Located in the University Center, the Intercultural Space is a hub for identity development, social justice education, community-building, empowerment, and allyship on campus. The creation of the Intercultural Space was spearheaded by student leaders, who called for “a space for dialogue on the topics of diversity, inclusion, and intersectionality on campus” (Proclamation P-19S-001 of the 106th Senate of the Student Government Association). Housing the Office of Student Culture and Belonging Lending Library, resources, and student art, this space is both a vibrant area for programming as well as a student-centered lounge. All are welcome.
Mission:
The mission of the Intercultural Space is to empower Stevens students to create a thriving and inclusive community by cultivating a supportive space for underrepresented students and their allies on campus to foster an understanding of diversity and inclusion. The Intercultural Space is open to all Stevens students. Students of any background, gender identity, expression, ethnicity, race, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, citizenship status, and physical or mental disability are welcome.
Vision:
The Intercultural Space is a place for dialogue, identity and leadership development, and creative programming on the topics of diversity, inclusion, and intersections of social identities and cultures on campus. A part of the Office of Student Culture and Belonging, the Intercultural Space provides resources to empower and support Stevens students. A hub for the ongoing efforts towards building a more diverse, inclusive and engaged community at Stevens, the Intercultural Space will promote cross-cultural connections, community-building, allyship, and ongoing learning.
Objectives:
The Intercultural Space aligns with the overarching objectives of the Office of Student Culture and Belonging:
Identity Development: Create opportunities to learn about social identities, their socio-historical context, intersections with others, and personal meaning
Social Justice Education: Foster cultural consciousness through ongoing learning about systems of power, identities, and innovative practices for inclusion and equity
Community-Building: Connect intracultural and intercultural communities through dialogues, multicultural celebrations, networking, and civic engagement
Empowerment: Support underrepresented students in developing the cultural capital (awareness of resources, access to knowledge, mentoring opportunities), sense of belonging, and validation needed to thrive at Stevens and beyond
Allyship: Cultivate a community of allies through expanding awareness of inequities, developing empathy and engaging in collaborative action