Diversity Statement

As an African American male, I am aware of some of the challenges of marginalized people in America. People of color, women, different faith beliefs, those on the lower end of the economic spectrum, sexual orientation, and disabilities both physical and mental can be negatively impacted because of their distinct differences. As technology continues to support the ease and reality of a global community, the need for understanding, and respect of those characteristics which make us different, unique, as well as the unifying qualities we all share as human beings, must take a prominent position in our societies, particularly in the realm of higher education. The arts have always been a unifying force, breaking down manufactured barriers and divisions. All people can find enjoyment, inspiration, comfort, and knowledge in music, dance, theatre, and the visual arts. The theatre as a form of story telling, and preserving history, has more responsibility and opportunity to be all-inclusive, so that all people’s stories and histories are told and preserved.

As a teaching artist with the New York University’s Creative Arts Team, I was able to tour the five boroughs of New York City’s public school districts. This allowed me to work with students of various ethnic, cultural, religious, and economic backgrounds. The company performed at the recently designated high school for LGBTQ youths. The school was established because of the bullying and persecution these young people were subjected to in their neighborhood public schools. It was clear to me that these young people were thriving in an environment that was not discriminatory, but supportive and empowering. The experience stressed the importance of inclusion in the development of a healthy sense of self.

I have also had experience working with an autistic student in a musical theatre camp in Los Angeles. The parents of the young man were very impressed with the way their son experienced the supportive creative environment. They acknowledged significant growth in his ability to socialize with the other students and truly feel a part of the program.

In my Art of the Theatre class at Kent State, the curriculum includes play selections and histories of the theatre from African American, Asian and Asian American, LatinX, Native American, and LGBTQ+ communities. This kind of multi cultural exposure is crucial in developing civic minded and inclusive orientated students.

As a teacher in higher education, I acknowledge the need and continue to create a healthy inclusive classroom that promotes respect and understanding of our unique differences, while celebrating our common shared experiences as human beings.