Wayne State University School of Medicine remains committed to maintaining an educational and professional environment that is free of all forms of harassment and discrimination. Recent events related to a student finding a symbol used to convey fear and hate among certain groups has spurred dialogue on what safe spaces are, and where our students, faculty and staff can turn for support.
What is a safe space and where can I find one at the Wayne State University School of Medicine?
A safe space is intended to be free of bias, conflict, criticism or potentially threatening actions, ideas or conversations. The Wayne State University School of Medicine’s Office of Diversity and Inclusion, located in Suite 1374 on the first floor of Scott Hall, is a safe space where any faculty, students or staff may walk in and share without fear of retribution.
Who on the medical campus is trained to listen to my concerns or support me when needed?
The school strives to create a safe and supportive learning environment. Staff members of the Office of Diversity and Inclusion are trained to be active listeners, versus listening to respond, a key component in being a safe space facilitator. Four staff members also have special training in Ally support for LGBTQ+ inclusivity and advocacy.
For students specifically, the Institutional Justice and Inclusion Committee of the WSU School of Medicine Student Senate publicizes and curates avenues, spaces, meetings and workshops for students to engage in conversations about awareness. The goal is to facilitate the training of students, faculty and staff on facilitation of conversations about race, gender, socioeconomic status, gender expression, religion, legal status and other identifiers that impact how individuals experience the world. Visit https://www.wsusomstudentsenate.com/institutional-justice-and-inclusion for more information on the committee.
The Office of Diversity and Inclusion also offers dialogue circles at various times throughout the year. A dialogue circle is an intentional safe space created to discuss difficult issues and involves a process that provides an equal voice to all participants.
“Dialogues are a powerful vehicle for establishing a climate and culture of inclusivity at the School of Medicine,” said Office of Diversity and Inclusion Director De’Andrea Matthews, D.R.E. “The audience has been for medical students in the past; however, staff have expressed the need to have their own dialogue circle, which we are exploring.”
Dates are forthcoming for 2020, and will be publicized through email, the Warrior Medicine newsletter and on social media.
What should I do if I find or see something?
Leave it alone. Call the Wayne State University Police immediately at 313-577-2222. Do not delay. The police will document the situation, and work with the Department of Facilities and Maintenance to eliminate the concern if needed.