ROAR - Critical Concerns Week - MThamrong

F E L R E C T T N I E O D NS U T S GCU Critical Concerns Week 2026 VOL. 1 ISSUE 2

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Georgian Court’s 2026 Critical Concern is Antiracism. The university is reflecting on the belief that all people are made in the divine image. Racism disfigures our human dignity, and it is important to remember our common origin.

“All people - in all their glorious diversity bear the thumbprint of their Maker” Georgian Court University Inspired by the Sisters of Mercy, Georgian Court strives to be an inclusive and antiracist community. This week, our campus hosted several events in the theme of antiracism. This included daily reflections, art and film exhibits, and presentations by faculty and guest speakers.

In the theme of this year’s Critical Concern, we asked students to reflect on what antiracism means and how our campus can continue to support this concern.

STUDENT‌ STUDENT REFLECTION Belynnda King, Senior I would define antiracism as the acceptance and respect of people regardless of their race.

I think that students play a main role in shaping an inclusive environment on campus, because ultimately, we are the face of the campus. Students come here from all corners of the world, bringing their individual talents and interests. So being considerate of and learning from each other while we’re here is only preparing us for the world beyond college.

Mia Korman, Junior My views on antiracism have grown stronger since coming to college. I feel more responsible not just to avoid racism, but to actively challenge it. Even though our campus may not be the most diverse, there are still many different communities represented, and it is important that everyone feels welcome and included. Being in college has made me more aware of how widespread racism still is, and it has pushed me to be more intentional about creating a safe and inclusive environment for those around me.

I practice antiracism by continuing to educate myself about different cultures and communities, being mindful of my words and actions, and making an effort to create a welcoming and respectful environment for others.

Foster, Freshman I would define antiracism as a mindset against discriminating people based on the color of their skin and their race.

Nolen, Freshman A moment where I experienced racial inequality was watching the Super Bowl.

While watching the halftime show a person I was with was complaining “why is someone singing in Spanish, this is an American game.” They complained that Bad Bunny was the performer and was singing in Spanish instead of having an “American” do it.

Students play a role to make an inclusive environment on campus by being polite and including everyone in their everyday activities and trying to make new friends.

Ashley Simons, Senior My views on race and antiracism have changed since coming to college.

Being around more diverse groups of people and hearing different perspectives has helped me become more openminded and aware. I’ve learned that it’s important to listen, to educate myself, and not assume I fully understand others’ experiences. I think students play a big role in shaping an inclusive environment on campus. The way we treat each other matters. Being kind, and speaking up when something is wrong can make a big difference. Students help create the kind of environment they want to be apart of.

To learn more about Critical Concerns Week, check out the Georgian Court University website!

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This issue of ROAR was brought to you by the following:

Writer Molly Thamrong

Contributions Santiago Valencia Victoria Clarington