University President Dave Frohnmayer welcomed people to the 7th annual “Weaving New Beginnings” reception Thursday night with a story about his recent trip to New York City.
While he was there, he said, he went to downtown Manhattan, where the twin towers of the World Trade Center stood before the Sept. 11 attacks — the area now known as “ground zero.”
Although he was saddened by the experience, Frohnmayer said he was also touched by the way New Yorkers were reaching out to each other regardless of race or ethnic background.
The recent events on the East Coast emphasize how important it is for the University to be a place where people come together — and where all students feel accepted, he said.
“In these times of terror, reprisal and counter-reprisal,” he said, “there is a need … to draw our strengths from other hearts.”
“Weaving New Beginnings” is hosted by the ASUO to maintain a supportive environment for minority communities on campus. The event gives new students the opportunity to meet professors, student groups and fellow students of color.
The reception was held in the EMU Ballroom and drew more than 200 people.
Steve Morozumi, programs advisor for the Multicultural Center, and Kawezya Hutchinson, co-director of the Black Student Union, presented plaques to several University departments for their work in supporting diversity. Alumni working on diversity issues were also honored.
After the awards ceremony, students, faculty and their families mingled and enjoyed the refreshments provided.
Artwork by several students and alumni of color was displayed at the event. The largest piece, a mural painted by former MEChA member Steve Lopez, extended the full length of the Ballroom stage.
The multi-colored mural, which shows two children with an open history book surrounded by rallying farm workers, grapes poisoned by pesticides, and an eagle with dynamite — the MEChA symbol of power — served as a backdrop for the presentations. ASUO Multicultural Advocate Mario Sifuentez said the mural is open to interpretation but represents elements of Chicano history.
Sifuentez, who organized the event, said the evening was crucial for students of color who may feel isolated because the University is large and has a predominately white student body.
“When I look around,” he said. “I can just feel all the love in the room.”
Sophomore Nicole Steiner, who is from Eugene, said she has attended the event since she was a freshman in high school.