Make a Difference Through Activism at NYU: Part 3

Since its founding in 1831, NYU has been an epicenter of social movements and political progress. Furthermore, the university community constantly grows and evolves as it works toward better prioritizing diversity, inclusion, and equity in New York City and across the globe. With several university-led events and initiatives, NYU dedicates its resources to creating a more just world for all.

One way NYU focuses on building a compassionate, inclusive, and action-oriented community is through One Zone. It is a series of interactive group training sessions that explore identity, diversity, and belonging. In fact, One Zone is open to the entire NYU community, from students and faculty to administrators and staff. Also, it creates a safe space for conversations on a variety of topics. Some topics include faith, disability, consent, sustainability, and mindful living.

“These trainings take the weight off of marginalized communities who often have to educate others on their own,” says Valeria Hidalgo. A Global Liberal Studies major, Valeria attended UndocuZone. It is a One Zone training that focuses on the issues and challenges the undocumented community experiences. “Whether undocumented or disabled, marginalized communities are already fighting against discrimination. One Zone gives us the chance to learn more about these topics without it being the communities’ job to do the teaching,” she shares.

In addition to One Zone, NYU supports numerous other initiatives focused on creating a more inclusive community, city, and world.

• The Center for Multicultural Education and Programs offers resources and programming that engages, supports, empowers, and celebrates students of historically marginalized and excluded groups.
• The Changemaker Center offers resources and programming to help students build the skills, knowledge, and networks to take action on issues that matter.
• The LGBTQ+ Center was founded in 1996 to meet the needs of and provide resources and programming to NYU’s LGBTQ+ community.
• MLK Week brings the university community together to imagine and work toward a future where all historically marginalized communities can thrive.
• The NYU Prison Education Program is a college-in-prison program that expands access to higher education within communities impacted by the criminal justice system.
• The Office of Global Inclusion, Diversity, and Strategic Innovation provides expert consultation, resources, and innovative strategies to help guide the NYU community toward a more inclusive future.
• The Office of Sustainability focuses on building a healthier and more sustainable future for all and leads the University’s efforts to achieve carbon neutrality by 2040.
• NYU’s annual Solidarity Week creates opportunities for our community to deepen their understanding of the experiences of others and raise awareness of the injustices that impact many in our society.