Bard College Berlin News
Bringing transnational experience, empathy, and attention to communication, Lauren Gaillard joins BCB as Director of Equal Opportunity, Participation and Nondiscrimination
Despite having only arrived last month, Gaillard says, “I can already sense a family-like feel here.” She says, “BCB’s campus houses various forms of diversity ranging from subjects of study and the general atmosphere, to the makeup of student backgrounds and perspectives. It’s complex but beautiful, and I very much look forward to working with everyone here to make BCB more diverse, equitable, and inclusive.”
Gaillard’s passion is obvious in her past work and future goals, and evident to anyone she speaks with. She says, “There is no doubt that as a Black, mixed-race, foreign woman living in Germany, my passion is clearly visible on a daily basis. I've faced extreme and micro forms of discrimination throughout my life, unfortunately also in every city I've lived. If nothing else, I want to reduce those kinds of negative experiences for others, or at least help others like me to fight against or cope with the forms of discrimination they face.”
She wishes to “create awareness and shed light on the importance of breaking systemic barriers, which harm not just those directly affected, such as historically marginalized communities, but also society at large.”
Gaillard, originally from the United States, has been working in Germany for the past eight years. Throughout her career, she has noticed some differences between the two countries. She notes, “In my research and experience on this topic, I think historically marginalized groups in Germany have a different approach than the US with regard to fighting for equality due to historical, cultural, and political differences. For example, at a national level as well as in my work, Germany is focused on women (especially in tech), gender (pay gap and language), and on migration and citizenship, and less so on race and religion.”
She continues, “I believe this is due to Germany’s geographical location, economic system, and how they dealt with political and individual identity post-WWII. These grouped identity topics are the focus of rhetoric in Germany to this day.”
Gaillard recognizes that the work, no matter where, is challenging. A particular challenge she notes lies in getting people to empathize with each other and effectively communicate to create shared goals together. It’s only then that individuals can “speak their personal truths and align with someone on a topic.”
Gaillard is optimistic for the future of DEI at BCB. She says, “It is a blessing to be able to do this work and I believe in what we can do here.” She continues, “Doing this work in the space of higher education is one way, and my chosen way, to make an impact with and on current and future leaders, as we inclusively work together to fight for equity and equality using diversity as our superpower.”
Everyone is welcome to stop by the DEI office at BCB, located in K24. Gaillard says, “My wish for everyone is to understand that the DEI office is a safe space where we can chat, plan awesome, inclusive, and equitable events, bounce ideas around, and discuss any issues that might be on your mind regarding DEI.”
Gaillard is currently working on bringing even more DEI resources to BCB, but for now she tells students, “I can support you when it comes to issues and topics based on migration (regardless of your status), race, ethnicity, gender-based misconduct, events, or grievances.” She is also the Gender-Equity Coordinator, so students can come to her with questions or concerns regarding any incidents they wish to report.
Ultimately, Gaillard seeks to make BCB’s DEI office a collaborative space. She wants students and colleagues to know, “If you have ideas where you'd like to celebrate or educate others on DEI and accessibility topics, I'm here to empower you. Ultimately I’d like to learn from you too and work together. I love collaborating with others, so come by or send an email if you've got something you'd like to see happen here at BCB!”
Post Date: 09-22-2023