“You Matter: A Night of Unity” was held on Oct. 26, 2024, as part of Assistant Professor or Sociology Dr. Michelle Deming’s Race and Ethnicity class. Presentations were organized by five groups of three, where each talked about different races and ethnicities and situations they have dealt with in history.

Senior Ruby Boswell explained that this event aimed to create a safe space where topics like race and ethnicity could be openly discussed.

“I would love it if people walked away feeling more comfortable talking about race and ethnicity. Having also a historical understanding equips you to be less scared talking about things openly,” Boswell explains.

“All traumas have to be addressed and brought to light to heal from them,” guest speaker Silas Dulan ’05, explained. “Race and ethnicity is something that we don’t talk about, so we can never heal from them,” he continued.

Dulan is very excited that Baker is offering classes and events like this to learn and heal from this trauma. As an audience member, Dulan shared personal stories that he has experienced himself or has been told this story, which was very compelling and emotional.

“It is very inspiring that honestly gives me a newfound appreciation for everyone and what this school can do,” senior Adela Smajla expressed her feelings about all the questions that Dulan was asked. “For this freshman or those not in this class to be able to come up with deep questions for Silas shows they have a better understanding of race and ethnicity, which shows they are truly processing what they are being told.”

The Race and Ethnicity class hopes to hold more events where they can continue to show Baker students that while this is a serious topic, it can be held without fear.