues and begin the work towards equity as engaged citizens on both local and global levels. The DJS community promotes opportunities for students to challenge themselves to learn and act in ways that make a difference in the lives of others. The DJS community is an exciting opportunity to meet new people, learn about yourself, explore issues of injustice, and serve as agents for change within your communities. Students will be able to have the added value of relationships with faculty/staff and collaboration with the Center for Diversity, Justice, and Sustainability. The DJS community comprises three intersectional sub-communities:
- First in the Family Wings For students who are first in their families to attend college (first-generation students whose parents did not graduate from a four-year, degree granting institution in the U.S.) with support to connect them to resources for success in and out of the classroom.
- Students of Color Wings For students who identify as People of Color (or not White) who are interested in exploring their racial and ethnic social identities and cultures.
- Environmental & Social Justice Wings For students who are interested in exploring the intersection of social justice and environmental justice and translating this knowledge into positive social change through leadership and action.
- Lavender Community For students who identify with the LGBTQ+ community and its histories, communities, and activism.
Great For Students Who ...
- are interested in gaining an increased understanding of their cultural identities through reflection on value
- want to learn more about basic concepts of social justice
- are interested in learning how to create positive change in their hall, PLU, the greater Tacoma community and beyond
Program + Learning Outcomes
By participating in Diversity, Justice, and Sustainability (DJS) community, students will:
- develop an increased understanding of their own cultural identity through critical reflection of their beliefs, values, attitudes and emotions
- be involved in discussions, programs, and leadership development around the concept of social action
- recognize their voices as leaders
- be able to identify ways to take action at PLU, our greater Tacoma community, and beyond to enact positive change
Linked Residence Hall(s)
Linked Course for First Year Residents
First-year Ordal residents will be enrolled in a linked PLUS 100: Transitions to PLU course connected with the Diversity, Justice, and Sustainability Community.
Example Programs
Below are a few examples of social justice programs that have occurred in the past! If you have an idea for a wing or hall program, contact your Resident Assistant or Community Advocate to see about planning it!
- DJS Retreat at the Center for Diversity, Justice, and Sustainability
- Habitat for Humanity Volunteering
- Staycation: Parkland Immersion Alternative Spring Break | sponsored by the Center for Community Engagement and Service
- My Culture is Not a Costume | Conversation with the Diversity Center about cultural appropriation in Halloween Costumes
- Tunnel of Oppression
Contact
For more information about this Learning Community option you may contact:
Dream Gonzales, Community Director for Ordal and Stuen Halls | dgonzales@plu.edu
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