Our Values

Committed to Social Justice

View List of Social Justice Courses

The Department of Geography and Sustainability is committed to equity and social justice through the recognition, celebration, and commitment to difference and the inclusion of historically and currently marginalized voices, people, and experiences. We recognize that systemic discrimination and exclusion are inherent in the traditions of higher education. We work to address intentional and unintentional exclusionary practices and to rectify unfair and disrespectful outcomes. We commit to on-going conversation and action to dismantle injustice and systemic barriers to the full and equal participation and success of all people at the University of Tennessee attentive to the intersecting dimensions of difference including race, ethnicity, gender, class, religion, language, ability, sexual orientation, gender identity, nationality, tribal affiliation, age, and geographic region among others. The Department aims to be reflexive, transparent, and accountable as we strive to foster a climate in which respect for diversity, equity, and inclusion becomes part of all departmental life including curriculum, hiring, community engagement, and efforts to recruit and support students.

We are committed to working with all students, staff, and faculty to promote a safe space of learning, listening, and reflection. If you have any questions or would like to offer input to the plan or process for implementation, please get in touch with Dr. Nikki Luke.

Campus Resources

• Division of Access and Engagement
• Office of Equity and Diversity
• Office of Multicultural Student Life 
• Pride Center 
• Office of Title IX
• Office of Ombuds Services
• Study Abroad (Resources and Funding Opportunities)

Curriculum Resources and Further Reading List 

• Curriculum Development and Community Resources for Geographers