Recently, our UMBC community has been made aware of divisive language shared on social media pages that has negatively impacted members of our community, specifically members of the LGBTQIA+ and Muslim communities. Taking into account all the ways that our individual and community’s well-being has been negatively impacted this year, situations like this cause additional stress and trauma. Here at UMBC, diversity and inclusive excellence are principles and practices that we value. When we honor these values, it helps to keep our community and its members safe and well.
The Office of Health Promotion (OHP) deeply cares about the well-being of each and every member of our community, regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity, race/ethnicity, or religion. The OHP team, which includes our professional and student staff, want to affirm our dedication to fostering a culture of mutual respect and equity. We also recognize that all members of our community are free to express their points of view but do not believe that this freedom should be used to harm members of our community.
The greatness of our UMBC community is reflected in how we care for and treat each other. We honor and will continue to support the well-being of all students. We stand in solidarity with LGBTQIA+ and Muslim-identified members of the community during this time, and always.
To the LGBTQIA+ and Muslim-identified members of our UMBC community,
We see you. We hear you. We value you.
If you are in need of additional inclusion resources, we encourage you to contact the following UMBC offices before December 23 or after January 3 due to UMBC’s closure for the winter break.
❏ The Office of Equity and Inclusion
❏ Initiatives for Identity, Inclusion, and Belonging
❏ The Women’s Center
If you would like to process these events with a professional, the Counseling Center is available to all students. Please contact 410-455-2472 to make a virtual appointment.
If you are looking for support resources between December 23, 2020 and January 3, 2021, please call the after-hours support line 410-455-3230.
