Session 3: Imagining Justice and Belonging Together

Session 2: Understanding Identity in Community

Call for Events, Programs, and Ideas: Cultural Heritage Month Curations

DOIE is excited to work toward a unified announcement of events, programs, and initiatives in celebration of upcoming Cultural Heritage Months. 

This is your opportunity to highlight events and programs, or offer fresh ideas for engagement. Whether you are planning an event or simply have an idea you would like to support in bringing to life, we want to hear from you. 

We are currently curating for:

• Latinx Heritage Month (September 15 – October 15); 

• LGBTQ History Month (October); 

• Disability Cultural Month (October); 

• Native American Heritage Month (November);

• Black History Month (February);

• Women’s History Month (March); and

• Asian Pacific American Heritage Month (May).

DOIE invites UMBC-affiliated organizations and campus departments or offices to request financial sponsorships or collaboration to support AY25-26 initiatives that align with the university’s commitment to inclusive excellence.

Sponsorships of up to $1,000 annually are available per organization or department/office. 

Submit your request today!

Link to submission: http://bit.ly/DOIESponsorship

Eligibility

UMBC-affiliated organizations, offices, or departments may request sponsorship or collaboration for initiatives that:

• Advance inclusive excellence within the UMBC community.

• Align with DOIE’s vision, mission, and core values.

• Promote UMBC’s strategic priorities such as innovative teaching, civic engagement, accessible environments, or research that enhances inclusive excellence.

• Are open for full participation by all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, or any other protected category under applicable federal law, state law, and the University's nondiscrimination policy.

3. Imagining Justice and Belonging Together, 11/19

This summer, UMBC is teaming up with the Maryland Department of Disabilities to upgrade nine teaching labs in the Meyerhoff Chemistry Building—marking a major step in fostering inclusive STEM education. The goal: ensure all students, including wheelchair users and those with various disabilities, can fully participate in core chemistry and biochemistry courses.

What's Changing in the Labs?

• Wheelchair-accessible sinks, fume hoods, lab benches, and cabinets

• Lowered equipment stations for independent use

• A research lab redesigned for accessible hands-on experience

Lecture Hall Upgrades Include:

• Wheelchair-accessible seating in multiple locations with fold-down tablets

• TV monitors for better visibility for low-vision students

• Standing desks and seating variations for diverse body types, pregnant students, and orthopedic needs

• Assisted listening tech and designated interpreter areas for students who are Deaf or hard of hearing

Additional accessibility projects include:

• Restroom renovations in the Biological Sciences Building

• Elevator upgrades across multiple academic buildings

“The Office of Accessibility & Disability Services greatly values our longstanding partnership with Facilities Management to assist us in the mission of inclusive access and elimination of barriers for all UMBC community members,” says Tawny McManus, Assistant Vice President for Accessibility.

Learn how these changes are reshaping inclusion in STEM at UMBC: Read more here.

See original post here:  https://my3.my.umbc.edu/groups/accessibility/posts/151158

DOIE Expands Confidential Advocacy Services to Support Students Affected by Gender-Based Harm

The Division of Institutional Equity is proud to announce the expansion of its services with a new Advocacy Program, co-located with the Women's, Gender, & Equity Center (WGEC). This initiative underscores UMBC's commitment to fostering a safe and equitable campus environment for all students.

Comprehensive Support for Survivors

The Survivor Advocacy program offers individualized, trauma-informed support for students who have experienced gender-based harm, including relationship violence, sexual harassment, sexual assault, and stalking. Whether the incident occurred recently or prior to attending UMBC, survivors can access services ranging from one-time consultations to ongoing support.

Introducing Respondent Advocacy

In alignment with UMBC's dedication to due process and educational equity, the newly established Respondent Advocacy program provides compassionate, non-punitive support for students navigating the Title IX process as respondents. This program emphasizes education, emotional support, and personal growth, encouraging students to engage in self-reflection and align with community values.

Confidential and Accessible Services

All Advocacy Services are confidential, ensuring that information shared by students is not disclosed to the Office of Equity and Civil Rights (ECR) or Title IX officials without explicit consent. This confidentiality fosters a safe space for students to seek assistance without fear of mandatory reporting.

Meet Our Advocates

• Kate Arbaugh, Survivor Advocate

• Lauren Allen, Acting Respondent Advocate and Senior Director of the WGEC

Contact Information & Website

Students seeking support can schedule an appointment by emailing advocacy@umbc.edu. Visit us at https://advocacy.umbc.edu/

About the Women's, Gender, & Equity Center

The WGEC advances gender equity from an intersectional feminist perspective through co-curricular programming, support services, and advocacy for marginalized individuals and communities. The center is located on the ground floor of The Commons, Suite 004.

[The services provided are open for full participation by all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, or any other protected category under applicable federal law, state law, and the University's nondiscrimination policy.]