Creating cultural and identity-based content
Over the past couple of years, we have seen a cultural shift in the United States of demands from audiences who expect brands/organizations to recognize significant cultural moments and support the diversity of identities. This has been felt at universities as well and content approaches have shifted.
University communicators responsible for fostering online communities are expected to ensure a diversity of stories and storytellers to show the depth of the community experience.
In presenting the overall approach and calendar below, we recognize that it is dynamic and may change based on evolving guidance.
Objectives:
- Community representation and centering
- Education about the historical or meaningful relevance of the acknowledgment
- Highlight the critical resources, programs and services offered at UC Davis and create pathways for people to connect with their various communities.
Guidance for Acknowledgements:
- As a public university, we must remain neutral on religious matters. In support of our educational mission, we host a Multicultural calendar as an informational resource for students, staff and faculty as they plan events, activities, meetings, retreats and courses throughout the year as well as for accommodation requests for religious creed. (See Section 210-50 for religious accommodations)
- As a public university and Section 501(c)(3) tax-exempt charitable organization, we are prohibited from directly and indirectly supporting, endorsing and opposing candidates for elective public office and ballot measures. (See Guidance on political activities from UC’s Office of General Counsel)
- With limited capacity, we prioritize acknowledgments that are recognized at the state and/or federal level.
BEST PRACTICES FOR CAMPUS COMMUNICATORS
When creating content to acknowledge a specific community, it’s important to put the people first and not be performative for the sake of clout. Considerations for content creation — campus programs, services and resources, university departments, student organizations and educational moments — are all great elements to consider when building content.
Questions to consider when developing content:
- How can we educate our general community on this topic?
- What resources and support services do we have on campus?
- When possible, we create content that is people-centric, meaning we try to tell the stories of people through their own voices.
- Do your research EVERY TIME. Cultural context changes as does language. It's important to always do due diligence before posting to ensure they are relevant, timely and culturally accurate.
| MONTH | ACKNOWLEDGEMENT |
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| February |
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| March |
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| April |
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| May |
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| June |
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| August |
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| November |
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