EDI | Past Events
Previous EDI events in DCU
Below you'll find information on previous EDI events held in DCU since 2021.
2024
International Men's Day is a global observance on the 19th November that celebrates the positive contributions and achievements of men while addressing important issues affecting men's health, well-being, and gender equality. This day provides an opportunity to promote discussions and actions that support men’s physical and mental health, encourage positive role models, and advocate for a more inclusive society.
The 6 Pillars of International Men's Day
- To promote positive male role models; not just movie stars and sports men but every day, working class men who are living decent, honest lives.
- To celebrate men’s positive contributions to society, community, family, marriage, child care, and to the environment.
- To focus on men’s health and wellbeing; social, emotional, physical and spiritual.
- To highlight discrimination against men; in areas of social services, social attitudes and expectations, and law
- To improve gender relations and promote gender equality
- To create a safer, better world; where people can be safe and grow to reach their full potential.
Positive Male Role Models
International Men's Day 2024 celebrates the positive value men bring to the world, their families and communities and this year we are celebrating the influence and contribution of positive male role models.
DCU staff shared stories and memories of the men who they look up to, why they inspired them, how they had impacted them and brought joy.
Jagdishar Singh SIdhu with his granddaughter
My grandfather, a dedicated math teacher from a small village in India, has always been an inspiration to our family. He instilled in his children the importance of education, leading them to successful careers. He also ignited my passion for computer science and encouraged me to dream big. My sister, too, felt his influence, pursuing her own path to become a doctor.
Inspired by him, I pursued my Master's in Business Analytics at the University of Limerick, Ireland. Coming from humble beginnings, achieving this felt surreal. Now, as an analyst at Dublin City University, I often reflect on his unwavering support. Meanwhile, my sister is living her own dream, working as a dentist in Canada. He taught us the value of hard work and perseverance, enabling us to chase our dreams and build lives that honor his legacy. He is a true role model for all of us, proving that with determination, even those from the smallest villages can achieve great things.
Nixie Boran
I have wonderful memories of my grandfather, Nixie Boran, from a line of Nixie Borans - such as the Nixie who led coalminers' and trade union rights in the mid 1900s. He told me once that he came back from the dead (he had sustained a major heart attack and was clinically dead for a brief period of time, only to then recount his experiences to us as young children - the light got brighter with each retelling!) to ensure that myself and my sister went to school, as he believed education to be the most powerful gift to any generation. So much so, when I was preschool, he taught me to write in old script using my left hand (it was fun when it came to school, and being told I wrote the wrong way), and to read. He also taught me math, and he would write sums (formulae, calculations) in the dry dust of our cow lane using his walking stick, and ask me to calculate. I loved those summer evenings with him, and as time went on, I'd bring out a blackboard to the hayfields, and teach him theorems to be learned for my junior cert as he made hay. It sounds like I was brought up in another time, and in a way I was, as he brought an older generation magic to my childhood, and was my guardian while my dad worked and my mother recovered from countless surgeries.
I remember him asking why I didn't do better on a test, if I received 98% for example, as he always wanted me to reflect on how something could be better.
On the day that he passed unexpectedly, I was with him on the crest of his favourite hill that looks over our house and farm, and over three counties. It is a beautiful sight on any day, but on that day in question, I vividly recall us talking about 'predetermination' (I was learning history at the time). His answer now reminds me of Michael Crichton's Butterfly-Effect concept. He said that at any one moment in time, we have the power to change everything, and that each recalibration of the moment, each new moment, is a brand new future (he didn't say it in that way, that is how I now recall it). But at the time, it gave me (and gives me) such hope for the future, such a vision of how a future can be, and anchors control with the person. As his hand moved through the air, explaining this to me, and I was sitting, as I always did, at his right hand (only to his left if he needed any help, after his major stroke), and he went on to say that something small that happens now, can be something wonderful and big somewhere else, sometime else. I will never forget that conversation, and the absolute love I felt for him, and he for me, in that moment. He will always be the most inspiring of male role models in my life (and there are so many including my husband). He taught me values I will never forget - always open the door for the person behind you, be humble - celebrate your success but don't let it consume you, be outside of yourself (your life cannot just be anchored on your self, it must also reflect others), and be kind. The memory of his lifelong curiousity and passion for education will never leave me. I hope in some small way that I impart some of that magic in what I do each day.
North-East England, 70 and 80's.... my farther out of work, the norm. My mother holding a job. My dad would do the housework, the shopping and bring me to school...unusual for the time. The teachers assumed and eventually plucked up the courage to ask...Is Ian's mother alive....of course replied my dad! A lesson in stereotypes and to me as male to take on any roles...not just those expected of me by others!
Tom McCann
My dad died when I was quiet young (12) and my mother was lucky enough to meet her new partner, Tom. This male role model has been in my life for over 40 years. He has guided, supported and advised me throughout my life. He is my father. He is now also a male role model for my daughter, his granddaughter. He would do anything for her, again offering guidance and support. I don't know where we would be if Tom was not in our lives.
James Keating. He was so thoughtful, so much so that at times I would wonder if he had heard my question (of which there were many). He just loved us. He was the quiet, strong, utterly dependable presence in a sometimes unstable time. He taught me to be hardworking. He made me laugh. He listened to me. I will be forever grateful for my Granddad.
Ryan Carey with his Dad Paul
My Dad, Paul Carey, has been the biggest role model in my life, Growing up I seen the sacrifices he made in working longer hours and disregarding his personal needs so he could provide for me and my siblings. No matter how tired he was after work or on his days off, If we ever asked for a favour he would always do it without hesitation.
My Dad thought me so much growing up and would always guide me in the right direction. My best friend Darryl grew up without his father in his life & my dad would treat him just as if he was his own, My dad took Darryl in to live with us for months on end when he had nowhere to go, He would give us advice, cook, joke, laugh & respect us, never judging any of our mistakes but always holding us accountable for our actions. The same goes for my two younger siblings who he always made sure they had everything they needed, he always made sure I was being a good role model too for them and reminding me that whatever I do, they will do too.
My father encouraged being competitive, I recall playing sports against each other as a teenager and he would always be better than me, but the friendly trash talk kept me motivated to win against him. I'm very fortunate to have a great caring and supportive father as a positive role model in my life to teach me right from wrong. It is often easy for young men to look at sportspeople as a role model or strangers on social media, and that is also great. But having a father, older brother, uncle, cousin, family friend in your life that has good morals, cares about you, knows you and guides you in the right direction is something with benefits that can't be matched.
It may seem a cliché to nominate my Dad as an inspirational male role model, but no male figure has inspired me more. There is the typical element of the story that he worked very hard to provide for our family, but it is more complicated than that. My Dad had opportunities in his life that he didn’t take and he also failed in business. Yet he picked himself up, put his family ahead of his pride and worked nights as a taxi driver for many years. This was the ultimate sacrifice as this pathway foregone any chance of redemption in his business ventures.
Most importantly of all however, my Dad thought me to ask why. He would not explore the how until he understood the why and he taught me the value of critical thinking and education. He is 77 years old now and he still approaches every subject with a childhood curiosity and wonder. This can sometimes be perplexing and even annoying, but it is also inspiring.
DCU Black History Month - Book Exhibition
Monday 1st - Thursday 31st October 2024
Book Exhibition
Cregan Library & O'Reilly Library
Library Opening Hours
To celebrate Black History Month, the Institute of Education (IoE) is collaborating with the HR EDI Unit and the Race Equality Working Group to organise a book exhibition showcasing literature that highlights the contributions of authors and scholars on this important topic. Join us throughout October to explore and engage with a diverse collection of works that honour Black voices.
Always remember to bring your staff or student DCU ID card when visiting our libraries.
DCU Black History Month - Anti-Racism Training
Monday 7th October 2024
Anti-Racism Training (DCU171)
Online
10am - 12pm
Registration now closed
This workshop will empower participants with knowledge and skills to identify and correct previously unrecognised patterns which could negatively impact inclusion efforts.
With shared language and a clearer understanding of how various dimensions of racism are producing unjust and inequitable outcomes for underrepresented groups, DCU staff will be better equipped to foster an anti-racist and inclusive experience within their workplace.
DCU Black History Month - Afro Dance Class
Thursday 17th October 2024
Bridging Cultures Through Dance
The Solas Room, 1st Floor, U Building, Glasnevin Campus
1pm - 2pm
Registration now closed
For Black History Month, DCU SS&D welcomes Southside Moves for a vibrant and welcoming haven to engage in Afro Dance.
Through the mode of dance and movement, this workshop class is where the vibrant tapestry of African dance culture intertwines with other unique styles. The aim is to share knowledge, foster unity, and celebrate diversity in the world of dance. This is more than just a dance class! Come along to this joyful space, express yourself, and connect with like-minded souls. Open to both students and staff, no prior knowledge is needed, making it a great way to engage with African culture during Black History Month.
Please wear relaxed clothing or active wear such as yoga pants.
DCU Black History Month - Gorma Gig
Thursday 17th October 2024
The Venue, U Building, Glasnevin Campus
7pm - 10pm
Ticket Required
For Black History Month, the DCU Students’ Union wishes to celebrate black voices and black excellence. This shall be done through the means of the Gorma Gig. The term gorma, being the word for person of colour as Gaeilge. Good vibes, as some further insight into the people performing. Truly a night that shouldn’t be missed!
Full details about the line up and tickets will be available on Native.
DCU Black History Month - Fireside Chat
Wednesday 30th October 2024
Fireside Chat Event
C204 & C205, Belvedere House, St Pat's Campus
1pm - 2pm
Registration now closed
Join us for our fireside chat "Unheard Narratives – Exploring Black People's Experiences" to delve into personal journeys and the broader experiences of Black people navigating life in Ireland, exploring the unique challenges, triumphs, and strategies for thriving in Irish society. The panel features Peace Chukwurah, Vincent Tawiah, Beyonce Tommina Tom Irehovbude and Gertrude Rufai from our own DCU community.
DCU Pride in Teaching and Research Event
The Pride+ staff network, with support from the EDI Unit, hosted a DCU Pride in Teaching and Research event on Thursday 13th June. This event facilitated DCU’s LGBTQ+ community and allies to come together to meet, network and make visible their work and impact, through the lens of teaching and research. The event fostered dialogue, promoted inclusion, and highlighted the contribution of DCU’s LGBTQ+ community to our mission of transforming lives and societies.
Dublin Pride Parade
Members of the DCU Pride+ staff network participated in the Dublin Pride Parade for the first time this year.
To mark IDAHOBIT (International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia), the EDI Unit in collaboration with ShoutOut hosted a session for colleagues - Trans and Non-Binary 101. Topics covered in the session included:
- Understanding how terms like sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression relate to each other, and how identity can be fluid
- Trans, non-binary, and intersex identities: helpful terminology, what it’s like to be trans, non-binary or intersex in Ireland today
- Pronouns and gendered terms: why they matter, how we can be more inclusive through language
- Organisational change to support trans and non-binary colleagues
- Small steps we can all take to support our trans and non-binary friends, colleagues, and students
Lunch and Learn (Tuesday 5th March)
The EDI Unit, in partnership with DCU Cultural Arts Office, celebrated this year's International Women's Day theme, Inspire Inclusion, by hosting a Women on Walls Lunch and Learn. Colleagues joined us for an expert talk on Accenture's Women on Walls at DCU led by Marcella Bannon, DCU Cultural Arts Officer.
This event celebrated DCU's exhibition of a group of pioneering and extraordinary women; mathematician Kathleen (Kay) McNulty; biochemist Dr Marie Maynard Daly; engineer Beatrice Alice Hicks; X-ray crystallographer Dame Kathleen Lonsdale and Nasa scientist Katherine Johnson.
Lunch with TED Watch Party (Wednesday 6th and Thursday 7th March)
The EDI Unit hosted two watch parties for all DCU staff to come and enjoy some inspiring TEDTalks that remind us why International Women's Day is such an important occasion for everyone.
This year's talks were:
- Dame Stephanie Shirley - Why do ambitious women have flat heads?
- Soraya Chemaly - The power of women's anger
2023
The Learning and Organisational Development Team hosted a 'Conversations on Wellbeing' workshop in celebration of International Men's Day (IMD) 2023. Focused on the theme of mental health and wellbeing, this workshop
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highlighted the challenges faced by men with regard to mental health and wellbeing
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provided ways for men to look after their mental health and maintain a healthy mind
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provided a safe space for men to share their experiences
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provided the opportunity for colleagues to come together and connect
The EDI Unit and colleagues from DCU Access held a coffee morning event on DCU Glasnevin Campus in celebration of Traveller and Roma Pride 2023.
Attendees were joined by speakers from both the Traveller and Roma Communities who shared insights into the importance of Traveller and Roma Pride, as well as how DCU colleagues can help build an inclusive environment for Traveller and Roma staff and students.
ShoutOut: Irish LGBTQ+ History Workshop
Friday 9th June, 1 - 2pm
This online workshop took a deep dive into the historical stories of LGBTQ+ people in Ireland, from early Irish history through to recent legal struggles for equality. Attendees looked at how queer stories have always been at the heart of Irish society, even as our understanding of those experiences has undergone huge change.
ShoutOut: Trans & Non-Binary 101 Workshop
Friday 16th June, 1 - 2.30pm
Through this online workshop participants gained insight into experiences of trans and non-binary communities in Ireland and built fluency in respectful language and terminology.
Glasnevin Lunchtime Watch Party
Wednesday 21st June, 1 - 2pm
Colleagues joined us for a free lunch and a screening of LGBTQ+ talks that explore this year's Pride theme of 'Protest. Remember. Celebrate'.
St Patrick's Lunchtime Watch Party
Thursday 22nd June, 1-2pm
Colleagues joined us for a free lunch and a screening of LGBTQ+ talks that explore this year's Pride theme of 'Protest. Remember. Celebrate'.
Women in Leadership Mary McAleese Lecture Series Event
As part of DCU's ongoing Women in Leadership Mary McAleese Lecture Series and in celebration of International Women's Day 2023, DCU People was delighted to host our latest Women in Leadership event on Monday 6th March, 2023: DCU Chancellor, Brid Horan in conversation with special guest Rosaleen Blair CBE.
Rosaleen is a passionate entrepreneur, investor, and experienced Chair. In 1996 she founded Alexander Mann Solutions (AMS) to transform the way that blue-chip multinationals attract, engage, and retain top talent. Today, AMS is a global business with 11,000 colleagues in over 100 countries. After 23 years at the helm of AMS, Rosaleen moved from her executive role as CEO and assumed the position of Chair. In the 2017 New Year’s Honours List, Rosaleen was awarded a CBE, and in 2019 she became Chair of the London Irish Centre. Rosaleen is also a Non-Executive Director of Kainos Group; Chair of Everywoman, on the Board of Ludgate, and is a mentor to several growth businesses and female entrepreneurs.
IWD 2023: Lunch with TED
Colleagues across the University joined us for a very special Lunch with Ted to enjoy some inspiring TEDTalks that remind us why International Women's Day is such an important occasion for everyone.
2022
To mark International Men's Day 2022, the EDI Unit were delighted to support an online lunchtime panel discussion at on Thursday 17th November. The discussion was chaired by James O'Higgins Norman, Director of DCU National Anti-Bullying Centre. James was joined by a Panel of DCU colleagues with representation from across the University.
Panelists
Brendan Egan, School of Human Performance
Michael Hinds, School of English
Darragh McCashin, School of Psychology
The discussion explored the theme of friendship/connections and the important role of the same in men's lives - including on their mental, emotional and physical wellbeing.
On Wednesday 15th June, as part of the EDI Pride Programme 2022, we were honoured to be joined by Rebecca Tallon de Havilland for a lunchtime seminar. During this session, Rebecca spoke with DCU's Barry Mulcahy (Head of Learning and Organisational Development) about her LGBTQ+ activism and campaigning work as well as her own personal experiences as a trans woman and human rights advocate.
If you are affected by any of the issues discussed in this seminar, support is available. All DCU staff members have 24/7 free, confidential access to professional support through our Employee Assistance Program.
Support is also available through:
Samaritans 116 123
National LGBT Helpline 1800 929 539
Transgender Family Support Line 01 907 3707
Womens Aid 1800 341 900
Mens Aid Ireland 01 5543811
To celebrate International Women’s Day on Tuesday, 8th March 2022, we were delighted to welcome Bríd Horan to speak as part of the Mary McAleese Women in Leadership Lecture series. Brid was appointed Chancellor of DCU in September 2021.
With over 30 years’ experience in executive, non-executive, and voluntary roles in leading private and public sector organisations she brings a wealth of knowledge. She also has a distinguished record of service and advocacy in NGOs and the arts.
Brid co-founded the 30% Club Ireland, which promotes gender-balance, including opportunities for women to study for careers in STEM -science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
2021
On Friday 19th November, the EDI Unit hosted a Men's Health lunchtime seminar in celebration of International Men's Day 2021.
Dr Brendan Egan from DCU School of Health & Human Performance presented a life course perspective on men's health by focusing on the strategies that support healthy ageing from young adulthood through to older years.
In celebration of Black History Month 2021, the DCU EDI Unit, in collaboration with the DCU Centre of Excellence for Diversity and Inclusion, hosted a virtual event titled ‘Celebrating Black Excellence - Linda Keitasha in conversation with Mr. Bashir Otukoya, Assistant Professor in the School of Law and Government.'
LGBTQ+ Pride Poetry
The EDI Unit invited all colleagues to join a virtual LGBTQ+ Pride Poetry reading in celebration of Pride Month 2021.
Poets from the DCU School of English - Conall Molloy, Kit Fryatt and Rachel Ramirez-Ward - read a selection of their work and then took part in a discussion about queerness and poetry, moderated by Tapasya Narang.
LGBTQ+ Allyship Awareness
In June 2021, the EDI Unit hosted a one hour Allyship Awareness event for all DCU staff in as part of it's Pride Month 2021 programme. This session provided insight into the meaning of allyship and what steps DCU staff can take to be an inclusive colleague, friend and family member.
To mark IDAHOBIT (International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Interphobia and Transpohbia), the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Unit hosted a lunchtime event on Monday, 17th to explore what homophobia is, its impacts and how we can all take action to stop homophobia, biphobia, interphobia and transphobia in order to create a safe university community. The event included contributions from DCU's Anti Bullying Centre, Certified Proud and DCU Students' Union.
In 2021, we celebrated the courage and determination of ordinary women who play and extraordinary role at DCU. Ordinary women whose everyday actions make extraordinary things happen. We are the women of DCU.