A Diversity Strategies advocate will spend two days speaking at Ohio University about racism and heterosexism in the African-American community.
The Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Ally Center is hosting Erin Upchurch, an educator and advocate of Diversity Strategies — a consulting firm that offers strategies for diversity and inclusion — Wednesday and Thursday to speak about heterosexism in the African-American community.
Upchurch has more than 10 years’ experience in community outreach and planning services. She graduated with a master’s degree in social work from Case Western Reserve University.
“Diversity is so important that many people may know what it is but not understand the issues that impact various groups,” Upchurch said.
Bringing awareness to diversity issues is critical to make progress toward change, she said.
“Overall, it is important to have access to diversity programs like this one because it reveals circumstances individuals, such as African-Americans, face in the community,” said Mickey Hart, director of the LGBTA Center at OU. “Programs and presentations allow for individuals and groups who have been impacted by negative stereotypes and face discrimination to share their stories and relate to one another.
Upchurch’s two-day visit will examine the intersections of heterosexism and racism. She will be speaking from 8 to 10 p.m. Wednesday at United Campus Ministries and from noon to 1 p.m. Thursday in 354 Baker University Center.
“I want to encourage students and faculty members to come and have a face-to-face conversation about these issues because it sheds light on personal experiences and stories of others,” Upchurch said. “The only way to make a difference is to understand and take action.”
kh845809@ohiou.edu
