‘Listening for Action’ talks Asian hate, campus climate

The fourth Listening for Action event held by the Mary V. Jordan Multicultural Center centered on violence against the Asian community but also recent tensions at ETSU.

The session had about 20 people in attendance including ETSU Counseling Center Director Dan Jones, faculty from the Mary V. Jordan Multicultural Center and students.

“They don’t want just to have a listening session and then nothing happens,” said Carshonda Martin, director of Multicultural Center and access and student success, “They don’t want another task force, and nothing changes.”

Members commented that campus issues feel cyclical, and this process must stop.

Attendees voiced their feelings of exhaustion and numbness to the never-ending violence in America. The session also acknowledged what baggage students may bring to the classroom and how academic departments can be mindful of this.

Since the first session was held, students’ feedback has demanded action from the university in listening to their concerns and enacting lasting change. Safe spaces for students belonging to minority groups to find community and voice their concerns directly to leadership were also requested.

Students have asked for honesty and open mindedness in university communication.

Students said they have found relief in the Listening for Action sessions as they are able to express their emotions and concerns in a safe space.

Martin plans on continuing the sessions but is open to change.

“I want to ensure that everyone that wants to have a voice and wants to be heard has that opportunity,” said Martin.

Martin will transform these events to fit student wants and needs, whether this means partnering with organizations or shifting the entire direction of these sessions. She said she is satisfied with how “Listening for Action” has performed but understands student support is fluid.

Martin also wants to change from being reactive to proactive. She would like to foresee how students can be supported in the future before crises occur.

“The work that we’re trying to do and the work that we’re doing is important always, but it is definitely important now for our students to know that we care about them, that we’re here for them,” said Martin.