Support an Illini’s Social Justice Journey with DSJE!

The Diversity & Social Justice Education office seeks fundings for two field trips aimed at enhancing university students’ understanding of diversity and social justice.

Field trip site #1: Chicago

This one-day immersive educational field trip to Chicago will enable students to visit different historical sites related to the social justice struggle in the Chicagoland area and meet with community leaders/advocates who work on these issues.

Stops can include anti-gentrification organizations in an ethnic enclave, immigration advocates, and community organizations who work to serve low-income and long-time residents in various Chicago neighborhoods.

We aim to take 25 students and 5 professional staff on this day trip. The funds requested will cover transportation, meals for the day, admission to venues that require it, and other necessary supplies.

Field trip site #2: Memphis

This immersive educational field trip will connect students with the rich tapestry of American history, highlighting the struggles and triumphs of the Civil Rights Movement by visiting the National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis, Tennessee.

We aim to take 25 students and 5 staff on a weekend trip to Memphis, Tennessee to visit a few historical sites. We will depart early Friday morning and visit a few local sites in Memphis. On Saturday, we will spend the day at the National Civil Rights Museum, and then depart for home on Sunday morning.

The funds requested will cover transportation, meals, hotel stay, and admission to the museum and other city stops on the tour. After each trip, students will be required to do reflective exercises which can include photo journals, essays, social media posts, etc.

Learning Objectives:

• Educational Enrichment: To deepen students’ knowledge of social justice movements and the historical context surrounding them.
• Cultural Awareness: To foster appreciation for diverse cultures and histories, promoting empathy and understanding among students.
• Critical Thinking: To encourage students to analyze historical events critically and draw connections to contemporary social justice issues.

#WithDSJE #InclusiveIllinois #JourneywithDSJE