PSU committee considers requiring diversity classes

A proposal that would require PSU students to take a certain number of diversity credits in order to graduate is being reviewed by the university’s Academic Requirements Committee.

“The Diversity Initiative” proposal was spearheaded by the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) at PSU student group and is a joint effort between them and other student groups including the Black Cultural Affairs Board, the Association of African Students and student government President Rudy Soto.

It is possible for some students to graduate through the University Studies program without taking a single class on the subject of diversity, said Sheila Pete, president of the NAACP at PSU. The proposal suggests that all bachelor degree students take at least two diversity-related courses that focus on race and ethnicity in addition to other University Studies graduating requirements.

“The NAACP at PSU finds it unacceptable that students can graduate from such a diverse university with the same stereotypes and perceptions of groups of people learned from watching television,” the proposal states.

In 1992, PSU had a diversity requirement under its general education requirements, but in 2001 it was completely replaced by the University Studies requirements, according to the proposal.

“I am proud to support the NAACP,” said Associated Students of Portland State University President Rudy Soto. “I have been very concerned since having heard from mentors in University Studies who feel like our professors are carrying the burden of education about race and gender, when really there are better, more qualified professors available.”

Pete said the groups suggesting this proposal have spoken with University Studies Director Sukhwant Jhaj and he agreed that diversity courses should be a part of the program, but wouldn’t agree to any specific credit requirements.

Student voice about the proposal will be heard in the next few months, Pete said, and there will be Academic Requirements Committee hearing scheduled in the beginning of March to discuss the proposal.

“I commend the NAACP and I look forward to the dialogue that will follow,” Soto said. “I hope the University will be accountable to the needs of all students.”