Every fall and spring during Multicultural Education Week, Salve Regina University celebrates the diversity that makes our campus and our world extraordinary. The October 2025 events included a timely discussion on freedom of speech, a look back at colonial Newport in the context of influences from Portugal, the Caribbean, Africa and Amsterdam, a coffee talk on inclusion, a discussion about Bell Hooks’ “Ain’t I a Woman” and a thought-provoking keynote on implicit bias. The week wrapped up with a night of celebration and acceptance where participants shared food, fashion and music from cultures around the world.
Criminal justice major Momo Lesperance ’26, an intern in the Office of Multicultural Programs, participated in several of the week’s events, but it was the keynote speech by Victoria Alexander on implicit bias that stood out for her, delivering insights that got attendees to challenge their own preconceived notions and engage in thoughtful reflection.
“The subject is profoundly important, and I left with the understanding that meaningful change doesn’t happen overnight,” Lesperance said. “However, as long as I live and breathe, I am committed to advocating for what is right. Even if I may not witness the full extent of progress within my lifetime, I believe I can help lay the groundwork for future transformation.”
Global studies major Zora Felix ’26 is also an intern in the Office of Multicultural Programs. She helped facilitate “Coffee or Tea: Let’s Talk Inclusion” as well as participating in the conversation. Held during lunchtime, the event “creates a comfortable space to meet new people in a casual, welcoming environment where students, staff and faculty come and go, making it a great opportunity to connect across different groups,” Felix said.
The speaker at the event was Rose Albert ’13, the executive director at Rhode Island for Community and Justice and a Salve alum. “She encouraged us to move around and sit with new people, which helped spark meaningful conversations,” Felix said. “The event felt incredibly welcoming. It left me with the reminder of how important it is to create spaces that are inclusive and welcoming for everyone at Salve, and that small actions can make a big difference in building community.”
You can see photos from the Multicultural Festival here.