Diversity club, a club recently created at MHS, pushes for an expanding awareness of social injustice based on a person’s race, religion, culture, etc. Its goal is to empower and encourage minority communities within Madison to share their voices. Zula Oliveira, Vice President of Diversity Club creates exciting, meaningful activities for the students to do while becoming more aware of privilege.

This month is Black History Month and Diversity Club is taking strides to create awareness of it everyday. Every week on the morning announcements, a speaker from Diversity Club shares facts about an important African American in our history. At the end of each week, they play a fun trivia game in the lobby using the facts shared throughout the week and winners receive a yummy treat! Additionally, the club shows and discusses black sitcoms weekly. Not only do they bring awareness about notable African Americans, but they also celebrate Latino and Hispanic Heritage Month and traditions linked to Asian cultures.

Considering Madison’s largely homogenous racial demographic, I asked Zula if she had ever experienced resistance to the tenants of Diversity Club. Zula responded, “ Last week we issued a survey about Diversity Club for the student body and not one person seemed ‘opposed’ to us simply trying to spread awareness and start more conversations about social injustice.”

I inquired about the faculty and was surprised by her response. “I believe they could be more aware of racial injustice within our community. I think we need to reach teachers beyond the Humanities Department and encourage collaboration with the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) teachers.”

  Zula added that she would like “for more people to come to our meetings. They are eye-opening and we share how we all experience racial microaggressions. I learn something new every meeting about someone’s cultural experiences. I want the MHS community to know that you are not required to align yourself with a single set of views. Also, we welcome new members so we can discuss our different opinions and address misconceptions!”