The Universities Accord draft report says universities have an ‘obligation to students to foster belonging’. It also notes ‘too few’ Australians are completing their degrees.
A mural in St Paul’s, Bristol celebrating the social worker and activist Barbara Dettering.
Steve Taylor ARPS/Alamy
People’s sense of belonging is fostered in everyday social practices and in the spaces they claim for themselves. Our elders need be acknowledged, respected and accepted.
But on the positive side, support for multiculturalism and ethnic diversity continues to grow and is likely to be a valuable asset to our social cohesion in future.
The interior of the International Church of Cannabis in Denver, Colorado.
International Church of Cannabis Denver, Colorado
Mishandling someone’s name can lead to social exclusion and unbalanced power dynamics. Putting in the work to get names right reflects a dedication to inclusivity and respect for other cultures.
It’s the simple, everyday encounters and experiences – a friendly wave, a helping hand – that refugees say makes them feel part of the Australian community.
When the COVID-19 pandemic tapers off, festivals will be an important part of recovery. Here, crowds last April at the 2019 Coachella music festival, in Indio, CA. The spring festival has been cancelled and rescheduled for the fall.
(Photo by Amy Harris/Invision/AP, File)
The decision to cancel a festival is never easy and can have difficult financial and community costs. Both planners and would-be attendees can play a role in mitigating the impact.
A sense of belonging can enhance the college experience.
Shutterstock
Engaging with diversity – a key ingredient for sense of belonging on college campuses – may involve discomfort and even tension at times.
A low sense of belonging is associated with negative behaviours including misbehaviour, drug and alcohol use at school, violence and dropping out of school.
Photo by chuttersnap on Unsplash