In response to a growing need for inclusivity and support within the IU Fort Wayne community, the "I Am Healthcare" (IAMHC) initiative has emerged as a source of support and connection. Founded by Clinical Assistant Professor, Dr. Aisha Smiley, IAMHC seeks to address issues of racism, bias, and underrepresentation to foster an inclusive environment among students, staff, faculty, and the wider Fort Wayne community.
“At the time I was one of a tiny number of staff or faculty of color and within program leadership and did not feel connected to others,” Smiley said. “I was hearing similar stories from students inclusive of their classroom and clinical experiences related to racism and bias and wanted to do something.”
Recognizing the lack of diversity within the healthcare system and campus community, Smiley created a way for the campus community to gather once a month to engage in dialogue, activities, and other events that promote a culture of care, inclusivity, and diversity.
On Thursday, April 25 IAMHC is hosting a luncheon featuring Dr. Diane Shane Fruchtman, Associate Professor of Religion at Rutgers University, to discuss and share her knowledge about the Israel and Palestine conflict – the history, ongoing impact, and ways we can respond.
Dr. Diane Shane Fruchtman is a medievalist historian of Christianity focused on the history and legacy of martyrdom. Her research focuses on the ways that rhetoric and narrative construct reality for individuals and communities (both historically and in the present), and explores how attending to the thought-worlds of our sources can challenge simplistic accounts of human history.
Her secondary area of research specialization is on inclusive pedagogy (specifically how medievalists can make classes more welcoming to and supportive of a wider range of students), and in her public-facing work she leads professional development sessions for educators on Religious Diversity and how to use Religious Studies methodologies to create more inclusive learning environments.
This event is open to all. IAMHC encourages participation from students, staff, faculty, and the broader community.
“People should attend if they want to be a part of building a culture of care for our campus and community, if you do not know what that means, you should come,” Smiley said. "When we understand what diversity is and are serious about living it out, we ALL win.”
You can learn more and register for the IAMHC luncheon here.
