MCC Hosts Second Day of Love, Acceptance, and Belonging Event

Led by MCC employees and students, participants at Day of Love, Acceptance, and Belonging on April 17, learned about different topics, such as addressing an individual’s inner child, being an LGBTQ+ ally, and building relationships. Courtesy photo

Submitted by Middlesex Community College

Middlesex Community College hosted the college’s second Day of Love, Acceptance, and Belonging on April 17. People at the event had the opportunity to connect, celebrate MCC as a community, and reflect on the significance of love, acceptance, and belonging through group discussions and programming. The MCC community gathered on both the Bedford and Lowell campuses to enjoy snacks, decorations, and art activities.

“Students, faculty, and staff were invited to take the time to reflect on the importance of love, acceptance, and belonging and participate and celebrate who we are as a community,” said Maria Isabel Gariepy, MCC’s Executive Director of Diversity, Equity, and Belonging. “Throughout the day, we listened deeply, shared our experiences, engaged in meaningful conversations about acceptance, belonging, and the importance of building a supportive community.”

This event reminded the community of how MCC encourages learning from each other’s experiences and the importance of uplifting one another.

To give participants the opportunity to share their experiences and have meaningful conversations, learning sessions and activities were spread throughout the day. Led by MCC employees and students, participants learned about different topics, such as addressing an individual’s inner child, being an LGBTQ+ ally, and building relationships.

Middlesex Community College hosted the college’s second Day of Love, Acceptance, and Belonging on April 17. People at the event had the opportunity to connect, celebrate MCC as a community, and reflect on the significance of love, acceptance, and belonging through group discussions and interactions. Courtesy photo

“The events included sessions that drew on lived experiences to continue forging an environment where employees and students grow, learn, work, and teach,” Gariepy said. “While we advanced the sense of belonging for all, embracing love, acceptance, and our shared humanity.”

As part of the event, MCC hosted an art project where students collaborated and shared their personal experiences to build a mural that represented belonging. The activity was intended to deepen the MCC community’s sense of understanding and togetherness.

“Together, we learned how we can counter hate,” Gariepy said. “The day reminded us that no matter who you are, you are valued and belong at MCC.”