I Am RRC
We believe that what we’re doing is working when it comes to fostering an environment where our diversity is one of our greatest strengths, but we also believe we can and must do more to expand and enhance initiatives supporting our College community, as well as acknowledge and celebrate the unique differences that makes Red River Colleges so special.
This month we’re asking Red River College staff and students to declare their diversity via an online form. Here’s why some of your friends and peers are making their voices heard:
“It is important to declare my personal identity to remember my humble beginnings in life. This platform enables me to be proud of who I am. I have been beaten and bullied for the way I look, the way I speak, and the way I am. However, through this campaign, I have an opportunity to accept that I do not have to be embarrassed to be myself.”
Vassanthanathan Aruljothi
College and Public Relations
“I am a proud Anishinaabe, Inninew and Métis woman. I want people to know that I am proud of my heritage and that I play a significant role in creating training and employment opportunities for students. I also want to help demystify stereotypes. I am Indigenous, I am educated, and I am making a difference.”
Rebecca Chartrand
Executive Director, Indigenous Strategy
“It is important for all people to declare who they are. By doing this, we are embracing diversities, appreciating differences and acknowledging our various roles in life. As an Asian woman and working professional, I want to be a supportive and visible piece of our diverse and beautiful community. I appreciate others’ differences, just as others appreciate my uniqueness.”
Jenny Wang
International Project/Student Recruitment Officer
Centre for International Education and Global Partnerships
“As a new Canadian citizen, I know firsthand the benefits of diversity and inclusion. I love all the diversity at the College. I think it is beautiful and fascinating. I represent a little piece of this diversity and I want to learn about everyone else.”
Margarita Natcheva
International Student Support Representative
Centre for International Education and Global Partnerships
“As a woman with invisible disabilities, I want to help end the stigma that others may face. RRC gives me the ability to pursue a post-secondary education without having to worry about potential barriers. I’m proud to identify the way that I do. This is me, take it or leave it.”
Melissa Ghidoni
Vice-President External, RRC Students’ Association
Student, Business Administration
“As an Indigenous young adult, I have been afraid of being judged and stereotyped because of my background for so long. However, I’ve realized that it does not matter. Being Indigenous doesn’t change how I treat my neighbors. I believe our own intentions affect not only others but also ourselves. Self-awareness is important for self-growth.”
Wanita C. Masakeyash
Student, Indigenous Language–Cree and Justice and Public Safety
If you’d like to self-declare your diversity, please check your RRC email. An invitation with a link to the form was sent to you there. Or contact Priyani Mediwake, Diversity and Inclusion Specialist.
