In accordance with our diverse faculty profile, their culturally diverse research agendas, and the fundamental dedication of our department to multi-cultural perspectives on teaching, researching and safeguarding of the arts in all spheres of life, the Department of World Arts and Cultures/Dance is committed to advancing, sustaining and promoting campus diversity.

To further the role of UCLA as a premier public institution, we profoundly endorse its efforts to “effect change in the patterns of disadvantage and discrimination that are still so evident in our society,” as stated by the Chancellor. Differences in race, ethnicity, gender, age, religion, language, abilities/disabilities, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status and geographic region are aspects of this diversity mandate that have been especially important to our state of California, and a wellspring of its innovative ideas and creative accomplishments.

Making sure that our state’s citizenry from all backgrounds and persuasions “perceive that access to the university is possible for talented students, staff and faculty,” as stated in the University of California official diversity statement of June 30, 2006, is unequivocally endorsed by the Department of World Arts and Cultures/Dance, in order “to foster innovation and train future leadership…and help to sustain the social fabric of the State,” as that seminal declaration goes on to affirm. Indeed, given our program’s distinct academic mandate in this regard, our commitment to this pluralistic and inclusive model, always within the context of respectful, civil communication, constructive civic engagement and mutual respect, is absolutely foundational.

From the University of California Diversity Statement:

The diversity of the people of California has been the source of innovative ideas and creative accomplishment throughout the state’s history into the present. Diversity – a defining feature of California’s past, present, and future – refers to the variety of personal experiences, values, and worldviews that arise from differences of culture and circumstances. Such differences include race, ethnicity, gender, age, religion, language, abilities/disabilities, sexual orientation, gender identity, socioeconomic status, and geographic region, and more.

Because the core mission of the University of California is to serve the interests of the State of California, it must seek to achieve diversity among faculty, its student bodies, and among its staff.

We have a historic promise to recognize and nurture merit, talent, and achievement by supporting diversity– including removing barriers to the recruitment, retention, and advancement of talented students, faculty, and staff from historically excluded populations who are currently underrepresented.

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