Guest Column: A message from USUSA Organizations and Campus Diversity Vice President Emilee Harmon

Utah State University is a predominately white institution (PWI) in a predominantly white state that has a population that is less than 2% black according to the U.S. census. This creates an environment that may be uncomfortable to anyone who walks into a room and doesn’t see anyone else who looks like them. I know it makes me feel uncomfortable.

Hi, I’m Emilee Harmon, and I’m many things. I am a Black woman. I am a first-generation college student. I am a transracial adoptee. My identity is complex and I’m proud of all these things — however, they don’t define me. I grew up in Layton, Utah, and I’ve pretty much lived there my entire life. I distinctly remember never having a teacher in school that was a person of color.

This trend has persisted here at Utah State. I spent three years in a certain college where I was met with many micro- and macroaggressions from professors and students — for example, being asked, “No, where are you really from?” by a professor (that same professor also said slavery was “economically attractive”) as well as being talked over by my white male counterparts. I switched majors to focus on bigger goals, which are getting admitted to law school and then becoming an attorney. I’ve had a much better experience since switching colleges, and I admire the conversations we’ve had surrounding the challenges BIPOC face specifically in these spaces.

My experiences of feeling othered and less than have driven me to be the person I am today. I am so passionate about fostering a community of understanding and allyship on our campus. We as students have the power to create a campus culture where students with marginalized identities feel safe.

The recent passing of USUSA Executive Council Bill 2022-01, which established a standing inclusion statement for the organization, is a step in the right direction. This statement is our commitment to the principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion. I’m very proud that this bill passed unanimously, but I’m also aware that is just the beginning. As a student leader, I think it is incredibly important for students to hold us accountable. We are here to serve you, and if you have concerns, please bring them to our attention!

I’m very pleased to announce that this week is Diversity Week! Activities start Monday, Oct. 4 and run through Oct. 11. USU’s annual Diversity Week aims to celebrate the different identities and experiences present on our campus. Our focus is to create a space that provides the Aggie Family, including students, faculty and staff, the opportunity to explore different cultures, engage in conversations that bring new perspectives, and celebrate the presence of and contributions made by people of all identities and experiences. It’s a time for us to celebrate while also looking forward to a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive future.