Page 43 - 2017 Yearbook

DIVERSITY?BY: BETTY, CLAIRE, JACEY
Diversity is very much celebrated at the Priory. Not only do we have a variety of clubs such as the Chinese Ethnicity, Dedicated to Diversity, Korean Culture, Latinos Unidos de Priory, and Multicultural clubs, the phrase “All Are Welcome” is constantly used to demonstrate our hospitable culture. However, the reality of diversity at the Priory remains reflected in the opinions of students and teachers.
As a leader of diversity at Priory, Mr. Lavalle believes that “we have come a long way in the last 6 years. We are more diverse and there is a lot more awareness around aspects of white privilege, equity, and inclusion, etc.” While the message remains positive, he continues by saying “however, we have a long way to go. Yes, we have created new avenues for faculty and students to address concerns, but at the same time, we can always do more.” Mrs. Briggs praised Mr. Lavalle’s work after being instituted as Community Engagement Director and provides an area of improvement: the faculty.
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The student body at Priory also shares some thoughts regarding Priory’s diversity. Lauren Kastanis (11) shared her views on religious diversity, saying “The majority of people are Catholic, Atheist, or don’t identify with a religion. There are some other religions, but no one stresses religion a lot outside of theology class.” Many other students agree with her latter statement, explaining that “religion is never celebrated at this school” Tarik Shihadeh (12).
Where we are lacking in diversity seem to be economic diversity and diversity in sexual orientation. Other students expressed their disappointment in the political diversity at Priory, saying “political expression isn't very much encouraged here...at least anything but democratic. We don't talk about important stuff like reforming education or taxes. It's kind of a bubble,” said Sophia Giarrusso (10).
Overall, the consensus seems to be that while many forms of diversity have improved over the years, we have a lot that we could improve on.
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