Pratt Institute: Fostering Diversity Through Art and Conversation

Growing up in a small town, diversity was not something that I was exposed to on a regular basis. It wasn't until I started high school that I truly began to understand the importance of diversity and inclusion in creating an enriching and dynamic community. This realization came to me through an unlikely source - my involvement in the school's drama club.

Being a part of the drama club introduced me to a variety of students from different backgrounds and experiences. I remember one particular production where we were working on a play that addressed issues of race and discrimination. As a predominantly white school, this was a topic that many of us had little exposure to. However, through the process of rehearsing and discussing the play, I was able to learn and empathize with the experiences of my fellow cast members who had faced discrimination in their lives.

This experience not only opened my eyes to the importance of diversity and inclusion, but it also influenced my artistic practice. I realized the power that the arts have in fostering understanding and promoting dialogue about important social issues. I saw how a simple play could challenge preconceived notions and ignite conversations that had the potential to create change. From that moment on, I became passionate about using my artistic abilities to promote diversity and inclusion.

When I discovered Pratt Institute, I was drawn to its commitment to diversity and creating an inclusive campus community. I knew that this was the perfect environment for me to continue exploring and expanding my understanding of different cultures and perspectives. I wanted to be a part of a community where everyone's voice was valued and where collaboration and learning from one another was encouraged.

As I envision my time at Pratt Institute, I see myself taking an active role in fostering a diverse and inclusive environment. One way in which I plan to contribute is through my artwork. I believe that art has the power to transcend language and cultural barriers, and I want to create pieces that celebrate and highlight the beauty of diversity. I want my artwork to challenge the viewer's perception of what is "normal" or "acceptable" and to promote a sense of empathy and understanding.

Additionally, I plan to get involved in student organizations and initiatives that aim to promote diversity and inclusion on campus. I want to collaborate with other students to organize events and workshops that celebrate different cultures and perspectives. I want to create spaces where students from all backgrounds feel welcomed and valued.

Furthermore, I believe that fostering a diverse and inclusive environment goes beyond just celebrating differences; it also requires actively seeking out opportunities for dialogue and understanding. I plan to engage in conversations with my peers, faculty, and staff to gain a deeper understanding of their experiences and to challenge my own biases and assumptions. I want to create a culture of open-mindedness and respect, where differences are not only accepted but embraced.

In conclusion, my personal experiences with diversity and inclusion have influenced my perspective and artistic practice in profound ways. I have come to understand the power of the arts in fostering understanding and promoting change. At Pratt Institute, I plan to contribute to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment through my artwork, involvement in student organizations, and engaging in conversations that promote understanding and collaboration. I am excited to be a part of a community that values diversity and to use my talents to make a positive impact.