APRIL 2024
Division of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion programming is open to everyone and campuswide participation is encouraged.
Study Abroad Pop-Up Advising
Tuesday, April 2, 9, 16, 23 | 1:30 p.m.-3:30 p.m. | Intercultural Diversity Center, 2100 Student Center
(Cultural Exploration/Educational Engagement)
Open to all UA students
Education Abroad hosts weekly pop-up advising sessions on studying abroad. The sessions are first-come, first-served walk-ins where students have the opportunity to meet one-on-one with an Education Abroad advisor. For more information, contact the Study Abroad office at studyabroad@ua.edu.
A Walk-Through Wounded Hearts Exhibit & Panel Discussion
Wednesday, April 3 | 11 a.m.-3 p.m.; panel discussion noon-1 p.m.
Intercultural Diversity Center, 2100 Student Center
(Educational Engagement)
Open to all UA students, faculty and staff and UA System employees
As part of Sexual Assault Awareness Month, the Women and Gender Resource Center will host A Walk-Through Wounded Hearts exhibit and panel. The exhibit is an art display of painted wooden hearts that were designed and created by students, staff and faculty members who have experienced sexual assault or are considered secondary victims of interpersonal violence. Each heart has a story from the artist about what their heart represents. Attendees will be able to view each heart and reflect on the survivors’ stories. Also, a panel will discuss the premises of the wounded hearts and share organizations available at UA and in Tuscaloosa County if a student experiences sexual assault. For more information, contact the Women and Gender Resource Center’s Jessica Ross Romine at jtrossromine@ua.edu.
‘Far East Deep South’ Film Screening and Discussion
Thursday, April 4 | 4 p.m.-6 p.m. | Room 30, ten Hoor Hall
(Cultural Exploration/Educational Engagement)
Open to all UA Students, Faculty, Staff & UA Systems
“Far East Deep South” is an award-winning feature documentary produced by Larissa Lam and Baldwin Chiu, a husband-wife music and filmmaking team based in Los Angeles. This documentary presents a personal and eye-opening perspective on race, immigration and American identity. It sheds light on the history of Chinese immigrants living in the American South during the late 1800s to mid-1900s through the emotional journey of Charles Chiu and his family and explores the interconnected relationship between the Black and Chinese communities. This event is sponsored by the College of Arts and Sciences, the UA departments of History, Asian Studies and American Studies, and the Division of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. For more information, contact Dr. Di Luo at dluo10@ua.edu.
Nathan Childers MFA Exhibition
April 5-May 3 | 9 a.m.-4 p.m. | The University of Alabama Gallery in the Dinah Washington Cultural Arts Center, Tuscaloosa
Reception: Friday, April 5 | 5-7 p.m.
The UA Department of Art and Art History presents the Master of Fine Arts thesis exhibition of Nathan Childers, titled “Still Lives.” Childers writes that this exhibition is “an invitation into the home of a couple who feel the impact of current anti-queer backlash in the United States. These paintings in oil on panel bring together figures and the interior spaces they inhabit in order to evoke a sense of stillness. The feeling of quiet contemplation is born equally of the couple’s tranquil companionship and the reality that their lives are on pause in the face of social pressures.”
Read more about the exhibition.
International Asexuality Day Discussion
Friday, April 5 | 3 p.m.-4 p.m. | Safe Zone Student Lounge, 2418 Student Center
(Cultural Exploration/Educational Engagement/Social Enrichment)
Open to all UA students
For International Asexuality Day, the Safe Zone Resource Center will have information on asexuality, and asexual pride pins will be available in the lounge all day. The drop-in event promotes asexuality awareness and allows students, faculty and staff with asexual identities to see their identities celebrated. To wrap up the day, Safe Zone will host a discussion on the nuances of asexuality. Attendees will learn about asexuality as a sexual orientation. For more information, contact the Safe Zone Resource Center at safezone@ua.edu.
‘Eugene Martin: The Creative Act – An Exhibition from the LSU Museum of Art’
Continues through May 3 | Paul R. Jones Museum, 2308 Gary Fitts (Sixth) Street, Tuscaloosa
Public reception: Friday, April 5 | 5 p.m.-8 p.m.
Born in Washington, D.C., Eugene James Martin (1938-2005) is known for creating a body of work defined by distinct stylistic periods, ranging from black and white ink drawings to colorful acrylic paintings and collages. Martin’s abstractions offer delights of color free from time and place. His whimsical collages and mixed media works filled with color and expression speak to the surrealist concept of automatism. Martin took courses at the Corcoran School of Art from 1960-1963, and lived in D.C., North Carolina, and spent the last decade of his life in Louisiana. Before his death, he held many solo exhibitions including at Duke University; Horace Williams House, Chapel Hill, NC; Michel Rooryk Gallery, Ghent, Belgium; and Municipal Gallery, Washington, D.C. Read more about the artist and his exhibit.
7th Annual Tuscaloosa Heritage Festival
April 7 | 2 p.m.-4 p.m. | Tuscaloosa River Market, 1900 Jack Warner Parkway
Hosted by the West Alabama Multicultural Alliance, the 7th annual Tuscaloosa Heritage Festival is an interactive and engaging celebration of diverse cultures. Participants can enjoy a variety of food, entertainment and activities as well as door prizes. Admission is free. Those interested in lending a helping hand and being a part of making this event a success should contact Shayla Smith at 205-348-3619.
TEDTalk Tuesday: The World Needs All Kinds of Minds
Tuesday, April 9 | Noon-1 p.m. | Intercultural Diversity Center, 2100 Student Center
(Cultural Exploration/Educational Engagement)
Open to all UA students, faculty and staff and UA System employee
In celebration of Autism Acceptance Month, the Intercultural Diversity Center continues its TEDTalk Tuesday series by featuring autism activist Temple Grandin. Autism Acceptance Month raises awareness to promote autism acceptance, celebrate individual differences and foster inclusivity and connectedness. Participants will learn about how Grandin’s mind works, the way she “thinks in pictures,” which helps her solve problems that neurotypical brains might miss, and the case why the world needs people on the autism spectrum. For more information, contact the Intercultural Diversity Center at ua_idc@ua.edu.
Crimson Culture Gala
Wednesday, April 10 | 5 p.m.-8 p.m. | Student Center Ballroom
Experience cultures from around the world and unity through cultural exchange at the annual Crimson Culture Gala. The event features cultural showcases, fashion shows, music, dance and food. RSVP to attend. The event is coordinated by the International Student Association.
The Sound of Silence: The Story Behind the Gallaudet Football Helmet
April 10 | 5:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m. | 1003 Lecture Hall, Drummond Lyon Hall
In recognition of Deaf History Month, the College of Human Environmental Sciences will host this event. Charles Goldstein, head football coach and assistant athletic director for Gallaudet University will talk about the collaboration between Gallaudet and AT&T that led to the creation of a football helmet that enables their Deaf and hard of hearing student-athletes to “level the playing field” with their hearing peers. The event is open to everyone.
Multi-Cultural Coffee Hour
Friday, April 12 | 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. | Intercultural Diversity Center, 2100 Student Center
(Cultural Exploration/Educational Engagement/Social Enrichment)
Open to all UA students, faculty and staff and UA System employees
International Student and Scholar Services and the Intercultural Diversity Center host weekly coffee hours for students, faculty and staff to enjoy free coffee, tea, snacks and conversation with others from around the world. For more information, contact the International Student and Scholar Services at international@ua.edu.
Ukrainian Easter Traditions
Friday, April 12 | 4 p.m.-5 p.m. | 3114 Morris Mayer Room, Student Center
The Ukrainian faculty in the College of Arts and Sciences will share the rich cultural tapestry of Ukraine this Easter season. Participants are invited to immerse themselves in the customs, rituals and traditions of Ukrainian Easter celebrations.
The Africa Ball 2024
Saturday, April 13 | 11 a.m.-3 p.m. | First Baptist Church, Tuscaloosa
This event is hosted by the African Students Association. The theme for 2024 is “One Africa,” focusing on the love, unity and diversity of African students at The University of Alabama. Click this link to get your tickets.
Day of Silence
Monday, April 15 | 9 a.m.-5 p.m. | Safe Zone Student Lounge, 2418 Student Center
(Cultural Exploration/Education Engagement)
Open to all UA students, faculty and staff and UA System employees
Day of Silence is a national student-led demonstration where LGBTQ students and allies around the country and the world take a vow of silence to protest the harmful effects of harassment and discrimination of LGBTQ people in schools. Safe Zone Resource Center will provide participants with printed Day of Silence cards that outline why they are taking the vow of silence for the day. Participants will learn about LGBTQIA+ bullying and harassment, as well as ways they can support LGBTQIA+ youth. For more information, contact the Safe Zone Resource Center at safezone@ua.edu.
Keys of Student Success
Monday, April 15 | 2 p.m.-3 p.m. | Intercultural Diversity Center, 2100 Student Center
(Educational Engagement)
Open to all UA students
Sponsored by the Intercultural Diversity Center and the Capstone Center for Student Success this program offers students a firsthand opportunity to connect with peer coaches, learn about various academic resources, and additional ways to succeed through printed materials and worksheets. Keys to Student Success occurs monthly on third Mondays. For more information, contact the Intercultural Diversity Center at ua_idc@ua.edu.
TEDTalk Tuesday: How to Make Stress Your Friend
Tuesday, April 16 | Noon-1 p.m. | Intercultural Diversity Center, 2100 Student Center
(Cultural Exploration/Educational Engagement)
Open to all UA students, faculty and staff and UA System employees
In preparation for final exams, the Intercultural Diversity Center concludes its Spring TEDTalk Tuesday series by featuring psychologist Kelly McGonigal. She shares how stress has been made into a public health enemy and how new research suggests that stress may only be bad if it is believed it to be bad. McGonigal introduces a new perspective to see stress as a positive and presents an unsung mechanism for stress reduction by simply reaching out to others. For more information, contact the Intercultural Diversity Center at ua_idc@ua.edu.
Global Cafe End of the Year Celebration
Tuesday, April 16 | 5 p.m.-6:30 p.m. | Capital Hall
Everyone is invited to the last Global Café evening of the semester, which will include a light meal and games. First-time visitors are welcome to this event, which is free for all. Capital Hall is the building next to the Randall Welcome Center on UA’s Bryce Campus. Attendees may take the Bryce 1 or Bryce 2 bus. Free parking is available. For more information, contact Global Café at global@ua.edu.
Coffee & Mental Health
Wednesday, April 17 | 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. | Intercultural Diversity Center, 2100 Student Center
(Educational Engagement/Social Enrichment)
Open to all UA students, faculty and staff and UA System employees
The Intercultural Diversity Center and the UA Counseling Center present Coffee and Mental Health where participants have an opportunity to speak with a therapist in a one-on-one setting. The program provides an environment for participants to ask questions, get to know a UA therapist, and learn about counseling as a student resource. In addition, the program offers a space for students to learn about the many mental wellbeing resources the counseling center has and ways they can connect with the counseling center. Coffee and Mental Health occurs monthly on third Wednesdays. For more information, contact the Intercultural Diversity Center at ua_idc@ua.edu.
Chinese Calligraphy Workshop
Thursday, April 18 | 4 p.m.-5 p.m. | 3107 Student Center
The Women and Gender Resource Center co-hosts a Chinese Calligraphy Workshop with special guests Dr. Doris Sung, Assistant Professor of Art History and Asian Art, and the Chinese Sisterhood of Tuscaloosa. Dr. Sung will provide background on the history of traditional Chinese calligraphy and TCS, as well as Dr. Sung will provide demonstrations and then attendees are free to try to create their own Chinese calligraphy.
Lavender Graduation Celebration
Thursday, April 18 | 5:30 p.m.-5 p.m. | Student Center Ballroom
Lavender Graduation Celebration, which is open to everyone, is an annual event that celebrates the accomplishments of UA graduates. This year’s keynote speaker will be Amanda Schuber, disability justice associate and minister. Schuber served in various capacities in the Unitarian Universalist Association for over 29 years, with expertise in an array of areas including facilitation, mental health and disability rights. Refreshments will be provided after the ceremony. Participants are asked to register. The event is sponsored by Capstone Alliance and the Queer Student Association.
Multi-Cultural Coffee Hour
Friday, April 19 | 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. |
Intercultural Diversity Center, 2100 Student Center
Featured country: Saudi Arabia
(Cultural Exploration/Educational Engagement/Social Enrichment)
Open to all UA students, faculty and staff and UA System employees
International Student and Scholar Services and the Intercultural Diversity Center host weekly coffee hours for students, faculty and staff to enjoy free coffee, tea, snacks and conversation with others from around the world. For more information, contact International Student and Scholar Services at international@ua.edu.
International Spouse Group
Friday, April 19 | 10 a.m. | Morris Mayer Room (3114), Student Center
The International Spouse Group brings together the spouses of international students, faculty, and staff for activities and interaction. At the International Spouse Group meetings, you can meet new friends, enjoy conversations, and share practical tips for living in Tuscaloosa and handling the challenges. For more information, contact the group at UofA.ISG@gmail.com or join the Facebook group.
EveryWoman Book Club: ‘Lessons in Chemistry’
Thursday, April 25 | Noon- 1 p.m. | Legend’s Bistro at Hotel Capstone
“Lesson in Chemistry” by Bonnie Garmus tells the story of Elizabeth Zott, who becomes a beloved cooking show host in 1960s Southern California after being fired as a chemist four years earlier. EveryWoman Book Club, which is sponsored by the Women and Gender Resource Center, is open to faculty, staff, graduate students and community members. Join the book club by emailing Elizabeth Lester, WGRC program coordinator.
Multi-Cultural Coffee Hour
Friday, April 26 | 11:30 a.m.- 1 p.m. | Intercultural Diversity Center, 2100 Student Center
Featured country: Turkey
(Cultural Exploration/Educational Engagement/Social Enrichment)
Open to all UA students, faculty and staff and UA System employees
International Student and Scholar Services and the Intercultural Diversity Center host weekly coffee hours for students, faculty and staff to enjoy free coffee, tea, snacks and conversation with others from around the world. For more information, contact International Student and Scholar Services at international@ua.edu.
UPCOMING
Nyansapo Kente Robing Ceremony
Wednesday, May 1 | 5 p.m. | Bryant Conference Center
The UA Black Faculty and Staff Association will host the Spring 2024 Nyansapo Kente Robing Ceremony, which is open to everyone. Nyansapo is a Ghanian symbol that means intelligence, ingenuity and patience. Kente is a ceremonial cloth used for occasions such as this one. The purpose of this event is to recognize and honor graduating students. RSVP deadline is Friday, April 26.
AAPI Graduation Celebration
Thursday, May 2 | 5 p.m.-7 p.m. | Student Center Theater
The UA Asian American and Pacific Islander Association will host a graduation celebration in the Student Theater followed by a reception in the Great Hall. The event is open to all. For more information about the UA’s AAPI community, follow the organization on UA_AAPI on Instagram or visit the organization’s website.
Hispanic-Latino Student Graduation Celebration
Thursday, May 2 | 5:30 p.m. | Student Center Ballroom
The Hispanic-Latino Association and the Latinx Faculty and Staff Association will host this event, which is open to everyone. Participants are asked to RSVP by April 26.