Office of Inclusive Excellence Monthly Highlights - April
Welcome to april!
April is here, and there’s a lot happening at GWSPH and across campus that ties into important public health topics. From addressing maternal health disparities to raising awareness about climate change’s impact on communities, these events are a great chance to get involved and learn more about the issues shaping our world.
Arab American Heritage Month
Arab American Heritage Month recognizes the significant contributions made by Arab Americans to science, medicine, and public health. Public health initiatives aim to foster inclusion and improve healthcare access for Arab Americans, who often experience language barriers, underrepresentation in health research, and limited access to culturally competent care. (NIH)
Autism Awareness & Acceptance Month
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) affects children from all socioeconomic backgrounds, yet children in lower-income families, particularly those in rural areas, may face barriers in early diagnosis and access to interventions. Children in low-income households are less likely to receive early autism screenings, which can delay intervention and affect long-term development. (NIH)
Earth Month & Earth Day (April 22)
Earth Month brings attention to various aspects of climate change and environmental degradation. This year’s theme for Earth Day, "Our Power, Our Planet," emphasizes the urgent need for action to protect the environment and reduce health disparities caused by environmental factors. Low-income and rural communities are more likely to experience environmental hazards, such as poor air quality, leading to higher rates of respiratory illnesses. (NIH)
National Minority Health Month
Health disparities persist in marginalized communities, with chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer disproportionately affecting individuals in low-income and rural areas. Rural populations experience higher rates of chronic disease and lower access to healthcare services, contributing to a 20% higher rate of death from heart disease compared to urban areas. (CDC)
Sexual Assault Awareness Month
The theme for Sexual Assault Awareness Month is "Together We Act, United We Change." Nationwide, 81% of women and 43% of men reported experiencing some form of sexual harassment and/or assault in their lifetime. (NSVRC) Rural areas have fewer support services for sexual assault survivors, with 1 in 5 women and 1 in 16 men in rural areas reporting experiences of sexual violence.
Where We Take Action
At GWSPH, we are committed to addressing these disparities through research, education, and community partnerships. Below are some of many opportunities to engage around campus and the community:
Support Health Initiatives
Arab American Health Consortium: The Arab American Health Consortium works to improve the health and well-being of Arab Americans through culturally competent healthcare and advocacy efforts.
The Autism Society of America: The Autism Society of America is dedicated to improving the lives of individuals with autism by promoting access to resources, early diagnosis, and support services for families.
CDC REACH: The CDC's REACH (Racial and Ethnic Approaches to Community Health) program focuses on reducing health disparities by improving access to health services and promoting healthier communities among racial and ethnic minorities.
Engage Locally
Safe Shores - The D.C. Children’s Advocacy Center (DC): Safe Shores provides support for children and families affected by sexual assault and works to prevent abuse through community education.
National Minority Quality Forum: The National Minority Quality Forum works to eliminate health disparities by promoting evidence-based practices and policies that improve healthcare access and outcomes for minority populations.
Sustainable DC: Sustainable DC is a city initiative that focuses on making Washington, D.C., a healthier, greener, and more sustainable city through climate action, environmental protection, and community engagement.
Here at GWU
GWSPH Public Health Research and Policy Programs: These programs focus on advancing public health through innovative research and policy solutions to improve health outcomes for all communities, particularly underserved populations.
SustainableGW: Sustainable GW is committed to promoting environmental sustainability across the campus and provides students and faculty with opportunities to engage in sustainability initiatives, workshops, and events.
Title IX Office: The Title IX office is responsible for preventing and responding to sexual harassment, assault, and violence on campus, providing resources, support, and advocacy for survivors.
Colonial Health Center: The Colonial Health Center provides confidential services for students, including counseling, medical care, and sexual assault support resources.
Honoring Public Health Leaders
Public health is shaped by the work of dedicated individuals who challenge inequities, drive scientific discovery, and advocate for marginalized communities. This month, we recognize leaders who have made lasting contributions to health, disability rights, and scientific advancement.
Dr. Mona Hanna-Attisha, a pediatrician and public health advocate, played a pivotal role in exposing the Flint water crisis and its harmful impact on children’s health due to lead contamination. Dr. Huda Zoghbi, a renowned neurologist, is celebrated for her groundbreaking work in genetics, especially her discovery of the genetic cause of Rett syndrome. Dr. Ari Ne'eman, a disability rights advocate and co-founder of the Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN) who promoting advocates on policy issues related to healthcare and education for autistic individuals, and Morénike Giwa Onaiwu an advocate for autistic people of color who has worked in the fields of public health, HIV/AIDS research, and neurodiversity advocacy.
These trailblazers exemplify the power of advocacy, research, and policy change in shaping a more equitable public health landscape. We encourage you to learn more about their work and explore ways to engage in efforts that promote health equity and justice for all.
upcoming events
SEAS Earth Month Booth
During Earth Month, explore engineers' critical role in protecting our planet. Every Wednesday in April, visit the first floor of SEH for a snack and a fact highlighting the sustainable solutions pioneered by engineers. Learn more about the engineering innovations that are helping to create a greener, smarter, and more sustainable future!
Pin Making for Autism Education and Acceptance
What is autism? How can we cultivate autism acceptance? What is the history of the treatment of autistic persons?
Tuesday, April 1, 2025 7pm, USC 310
Chronic Health Advocates (CHA) members and attendees will learn answers to these questions and more accompanied by an activity of pin making to help promote autism education and acceptance!
Supporting Neurodiverse Students and Colleagues
Join the The Office for Diversity, Equity and Community Engagement (ODECE) for an engaging discussion on neurodiversity with Rochelle Mills, Director of Disability Support Services here at George Washington University.
Monday, April 7, 2025 9:30am to 10:30am
USC Room 405
This session will explore the meaning of neurodiversity, strategies for supporting neurodiverse students, and ways to foster a more inclusive campus culture through universal design. Whether you're a staff or faculty member, this presentation will offer valuable insights on creating a more accessible and welcoming community.
Facilitator: Rochelle Mills, Director of Disability Support Services
National Public Health Week
April 7-13 is National Public Health Week!
Join us for a full week of events, receptions, activities, and more around GWSPH and campus.
Jashn-e- Eid
Join us for a special Late Eid Celebration, a cultural event bringing together the GW community and beyond! We’re excited to collaborate with the Azerbaijani Student Organization at GW and the Afghan Student Association at UMD to create an inclusive and festive night filled with traditional music, food, and community bonding.
Friday, April 11, 2025 7pm to 11pm
University Student Center - Grand Ballroom
What to Expect?
– Enjoy a delicious spread of cultural dishes!
– Experience lively beats and cultural performances!
– Meet new people and celebrate together!
– Reflect on the meaning of Eid and its importance across communities!
Title IX Virtual Office Hours
It's important to know how Title IX works, what happens when a report of sexual harassment, sexual assault, dating/domestic violence, or stalking is made to the Title IX Office, what the formal complaint process looks like, and what resources are available.
Friday, April 4, 2025 10am to 11am
Friday, April 18, 2025 10am to 11am
Come meet GW's Title IX staff as they introduce themselves, answer your questions, share information, and discuss resources during Title IX Office Hours.
Register here. After registering, a Zoom link will be sent prior to your scheduled meeting.
Survivor Community Night at the Office of Advocacy and Support
Come join the Office of Advocacy and Support on
Friday, March 21st, from 5pm-7pm, for our Survivor Community Night at the OAS Townhouse, located at 520 22nd St. NW.
If you are a survivor and you are looking for a place to connect with other survivors to chill, hang out, and share community, this is the space for you! Join us at the OAS Townhouse where we will be enjoying snacks, goodies, giveaways, and an evening of fun and community care!
What's Happening Around Campus
in the news
GW's Inaugural Open Source Conference
April 11, 2025
GW’s Open Source Program hosted its inaugural Open Source Conference with Keith Crandall, professor in DBB, as the keynote speaker as highlighted in the GW Today.
GWSPH Celebrates National Public Health Week with Community, Conversation, and Action
April 11, 2025
GWSPH Celebrates National Public Health Week with Community, Conversation, and Action