The Social Justice Dialogues Cohort Experience (SJDCE) at UMBC invites participants from all perspectives and experiences to engage in meaningful conversations across difference. Rooted in intergroup dialogue theory, SJDCE provides a space to learn and practice the skills, tools, and mindsets necessary for effective communication across diverse identities and lived experiences — with courage, empathy, and openness.
The Social Justice Dialogue Cohort Experiences at UMBC are 8 two-hour dialogue circles that bring together students, faculty, and staff, to engage in sustained, facilitated dialogue across difference. Each cohort meets weekly within one of UMBC's vibrant cultural centers: The Mosaic, The Pride Center, and The Gathering Space.
In a time of growing polarization and deepening social divides, and fear surrounding living authentically, the Social Justice Dialogues Cohort Experience (SJDCE) offers a way forward, not through debate or persuasion, but through connection, listening, and shared learning.
Cohorts will be split between faculty/staff and students (both undergraduate and graduate), allowing participants to forge meaningful relationships with peers similarly passionate about social change, leadership and humanizing pedagogies.
Students interested in applying for the pilot program can do so here. Additionally, faculty and staff can nominate students by emailing csjdialogue@umbc.edu by March 10.
Faculty and staff can apply here. Applications are due by March 12.
This is a pilot that is a part of a larger research project, meaning cohort sizes are limited and the 2026 sessions will be used to collect data for assessment purposes.
These events are open for full participation by all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, or any other protected category under applicable federal law, state law, and the University's nondiscrimination policy.
To view the original myUMBC post click the link below:
https://my3.my.umbc.edu/groups/csjd/posts/157087
Inclusive Excellence in Action Series
Spring 2025
Join us for Inclusive Excellence in Action, a dynamic monthly series highlighting key belonging, inclusion, full participation, and relevant social justice areas, practices, and behaviors at UMBC. Held virtually on Wednesdays, these two-hour sessions provide an opportunity to learn from campus experts in the Division of Institutional Equity, and many other campus and community partners.
Each session will offer practical insights into the work in these areas, share valuable resources, and equip participants with actionable skills and behaviors to foster inclusivity in their personal and professional lives. This engaging series will inspire and empower our community to implement inclusive excellence daily.
Dates: February 11, March 11, April 8, and May 13
Format: Virtual, two-hour sessions
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February 11, 2025 - Leading with Empathy: An Interactive Workshop
Presented by: Office of Equity and Civil Rights
In this interactive, skills-based workshop, participants will gain practical tools for responding with empathy to disclosures of discrimination, harassment, hate, and bias. Topics covered include:
Policies and procedures that guide the work of the Office of Equity & Civil Rights
Key definitions relating to sex discrimination, sex-based harassment, and sexual misconduct, hate, bias, and discrimination
Strategies for incorporating evidence-based, trauma-informed practices in the immediate aftermath of a disclosure
RSVP Here: https://my3.my.umbc.edu/groups/doie/events/137101
Webex Number: 2870 340 8426; Password: IEIASP2024
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March 11, 2025 - Supporting Religious Practice and Pluralism on Campus
Presented by: Initiatives for Identity, Inclusion & Belonging (i3b)
In this interactive, skills-based workshop, participants will explore strategies for fostering a campus environment that supports religious practice, spiritual well-being, and pluralism. Through discussions, case studies, and collaborative problem-solving, attendees will gain insights into UMBC's commitment to religious inclusion and practical tools to navigate real-world scenarios.
Topics covered include:
Understanding the policies and resources available to support religious practice on campus.
Practical approaches to addressing and accommodating religious needs in academic settings.
Building confidence in fostering religious pluralism through inclusive practices.
RSVP here: https://my3.my.umbc.edu/groups/doie/events/137104
Webex Number: 2869 659 0750; Password: IEIASP2024
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April 8, 2025 - Disability Inclusion through Accessible Resources and Practices
Presented by: Accessibility and Disability Services
In this interactive, skills-based workshop, participants will gain practical tools to create a more accessible and inclusive campus environment. Led by the Accessibility and Disability Services team, this session will provide insights into supporting individuals with disabilities, implementing proactive, inclusive practices, and understanding the accommodation process.
Topics covered include:
When and how to refer individuals to appropriate disability support services.
Understanding the accommodation process and what to expect.
Meeting obligations under ADA and Section 504 and going beyond compliance to foster inclusion.
Practical steps to create accessible courses, events, and materials.
Building partnerships and allyship to increase accessibility across campus.
RSVP Here: https://my3.my.umbc.edu/groups/doie/events/137103
Webex Number: 2861 798 7578; Password: IEIASP2024
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May 13, 2025 - Cultivating Radical Love & Belonging at UMBC
Presented by: Community and Culture
This workshop introduces participants to ideas and practices for building the Beloved Community at UMBC. The Beloved Community framework embraces inclusion and fosters equity by inviting everyone to participate in culture change and community-building work.
Topics covered include:
Making connections between Inclusive Excellence and Beloved Community
Exploring the 10 principles of beloved community and their applicability on a college campus
Exploring UMBC best practices that contribute to beloved community
Beloved Community Pledge
RSVP Here: https://my3.my.umbc.edu/groups/doie/events/137105
Webex Number: 2861 464 4692; Password: IEIASP2024
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This event is open for full participation by all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, or any other protected category under applicable federal law, state law, and the University's nondiscrimination policy.