That “D” word again…
You know, Diversity!
I, and others, went to the diversity plan open session on Friday, and I’ve been meaning to share my thoughts on the subject, but have been too busy.
There were a large number of faculty there. Of those who spoke, a large portion were from overseas. Of the people attending who were not part of the diversity plan committee, the opinions were largely against the proposed diversity plan.
There was some choice commentary from some of the people in attendence. My favorite was a short story about how Russia was lost to communism due to people talking about diversity and righting things with the serfs after they were freed in Russia.
“Stop this now, before it is too late,” was the passionate end to another anti-plan speech.
And there was talk of elephants in the room. To the Republicans on campus: There are some faculty members here who understand that intellectual and political diversity is valuable. Everyone in the room was treated to Prof. Bill Harbaugh’s brief report on the current state of Political Diversity at the UO.
Among the definitions of Cultural Competence that has been circulated: “Cultural Competency: Cacophonic Clause Created to Clear Campus of Conservatives.”
Several people asked the Vice Provost if he could name a budget figure for his office. He could not or would not. He stated that if anyone sent him an email asking for the figure, he would provide it. I have sent such an email and have been assured by an administrative assistant that the figure will be provided to me tomorrow or the next day.
I’ll have more soon enough. Stay tuned.
