3 Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

The Psychology Program believes that Psychology is a major in which any Bard student can succeed, and we strive to make the Program one in which students in all courses feel like they belong. The Program believes that diversity is a vital foundation for innovation, leadership, and cultural awareness, and we strive to create an inclusive and accessible environment through continual efforts in pedagogy, curriculum, and advising. We aim to foster a welcoming environment that represents opportunities for all students through inclusive representation and promotion of voices historically marginalized because of such factors as race, ethnicity, sex, gender, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, religion, nationality, immigration status, age, political affiliation, and physical ability.

We recognize that Bard College exists within systemic patterns of cultural and economic oppression that have denied certain groups equal access to education and power. To be a genuinely equitable community, we must welcome and enact change and transformation, and we commit to the continual creation and strengthening of opportunities for equal access both in and outside of the classroom. This commitment necessitates that we create a community that encourages the expression of diverse perspectives, supports learning and work that is free from discrimination and harassment, promotes inclusion and respect, and regularly evaluates progress toward meeting diversity goals.

Supporting a diverse and inclusive environment is everyone’s responsibility. The Program takes seriously our own role in actively contributing to social equality, empowering individuals to share their unique experiences, challenging stereotypes, promoting critical thinking skills, and becoming engaged citizens.

• We will continue teaching courses highlighting systemic inequalities, integrating this content into our other courses, and introducing new courses that respond to the impact of racism, stigma, and inequality.

• We will incorporate inclusive teaching practices in our courses, and encourage students in all classes to treat one another with dignity and respect.

• We commit to auditing our syllabi to increase readings from researchers of all backgrounds.

• We work to create inclusive environments in our courses.