Diversity Statement + Compact
To give further definition and distinction to Maine College of Art & Design’s institutional mission and to advance the goal of diversity in the strategic plan, the following set of principles were created to strengthen our learning community and cultivate an environment that prepares its students to thrive in a diverse and global world. Maine College of Art & Design recognizes that diversity is integral to the academic experience and strives to foster an inclusive culture defined by respect, equity and social responsibility. These principles serve as another catalyst for MECA&D students, faculty, staff and trustees to become the critically engaged citizens upon whom our world depends.
We understand the differences and diversity of our experiences include (but are not limited to): race; class; gender identity and expression; sexual orientation; national origin; ethnicity; faith; religion; veteran status; mental; and, physical ability.
I am responsible as a member of the MECA&D community:
- For recognizing, validating and thinking critically about the diversity of experience within our community.
- To move beyond cultural stereotypes and assumptions in order to open up an authentic (and inclusive) culture of critique.
- To embrace the principles of a small caring community that supports the authentic expression of self and others.
- To see beyond assumptions in order to build authentic relationships across differences.
- To learn and be aware of how larger cultural inequalities and inequities influence our daily interactions.
- To participate with willingness and openness in opportunities which address current social events and to think critically about the impact on our college community and larger world.
- For respecting and supporting all members of our community.
- In engaging in action and dialogue when there is injustice driven by privilege and oppression.
This diversity compact is meant to inform all areas of the College. It will inform our programming, training, research, shared reads, curriculum, events, nomenclature, and systems of governance. The diversity compact will help to transform board, faculty, staff, and student policies using design thinking, critical race theory, and best practices toward social change, racial justice, and inclusion. For more information, contact diversity@meca.edu.
Student Life Staff
Mercedes Garcia
Assistant Director of Student Life-Diversity, Equity, and Belonging
mgarcia@meca.edu
207.699.5037
Diversity, Equity & Belonging Resources
Curriculum & Higher Education
- Teaching Hard History - Southern Poverty Law Center
- Racial Equity Tools
- Courageous Conversations
- Learning for Justice
- Hispanic Heritage Month
- Maine Wabanaki Alliance
- Maine Trans Net
- International Women's Day
Hiring
Annual Events
- September 15 - October 15: Hispanic Heritage Month
- October 10: Indigenous People’s Day
- October 11: National Coming Out Day
- November 18: Trans Day of Remembrance
- January 17: MLK Day of Service
- February: Black History Month
- March 8: International Women's Day
- March 11-18: Resilience Week
- June: Pride Month
- June 19: Juneteenth
- August 26: Women's Equality Day
