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.

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

Community Information

Linked Residence Hall:
Ordal Hall

Community Director
Dream Gonzales

CD Email:
dgonzales@plu.edu

Past Hall/Wing Programs

The Studal Farmer’s Market was held outdoors in Red Square in Spring 2023, where RAs hosted activity booths, catered food, and the chance to win fun prizes!

The DJS community comprises four intersectional sub-communities:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. Lavender Community For students who identify with the LGBTQ+ community and its histories, communities, and activism.

This event invited First in the Family and Students of Color together to have open conversations about how to set healthy boundaries with oneself, friends and family. Students took pictures together using polaroid cameras for college memories and to remind themselves why they’re here.