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DEI & Alpha Phi

At Alpha Phi, we believe that diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) are fundamental to building a supportive and empowering sisterhood. Our chapter is committed to fostering an environment where all individuals feel welcomed, respected, and valued for who they are. We actively strive to embrace differences, create inclusive spaces, and promote equity through education, dialogue, and action. By prioritizing DEI, we aim to enrich our sisterhood with diverse perspectives and ensure every member feels empowered to thrive both personally and academically.

Initiatives

  • DEI Book Club to read about diverse perspectives

  • Monthly service project challenge

    • Examples:

      • March: Created dog toys using donated T-shirts and donated them to a shelter

      • April: Collected women’s hygiene products and donated them to Peaceful Paths

  • Monthly street cleanups to clean our street

  • Self-defense class during women’s history month

  • Monthly fireside chats to give sisters time to vent and de-stres

  • DEI Calendar to avoid planning events on holidays

  • DEI facts at chapter

    • Example: Remember the days before call waiting and caller ID? Caller ID is thanks to the research of Dr. Shirley Jackson. She was the first Black woman to earn a doctorate from MIT.

DEI Resources

De-stressing during finals

  • Take study break​

  • Take short breaks to grab a coffee, a filling snack, or walk around the block

  • Be kind to your mind

  • Take time to light a candle, read a comfort book, or watch a show to unwind at the end of the day

  • Be gentle

  • Doing what you can is what matters. You finished and that’s worth celebrating!

  • Tips

    • Do not forget to take care of yourself this week.

    • Eat good quality meals

    • Sleep at least 8 hours

    • Treat yourself with kindness

    • Remember it’s okay to ask for help

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Ways to stay informed about anti-semitism

  • Educate Yourself

    • Learn more about anti-semitic myths and stereotypes

    • Read news accounts and opinion pieces about both the history of anti-Semitism and its current manifestations

    • Avoid Stereotypes

    • Avoid using anti-Jewish language or making references to Jewish stereotypes

    • Diplomatically bring such stereotypes to the attention of others when they engage in such behavior
      Speak Out

    • Speak out against anti-Semitic jokes and slurs. Silence can send the message that such humor and derogatory remarks are acceptable.

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Black History Month

  • Black History Month is an annual celebration of achievements by African Americans and a time for recognizing their central role in U.S. history. Since 1976, every U.S. president has officially designated the month of February as Black History Month.

  • At UF Alpha Phi, we strive to constantly educate and empower our members on black history and culture, as well as celebrate its importance not only this month but year-round.

  • Ways to Participate:

    • Learn

      • Watch a documentary about the Black experience

      • Add some new podcasts to your queue. Podcasts are a great way to learn new things and hear from diverse voices

      • Learn more about Black leaders throughout history

    • ​Take Action

      • Support Black-owned businesses! Attend a Black History Month event or parade. There will be a number of events, learning opportunities, celebrations, and more in your community throughout February

      • Donate to Black-led organizations and nonprofits in your community. Keep Black history alive and do your part to support those in your community today by making a donation.
        Celebrate

      • Attend a Black History Month event or parade

      • If you can't make it out or want to try a virtual option, the Library of Congress and other national organizations have a variety of panels, live streams, digital exhibits, and more you can add to your calendar

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Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month

  • May is dedicated to honoring Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage. This observance acknowledges and celebrates the valuable contributions and profound impact of Asian Americans and Pacific Islander Americans on history and culture.

  • Ways to Celebrate:

    • Support an AAPI-owned business
      Watch a podcast by an AAPI creator
      Visit an art gallery featuring art by AAPI artists
      Read books by AAPI authors

  • Resources:

    • Support the End of AAPI Hate: https://stopaapihate.org/
      AAPI Website: https://www.asianpacificheritage.gov/
      AAPI Civic Engagement Fund: https://aapifund.org/

    • Books:

      • Minor Feelings by Cathy Park Hong

      • America is in the Heart by Carlos Bulosan

      • No-No Boy by John Okada

    • ​Podcasts:

      • Tigerbelly with Bobby Lee

      • They Call Us Bruce with Phil Yu

      • Long Distance with Paola Mardo

      • 2 Khmerican Sisters with Mellissa & Jasmine Nguon

    • Local AAPI-owned Restaurants:

      • ​If It Is Kitchen (@ifitisgainesville)

        • 104 S Main St, Gainesville, FL 32601

      • Beque Holic (@bgholic)
        • 3812 Newberry Rd, Gainesville, FL 32607

      • Dragonfly Sushi (@dragonfly-gainesville)
        • 201 SE 2nd Ave #104, Gainesville, FL 32601

 

​​Jewish American Heritage Month

  • ​​Jewish American Heritage Month is an annual observance in the United States that celebrates the contributions, achievements, and cultural heritage of Jewish Americans during the month of May. It is celebrated to increase awareness and understanding of Jewish American history, culture, and traditions and provides an opportunity to recognize the significant impact Jewish Americans have had on various aspects of American society including art, literature, science, business, politics, and philanthropy.​

 

  • Resources:

  • Books:

    • Lost & Found by Kathryn Schulz

    • The Golem of Brooklyn by Adam Mansbach

    • Sam by Allegra Goodman

    • The Secret of Clouds by Alyson Richman

  • Podcasts:

    • Can We Talk? With Nahanni Rous, Judith Rosenbaum, and Ibby Caputo

    • Big Shot with Harley Finkelstein and David Segal 

    • Success by Design with Elizabeth Sutton

 

Pride Month

  • Pride Month is an annual celebration observed in many countries around the world during the month of June. It is a time dedicated to honoring and supporting the LGBTQ+ community, as well as promoting equality, acceptance, and love for all individuals regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Pride Month is a reminder of the historical struggles faced by the LGBTQ+ community and the progress that has been made towards achieving equal rights and representation.
  • Ways to Celebrate:

    • Support an LGBTQ+ owned business

    • Attend a local pride parade!

    • Watch a podcast by an LGBTQ+ creator

    • Visit an art gallery featuring art by an LGBTQ+ artist

    • Read books by LGBTQ+ authors

  • Resources:

  • Books:
    • the verifiers by jane pek
      giovann's room by james baldwin

    • Memorial by bryan washington

    • Birthday by meredith russo

    • Fairest by meredith talusan

    • All boys arent blu by george m. johnson

  • LGBTQ+ owned brands:
  • Reflecting on what it means to be a part of the lgbtq+ community: quotes from our members

    • "Being a part of the LGBTQ community means being with people who love and respect every part of you. It means always having a family to turn to when you need help or someone to talk to, because everyone understands how hard it can be sometimes. It means finding joy and unity in being who you truly are."

    • "Being part of the LGBTQ+ community is knowing there are people out there who love and accept me for how I identify. No matter what happens, there will always be this community striving to have our voices heard and understood."

Juneteenth

  • Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day or Emancipation Day, is an annual celebration observed on June 19th in the United States. It commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans. Juneteenth symbolizes the end of slavery in the United States and highlights the ongoing struggle for equality and justice. Juneteenth encourages conversations about racial equality and serves as a reminder of the importance of social justice in our society.

  • Resources:

  • Celebrate Juneteenth Events happening in Gainesville!

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Hispanic Heritage Month

  • Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated from September 15th to October 15th and is a time of vibrant cultural festivities and reflection on the rich contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans to the United States. This annual observance honors the diverse and dynamic tapestry of traditions, languages, and histories of the Hispanic community. Through events, exhibitions, and educational programs, people of all backgrounds can come together to celebrate and learn from the rich heritage of the Hispanic community, promoting unity and highlighting the strength that comes from embracing our differences.

 

Native American Heritage Month

  • Native American Heritage Day takes place every year the day after Thanksgiving. It honors Native Americans nationwide and recognizes their cultures, traditions, heritage, and contributions. It is an opportunity for all Americans to learn about the history of Native Americans, their present-day conditions, and their rich cultural legacy.
    Native American Heritage Day encourages everyone to listen to Native American voices and show pride for their vibrant heritage that is embedded within
    our society.

  • How can we celebrate:

    • Read books written by Indigenous authors and poets

    • Learn about the challenges Native American communities have faced

    • Listen to audiobooks written or narrated by Indigenous authors and poets

    • Support Native American-owned businesses

    • Watch a movie or documentary about or by a Native Americans

    • Attend one of many seminars, performances, or events honoring Native American culture across the country

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Women’s History Month

  • Women's History Month takes place every year in the month of March to honor the contributions and achievements of women throughout history.

  • We celebrate Women's History Month to remember and recognize the remarkable women who have dedicated their lives to giving all women better ones.

  • To be surrounded by strong women who are constantly uplifting and inspiring each other, making an impact on our lives, and changing the world around us for the better is incredible!

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Mental Health Awareness Month

  • Mental Health Awareness Month was established in 1949 to increase awareness of the importance of mental health and wellness in Americans' lives and to celebrate recovery from mental illness. For more than 20 years, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has recognized Mental Health Awareness Month (MHAM) every May to increase awareness about the vital role mental health plays in our overall health and wellbeing and provide resources and information to support individuals and communities.

  • Message from our VP of DEI:

    • “Mental health is an area I've been passionate about since I learned what it means and how it can affect everyone's lives. This month is incredibly important because it raises awareness about the critical role mental health plays in how we handle stress and make healthy decisions. I care for my mental health by practicing self-care, keeping a positive mindset and maintaining my physical health. I go for walks and meditate when I feel overwhelmed or stressed. I keep a nighttime routine to help me settle in for bed. I make sure to find time for myself and the activities I enjoy. If you ever feel like you're struggling or just want to talk, reach out to someone!”

  • Tips for taking care of your mental health:
    1. Self care is primary care! Sprinkle in opportunities to connect your body & mind. It can be 5 minutes of deep breathing, journaling, drinking a cup of coffee, calling a friend, anything that makes you happy!
    2. Practice mindfulness! This involves breathing methods, guided imagery, or any other practices to relax the body and mind and help reduce stress.
    3. Establish a daily routine! A structured daily schedule can provide stability and a sense of control during challenging times.
    4. Manage stress by doing the things you love! That can involve journaling, yoga, deep breathing, or hobbies to recharge your emotional and mental well-being.

  • Helpful Resources:

    • Visit umatter.ufl.udu for UF campus mental health resources!

    • University of Florida Counseling and Wellness Center: If you're affiliated with the University of Florida, their Counseling and Wellness Center can provide mental health services to students. (352)-392-1575

    • Alachua County Crisis Center: Provides counseling via phone, face-to-face crisis intervention, support groups, and community education. (352) 264-6789

    • Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK or 1-800-273-8255 for immediate help

    • Crisis Text Line: Serves anyone, in any type of crisis, providing access to free, 24/7 support. Text "HELLO" to 741741 for crisis support via text message

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For more info or to voice a concern contact our VP of DEI:

Melanie Peña Bombino

239-745-1130

ufaphivpdei@gmail.com

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Welcome to the Ivy League!

© 2018 by Alpha Phi International

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Questions? Feel free to email us:

floridaalphaphi@gmail.com

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