UNM Celebrates Native American Heritage Month with Community Potluck
In a vibrant celebration of culture and community, the University of New Mexico’s Health Sciences Office for Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (HSC DEI) is honoring Native American Heritage Month with a community potluck event. Scheduled for November 18 from 1 to 3 p.m., this gathering on the front lawn of the Health Sciences Library and Informatics Center promises to be a feast of Native and Indigenous-inspired dishes.
Encouraging Participation and Culminating in Community Spirit
The potluck invites students, faculty, and staff across UNM’s Health Sciences to not only participate but to actively contribute by bringing a dish that reflects Native traditions. Interested participants are encouraged to register their culinary offerings on smartsheet.com by November 17. Those seeking further information can reach out to the HSC DEI via hsc-diversity@salud.unm.edu.
Kathy Lopez, director of the HSC DEI, emphasizes the event’s role in fostering a sense of belonging and inclusivity within the university setting. “This potluck is more than just a meal—it’s about building community and understanding the diverse cultural tapestry that makes up our university,” she shares.
Local Impact: A Nod to Diversity and Inclusion
Events like these resonate deeply in a region rich with Native heritage. The potluck is not just an opportunity for cultural exchange but a reminder of the ongoing importance of diversity and equity at UNM. Such initiatives help break barriers and encourage dialogues crucial to a harmonious campus environment.
Resident and alumna Sarah Yazzie reflects on her experiences with similar events. “In the past, these gatherings have opened up spaces for important conversations—between peers, between disciplines. It’s encouraging to see my culture embraced so openly,” she notes, underscoring the positive local impact of such celebrations.
Connecting the Dots: UNM’s Broader Commitment
UNM’s dedication to diversity doesn’t stop at Native American Heritage Month. The university has lined up a series of events, including a talk by the Southwest Hispanic Research Institute and a Faculty Lightning Lounge on November 19. Moreover, a “Landscape Fieldwork” lecture by Gareth Doherty reflects the interconnectedness of culture and education.
Meanwhile, the ¡Música del Corazón! event on November 16 by the John Donald Robb Musical Trust is set to highlight the musical richness embedded within the university’s community, ensuring a diverse cultural representation.
Looking Ahead: Strengthening Community Ties
With an eye towards the future, the potluck and other cultural events are pivotal in strengthening UNM’s commitment to accessibility, equity, and inclusion. As UNM expands its resources and services, the university remains focused on facilitating communication and accessibility across its community through active social media engagement and online directories.
However, the stakes are high. Maintaining a balance between inclusivity and representation demands continued investment in programs and policies that champion these ideals. Experts like Dr. Avery Jones from UNM highlight the importance of sustained efforts to ensure these initiatives are not just symbolic gestures. “Our goal should always be to institutionalize inclusivity, making it a core aspect of our identity at UNM,” she asserts.
A Call to Action
As the date of the potluck approaches, anticipation builds around campus. For those interested in joining or spectating, the potluck is more than an event; it is a call to action, an invitation to embrace and celebrate the vibrant diversity that shapes UNM.
Community members wishing to extend their involvement or inquire about more upcoming events can explore the various resources available through UNM’s platforms, including their robust presence on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.
In reflection, the UNM community potluck affirms a collective commitment to diversity, inclusivity, and cultural celebration, profoundly impacting both residents and participants alike. As UNM continues to foster this environment, it sets a precedent for other institutions, embodying the principles of equity and understanding in all its endeavors.
