Click the below dates for a themed reflection and action for every day. Feel free to engage with these on a cycle, or to choose a few that are particularly relevant to you.
Resources
Whether you were able to attend the British Sign Language (BSL) workshop or not, take some time to practice the BSL alphabet here. You can also read about the experiences of Deaf students within College by reading first-year student Stephen's blog.
Quote of the Day
The quote below from Stephen’s article is excellent, and hopefully an incentive to read it in full:
“Instead of being defined by the obstacles to communication that my deafness presents, I hope to be taken for the person that I am (it occurs to me as I write this that my quirks aren’t exactly going to help. But isn’t Cambridge such a wonderful hub of eccentricity and diversity to be celebrated?)”
Resources
- Taking Up Space can be found in the College library, bought at your local bookseller or borrowed from a fresher who took part in the College book club.
- A Dutiful Boy by Mohsin Zaidi is another recommended read. In this memoir, Zaidi shares his journey as a gay Pakistani Muslim in a religious household and how he learnt to live in every aspect of his identity.
- As it’s LGBTQ+ History Month, the University is hosting a range of events, including a Poetry Takeover at the Arts Picturehouse.
Quote of the Day
From Vanity Fair’s Elliot Page Finally Feels “Able to Just Exist” we share the below quote:
“I feel so grateful to be at this place in my life, and I want to use the strength I have to help in all the ways that I can. The reason you and I have the privileges we have is because people have sacrificed so much for so, so, so long and put everything on the line.”
Resources
- As you enjoy your lunch, consider the role of food in understanding, appreciating and respecting cultures different to your own. We recommend the article ‘Desiring ‘authentic’ food: this gal’s beef with food appropriation’ by Shreeta Lakhani.
- Additionally, Beryl Shereshewsky on YouTube shares meals and approaches to cooking from around the world. Check out her video on “How the world eats when they’re sick” or “How the world eats egg”.
- Watch a short video from the host of ‘Navigating Cambridge as a Working-Class Student’, David Clifford, on inclusion at Homerton.
Quote of the Day:
Reverend Jesse Jackson has notably said:
“When everyone is included, everyone wins”
Read more about his life, and his role as an honorary Fellow for College here. You can also hear how members of the College have been impacted by his work here.
Resources
Sundays are a great day to relax, maybe go for a walk and listen to a podcast. We wanted to share some of the following:
- Guilty Feminist Podcast
Ever felt like you should be better at feminism? Join comedian Deborah Frances-White and her guests for this comedy podcast, recorded in front of a live audience. Each week they discuss topics "all 21st-century feminists agree on" while confessing their insecurities, hypocrisies and fears that underlie their lofty principles. - Becoming an Anti-Racist
Supporting you on your journey to becoming an antiracist. This podcast offers a space to listen, reflect, engage and learn. - Two Twos podcast
Two black lesbians living in London speaking their unapologetic truth whilst creating a safe space for people like themselves and bridging the gap between LGBT+ people and Cis gendered straight people!
Quote of the Day
Today’s quote comes from Deborah Francis-White who states:
“We don't have to be perfect to dare ourselves to be better”
Resources
Read about Lord Simon Woolley's experience growing up and becoming an activist here.
Quote of the Day
From this article, we wanted to highlight the Principal’s reflections on success:
“I hope we’re able to expand the limited view of what success looks like. Should our focus be on getting the double firsts or on being great innovators for social justice?”
Resources
- You can read about the experience of four of Homerton’s Fellows for International Day for Women and Girls in Science here.
- We also recommend science comedy podcast Ologies hosted by Alie Ward. The podcast aims to share science in an accessible way, as well as elevate the voices and work of scientists from underrepresented groups.
- Should you be interested in stationary, stickers and pins to showcase your support for diversity in STEM, take a look at the Little Science Co shop.
Quote of the Day
From the above article, we wanted to highlight the worlds of Dr Amelia Drew who says:
“I would advise you to go for it if it is something you are passionate about. Scientific careers and research certainly have their challenges, but I have found it incredibly rewarding.”
Resources:
If you’re keen to gain support with regards to entry careers, we’d recommend taking a look at the Careers Service (who have focussed on the experiences of Black graduates and graduates with disabilities) and the Careers Section on the University Black Advisory Hub webpage.
Quote of the Day:
Our final quote is from the late bell hooks who writes:
“Love is a combination of care, commitment, knowledge, responsibility, respect and trust.”
Considering love and the above actions as part of our inclusive practice is not always easy, but can lead to the creation of welcoming spaces where we can learn and grow together.
