In recent years, diversity and inclusion in our community have become increasingly important matters.
Michael Carter, Sinclair’s Chief Diversity Officer and Senior Advisor to the President, has made it his personal duty for the past 20 years to focus on making not only Sinclair, but the Dayton community, more diverse and inclusive.
“It’s about more than diversity, it’s more about equity and inclusion,” Carter said. “What’s most important is providing people with what they need and making sure everyone gets a voice.”
Carter was nominated by the Dayton Business Journal for the 2021 Individual Outstanding Diversity Champion award.
This award recognizes individuals in the community who have shown passion and commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion within their organizations or in their community, as well as those making a positive difference through contributions to social justice and equality.
Carter was “very honored and humbled” for being awarded but considers it more of an award for Sinclair as it shows they are working towards a common goal.
On Sept. 27, Carter also opened a new exhibit at Sinclair’s Dayton campus called “Our American Journey: The Black Experience in America.”
The exhibit takes people through the history of African Americans and their successes and struggles throughout the past decades, and it honors people who have stood up for equality. Different types of authors, activists, and leaders are all recognized throughout this exhibit.
Carter wanted people’s input with his exhibit, so he had students and staff write down their opinions and notes and had them hung up on the wall afterwards.
Some things people have said about the exhibit are that it is “a moving and motivational exhibit, that makes you take action” and “opening more of my vision of my history, grateful and honored to see a lot of unique articles and items.”
Carter said that he was encouraged to create the exhibit because: “A couple of years ago I made a mobile hip-hop display, so I had an idea prepared and did practice runs in building 12 during Covid.”
The display itself took about two weeks to put together.
Carter says he is “passionate about sharing knowledge.”
The exhibit was open on Oct. 19 and Oct. 20 in the library at the Dayton campus. There are now three more dates to attend in December. Go here for more details.
Marquie Peyton
Intern