On one random afternoon after my class, I went to the Lower Gag to get a sandwich for lunch. It was another stressful Monday, so I was glad to take a short break from classes. I sat down, contemplating if I should do my homework or procrastinate.  

As I unwrapped my Einstein’s sandwich, I was asked to be interviewed for an article for the Wayne Stater. I agreed, thinking it would be short. I was asked one question: “What do you think about diversity on campus?” It was a loaded question, but I tried my best to answer carefully so my answers sounded respectful and educated.  

After the quick interview was done and my picture was taken, I went back to eating my sandwich. As I reflected on what had happened, all I could think was “why did they interview me?” It bothered me heavily, but I tried to brush it off and finish the day. 

Throughout the week, I was so busy with school that I hardly remembered being interviewed. Then, on the following Tuesday, I received a text message from one of my friends which said “Did you see the paper?!” I was confused until she told me people were furious about an article that I was in. I ran to the nearest newspaper stand to see what had been posted. I lifted up the front page and was stunned. To my disbelief, there were five pictures of white women interviewed in an article about diversity on campus.  

I began reading the article with one of my friends. After I was done reading my section, I was infuriated. The only words that came out of my mouth were “I didn’t say that.” I did not know what to do. I was misquoted, on the front page of the newspaper, with my picture  displayed for all to see.  

When I got interviewed originally, I talked about the types of diversity that I have seen on campus. I know plenty of transfers from South Africa, Brazil, and so on. I also talked about those who identify as LGBTQ+. I added some clubs that Wayne State offers that relate to diversity and inclusion as well.  

Originally, I am from a small town with little diversity, so  WSC is a vast improvement. Compared to what I grew up knowing, I am happy to see the amount of diversity on campus. 

I believe that the Wayne State campus has diversity, but there is always room to expand and improve. I believe that everyone, myself included, should educate themselves on diversity and fight for equality. Together we can fight, learn, and create change.