Ourspace Dialogue

“Our Space” is a series of programs designed help students engage in face-to-conversations on such topics as class identity, gender identity, racial identity and sexual identity.

Through these programs, students will explore and upon various aspects of diversity and social justice. As part of our commitment to build an inclusive welcoming community, the conversations will be designed so that all voices are affirmed in a respectful setting. You choose from four topics, and two trained presenters from Allegheny will facilitate a discussion.

  • You choose the session date and topic
  • Two trained presenters from Allegheny will facilitate a discussion on your chosen topic
  • Each session is 90 minutes in length
  • Handouts available

We are offering the following interactive, discussion-oriented programs:

Socio-economic identity
Through discussions and films, we will explore the ever-expanding gap between rich and poor in our country, the link between class and status, the history of the “American Dream” and the impact of economics on our daily lives. Participants will be encouraged to consider how their own family and community history has been influenced by class structures in our country.

Gender identity
What role does gender play in influencing our decisions and interactions? How does society and the media impact how we are socialized about gender roles? A lively conversation about gender issues both on and off campus.

Sexual identity
Throughout the world, on university and grade school campuses, in communities and homes, and in the media, issues of homosexuality, bisexuality, and transgenderism are increasingly “coming out of the closet.” Hate-motivated violence against LGBT people is on the rise.* These discussions will help raise awareness and understanding of the issues and consider the impact on our community and its members.

Racial identity
Now, more than ever, racial discrimination is not only about skin color and other aspects of our identity, such as ethnicity, national origin, language, accent, religion, and cultural customs. The challenge is to ensure that none of these factors continues to affect the quality of life choices so that we can finally treat each other with dignity and respect regardless of our differences.* How will we all respond to this challenge?