April is Autism Acceptance Month, a yearly observance to promote understanding, inclusion, and self-advocacy for autistic members of our community. At Michigan Technological University, we aim to go beyond awareness and actively celebrate the diversity of minds and perspectives that autistic students, faculty, and staff bring to our Husky family.
As we welcome March, we honor Women’s History Month—a time to celebrate the remarkable achievements and invaluable contributions of women trailblazers throughout history and at Michigan Technological University. This annual observance resonates deeply with our commitment to fostering an inclusive community where all individuals are empowered to excel.
Today marks the beginning of Black History Month. Observed annually in February, Black History Month stands as a testament to the rich tapestry of African American history, culture, and achievements. This month-long celebration serves as a powerful reminder of the struggles, triumphs, and contributions that have shaped the United States into the diverse and inclusive nation it is today. In this blog, we delve into the significance of this heritage month, its origins, and its alignment with the values upheld by institutions like Michigan Tech.
November is Native American Heritage Month, and like all of the United States, the Keweenaw Peninsula has been home to Indigenous peoples for thousands of years. The more recent inhabitants included those of several nations including the Dakota, Fox, and Menomonie. The most prominent nation in these lands before the incursion of Europeans was the Ojibwe. This heritage month is an opportunity for us to learn, share, and celebrate the culture of these first peoples.
For more than 30 years, we have marked our observance of Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM) with purple ribbons, awareness campaigns, and participation in local and national events. At Michigan Tech, purple ribbons around campus draw attention and awareness to the issues of domestic violence, domestic abuse, intimate partner violence, and relationship abuse. Student organizations also host events to raise awareness.
¡Hola!
My name is Gabriel Jesus Escobedo, but most people here at Michigan Tech call me Gabe. I am originally from Texas and identify as a Tejano. This is my first year as the Director of the Center for Diversity and Inclusion. I am also a PhD candidate studying Anthropology of Performing Arts and Dance with a minor in Latino Studies at Indiana University. The focus of my research is the intersectionality of dance and identity among US Latine youth. Just a few more chapters left and I will be Dr. Gabe.
This Pride Month, a few Michigan Tech faculty and staff from across campus gathered for a conversation on being queer in the Keweenaw.
In this roundtable Q&A, Amlan Mukherjee, Erin Matas, Kelly Steelman, Paige Short, and Tom Adolphs share their thoughts and experiences on the importance of representation, connections, and conversations during this heritage month and beyond.
Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month serves as an allegory for many Asian Americans as they ascertain their identities. Officially designated as Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month, public law 102-450 finally passed in 1992 after nearly 15 years of failed resolutions. Congress selected May as the official heritage month for Asian and Pacific Islanders to mark the anniversary of completing the transcontinental railroad on May 10, 1869. This tribute also stands as a reminder to many Asian Americans that, with the completion of the railroad, many of our predecessors weren’t met with thanks or applause but with dismissal, anti-Asian sentiment, and segregation. It wasn’t until 2014 that work began on a memorial in honor of the Chinese railroad workers, which was finally completed in 2018.
In April 2011, the Autism Society celebrated the first Autism Acceptance Month. Throughout the decades, Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) have received negative attention, and individuals with autism were portrayed as deficits to society. Thankfully, it’s become more accepted as one’s identity. In honor of April’s heritage month and the spirit of autism acceptance, I would like to share my journey as someone on the spectrum.
Deaf History Month, observed March 13 to April 15, is a celebration of the accomplishments of D/deaf* and hard-of-hearing individuals and Deaf culture. The month begins on March 13 with the anniversary of the founding of America’s first Deaf college, Gallaudet University. April 15 closes the month by honoring Gaulldet’s first Deaf president, King Jordan.