The Office of Intercultural Life at Carleton strives to enhance the student experience by providing programming and support that advocates for a just and inclusive community. OIL is open to all students regardless of race, gender, color, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, national or ethnic origin and socio-economic status. However, OIL has a unique role of providing direct support through programming that affirms, supports, and engages students of color.

OIL’s program components include (1) leadership and skill development, (2) facilitation and dialogue, (3) community building and allyship, and (4) cross/intercultural awareness and knowledge.

Mission

The Office of Intercultural Life strives to create a diverse and welcoming campus community that embraces individual difference, advocates for social justice, and cultivates inclusion. OIL centers the experiences of students of color while working collaboratively to create a campus wide culture of understanding and respect.

Program Goals

Foster belonging by creating a safe space and supportive environment where students of color feel accepted, included, and valued as their authentic selves.

Build community by maximizing engagement and strengthening bonds among individuals and communities of color.

Support academic success and retention through collaboration with faculty, deans, and college resources.

Support initiatives that raise awareness and address disparities impacting vulnerable communities.

Key Initiatives

Peer Mentorship Program

OIL’s Peer Mentorship Program offers guidance and support for first year students as they transition to Carleton. Participants get connected to resources that help them navigate the college experience and ensure that they persist and graduate.

Cultural House Communities

Cultural House Communities provide a variety of educational, cultural, and social programs that highlight the cultural diversity at Carleton. The four Cultural House Communities supported by OIL are:

  • Cultural House for Asian Identities (CHAI)
  • Neil House (African-American/African diaspora)
  • La Casa del Sol (Hispanic/Latine)
  • Khéya Kiƞ Ihdúwitayapi – The Turtles Gather (Indigenous)

Dialogue Series

OIL Talks are a series of educational, discussion-focused events created by and delivered by OIL student staff. Past topics have included exploring identity in local politics, resiliency, intersectional sexual health, Indigenous story-telling, the impact of tourism on Hawaiian land and culture, and so much more!

OIL sponsors several of Carleton’s convocation speakers each year to “enhance the academic experience of students — educate, enlighten, inspire, promote understanding of diversity, and develop global thinkers.”

Cultural Heritage Months and MLK Day

Cultural Heritage Months are recognized throughout the year to celebrate and provide an opportunity for the entire campus to engage in cultural experiences. While not exhaustive, OIL does programming for Hispanic and Latine Heritage Month (Sept 15 – Oct 15), Indigenous People’s Heritage Month (November), MLK Day (January 15), Black History Month (February), and Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month (May).

Cultural Programming Board

The Cultural Programming Board (CPB) is a collaborative of chartered student organizations that hosts high-impact cultural programming on campus; elevates the relevance of underrepresented cultural perspectives; and stimulates critical dialogue about culture, inclusion, and community.