Key Takeaways:
– Dartmouth College offered post-election support to students and faculty.
– The program included several hours of mental health counseling and listening circles.
– Many students at the institution supported Kamala Harris in the recent election.
In the wake of the recent election defeat of Vice President Kamala Harris, Dartmouth College is stepping up to support its students. The Ivy League university is offering extended hours of counseling and the opportunity to participate in “Democratic listening circles” for students who may be struggling with the results.
Listening Circles and Support Groups
In a series of “post-election events,” Dartmouth decided to include a two-hour “Democratic listening circle.” The space serves as a supportive environment for Democratic voters to express their thoughts, hope, and concerns about the country’s direction. Also, a “Bipartisan Listening Circle” was available to give all students, regardless of their political affiliation, a platform to voice their thoughts and listen to one another.
The “Decompress Dinner,” a five-and-half hour event, also featured on the roster. The instructions read, “Be off the grid the day after the election. Bring a book, a craft, and a friend to the lodge. Van ride and dinner included!” Clearly encouraging students to take a break, relax, and maybe even distract themselves a bit.
Counseling for Students and Faculty
The university did not overlook the fact that such a crucial event could dramatically affect mental health. Hence, they made a provision for three hours of psychological counseling on Wednesday and Thursday. The agenda also included one-on-one confidential meetings with the chaplain and space for students to process and discuss their feelings over a meal.
This program targeted not only the students but also the faculty. Dartmouth organized a listening circle for faculty, recognizing the fact that they too could be hit by the ramifications of the political change.
Contrasting Political Opinions on Campus
A poll by the student newspaper, The Dartmouth, revealed that most students at the university backed Harris in the election, with 75% expressing their support for her. On the other hand, Trump, the election winner, had the backing of just 21% of the student population.
Showing its balanced approach to student support, Dartmouth also installed a “Republican Listening Circle.” The intent was to cater to the reflections and sentiments of the students who sat on the other side of the political spectrum.
Previous Political Activism at Dartmouth
When recalling previous politically charged events at Dartmouth, we remember that the institution’s graduation ceremony back in June was interrupted by a pro-Palestinian demonstration held by the Upper Valley Democratic Socialists of America (UVDSA). This group, a chapter of the Democratic Socialists of America, remains steadfastly impassioned about international politics and all matters concerning Palestine.
Respecting All Voices
In total, Dartmouth offered five “listening circles” over three days from Wednesday to Friday. This move was part of a concentrated effort to respect all voices and provide a safe space for sharing and reflecting irrespective of political allegiance.
Although the university didn’t immediately reply to a request for a comment, it is clear that they took an inclusive and considerate approach to the mental health and well-being of its students and faculty during this turbulent political time. The Dartmouth College administration has indeed shown its dedication to fostering an genuinely supportive academic environment for all.