Office of Equity and Inclusion

The following statement was recently shared with our campus community. It originated from our students, faculty, and staff to convey their commitment to a welcoming and inclusive climate for all Bengals to learn and live together. 

Idaho State University is committed to fostering an environment in which students, faculty, and staff from all backgrounds can live, work, and learn free from the insidious and debilitating effects of prejudice, discrimination, and marginalization.

Racism in all its forms is antithetical to this commitment. The rise of sinophobia (hostility against China, its people, people of Chinese descent, or Chinese culture) has risen during the COVID-19 outbreak and increasingly threatens the livelihood of Asian nationals and communities at this time of global uncertainty. Racism occurs with and without malicious intent, often as a result of unconscious bias. We recognize that the effects of racism are caused not only by the isolated actions of individuals, but also by the policies and practices of institutions. Whether intentional or unintentional, individual or institutional, racism is harmful and dehumanizing and has adverse effects on our community.

On behalf of our students and employees of Asian ethnicity or nationality, we expect every member of the community will work to combat sinophobia - both intentional and unintentional.

We commit to helping the community identify and challenge discrimination and marginalization of any sort. We encourage any student, faculty or staff member who has experienced harassment or discrimination based on race, ethnicity or national origin to contact the Office of Equity and Inclusion.