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Office for Social Justice and Diversity

Happy Chrismahanukwanzakah!

World AIDS Day, Inclusive Season’s Greetings…more!

Posted in: Discussion Groups, Inclusion News, Uncategorized, Upcoming Events

Happy Holidays Christmas Card Design with Close Up of Pine Tree Branch and Snow in the Woods in Background

Every December, many Americans prepare to celebrate the holiday season with their families and loved ones and engage in the age-old debate on whether to address people with “Happy Holidays” or “Merry Christmas.” Labeled as the “War on Christmas,” this debate has become a larger cultural and political battle and possibly even more so in today’s climate. However, acknowledging inclusive greetings will allow for us all to better enjoy the holiday season. Learn More.

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World AIDS Day 2022

December 1 was the day the world acknowledges the long-lasting impact of the HIV and AIDS epidemic on our global society. This year, the OSJD along with Daughta Speaks, Montclair State University’s Black LGBTQ+ Alliance, led a series of World AIDS Day events that encouraged the Montclair State community to #KnowYourStatus and #DipWithDaughta. Newark Beth Israel Medical Center offered free, rapid HIV testing in the afternoon, followed by a beginner’s vogue workshop led by Kalik B. of HBO Max’s hit TV competition show, “Legendary.” Login to Instagram and Watch the Recap!

Student studying.

Surviving the End of the Semester

Congratulations! You have made it to the final lap of the fall 2022 semester! It is natural to feel exhausted and out of steam by this point, but there is a break at the end of this tunnel. Allow the Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) team to provide you with six helpful tips to support you getting to the finish line:

  • Make a schedule and plan.
  • Reward yourself with breaks.
  • Practice self-care.
  • Be kind to yourself.
  • Remember the basics.
  • Set limits and boundaries.

You are not alone! We are always here to support you in any way we can. You Can Do It!

Season's Greetings text graphic.

Inclusive Season’s Greetings

Far too often people with disabilities feel voiceless and excluded during the excitement of the holiday season, but DREAM-MSU is here to encourage all Red Hawks to think twice about their family and friends who may need greater accessible options. Some suggestions include creating Silent Santa’s for people with sensory processing differences and when shopping, be mindful that handicapped spots in parking lots are not a luxury, it is a necessity to survive for those who need them. Get More Tips and Strategies!

Hand graphics.

Happy Human Rights Day!

Human Rights Day is observed every year on December 10, the day that the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948. The principles enshrined in the Declaration are as relevant today as they were in 1948. We need to continue to stand up for our own rights and those of others and take action daily to uphold the rights that protect us all. Read More.

Observance Calendars

In accordance with the Religious Holidays Policy and as a service to the entire university community, the Department of Religion and Center for Faith and Spirituality maintain an evolving religious observances calendar and interfaith observance calendar on their websites that is meant to serve as a scheduling and educational tool for instructors, staff and students. The calendar is not an endorsement of what is, or is not, considered a “religion” and will be periodically updated with the input of the University community. Questions or suggested additions may be directed to religiondept@montclair.edu or faithandspirituality@montclair.edu.

OSJD Community Calendar

Getting a head start on the spring 2023 semester? Join the Office for Social Justice and Diversity in pursuing a collaborative space for all history and heritage months coming up next semester. The OSJD Community Calendar strives to (1) provide a central location to seek identity and cultural-based events, (2) offer an outlet for greater collaboration and less siloed efforts and (3) increase the level of support offered to campus partners in acknowledgement of intersectionality. All events will be housed on the OSJD Calendar . Submit Your Events Today!