I Thought UW-Milwaukee Was Inclusive

This week, the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee posted an article is the spirit of Valentine’s Day; it was about couples who met at UWM and how their love has continued and flourished over the years.

Sounds sweet, right?

Well, while I initially thought it was unique and touching, the stark reality of the article then hit me.

All of the couples featured were white and heterosexual.

The emotions that ran over me after realizing this sad fact were ones that are hard to describe; it felt like getting a backhanded compliment from someone you look up to.

This article was produced by the university, featured on the website’s homepage and is still out there for all to view.

I love my school, more than a majority of people that go here, but this left a bad taste in my mouth.

We are a school that is in the top 50 for LGBT friendly universities, has nearly 9,000 undergraduate students who are first generation college students and more than 33% of our new freshman are students of color; why were these faces not represented?

UWM prides itself on being ‘uniquely UWM’ and how diverse we are. Well, it’s hard to believe we actually are when only white, heterosexual couples are showcased on our website.

Some people might say I am overreacting and that this is a minor, insignificant thing, but is it really? We are living in a time where minority voices are louder than ever and people of all demographics are fighting for minority rights.

So, yes, I do think this is a major issue.

I identify as a white, heterosexual female, but that shouldn’t stop me from calling out something I see and know is wrong.

I believe that this article is in no way an accurate representation of who we are as a student population or as a university.

Now, you are probably wondering what I think should be done.

Well, here is what I propose: use a diverse group of former or current students that show what UWM truly looks like.

The university should be highlighting people that actually represent all the different cultures, races and communities that encompass our campus, not just cherry picking through one demographic.

Minorities are already under-represented in media, pop-culture and politics; UWM should at least be making ever effort to combat this issue on our own turf.

Once again, I love my school but this article is not an accurate representation of who we are.