Why is AUCC 1C Important?
AUCC 1C is described as courses that associate around “Diversity, Equity and Inclusion,” yet there are classes listed under this category that do not fit into the description. For AUCC to fit into its description, more classes surrounding diversity, equity, and inclusion must be offered.
1C classes as described are important as they teach students to recognize their biases and to understand differences. Proper inclusive, equal, and diverse education encourages a respectful and civil society by increasing awareness of these differences and their values. It challenges these stereotypes, biases, and discrimination throughout communities and education (ADL). Implementing proper education that reflects a diverse range of experiences and perspectives will allow for students to avoid biases and stereotypes, creating a more safe environment
Diversity in higher education pushes for role models, more inclusive and welcoming communities, equal opportunity, and invites different perspectives (Ayers, 2022).
In 1998 at Oregon State University, student activism had a positive impact on the DPD program (Difference, Power, and Discrimination program) . A successful protest, involving both students and faculty, was organized against the potential defunding of the program during university budget discussions. This included a student petition that pushes to keep DPD after multiple complaints and issues regarding multiple racially motivated incidents (DPD Oregon State, 2020).
The creation of an inclusive curriculum that recognizes and addresses institutionalized systems of inequity and privilege in the United States has been a focus for Oregon State University (DPD Oregon State, 2020).