The Diversity Common Reader Program (DCRP) is a semester-long, campus-wide initiative that focuses on reading as a means of social dialogue and change. Held annually since 2013, this program comprises an interdisciplinary series of events inspired by a nonfiction book that advances discussions of diversity, inclusion, and justice. Each year, books are distributed free of charge to interested NMU students (on a first-come-first-served basis), and all events are free and open to the public. For more information, contact the DCRP committee chair (llarkin@nmu.edu) or the Office of Diversity and Inclusion (diversity@nmu.edu, 906-227-2000).
2020-2021 Diversity Common Reader Selection
Working squarely within the prophetic tradition of literary giants James Baldwin and Richard Wright, Coates explores what it means to live in a black body in contemporary America. Between the World and Me folds trenchant social critique into an intimate letter addressed to the author's son, and is a singular and deeply compelling treatment of issues at the heart of the antiracist protests that have defined 2020.
DCRP Events for 2020-2021
| Event Description | Date/time | Location | |
| Book Distribution: Free to NMU students | November 4-12 |
Lydia M. Olson Library, English Department, Multicultural Education and Resource Center, Disability Student Services, and hte Center for Student Enrichment. For a free ebook (Kindle format) NMU students can sign up here. |
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| Between the World and Me: In Conversation - Panel Discussion | November 13, 2pm |
Virtual - free tickets available at NMU Ticketing Office Watch the live recorded zoom discussion at the link here |
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| Winter Break Book Club |
December 15, 7pm December 29, 7pm Part II (pp. 73-132)
January 12, 7pm Part III (pp. 133-152) |
Virtual. Space is limited. Register at the link here | |
| Film Screening: Black Panther (in collaboration with Campus Cinema) | January 30, 6pm | Jamrich 1100 | |
| Between the World and Me: Virtual Voices - Curated selection of readings and responses | February 26, 7:30pm | Virtual - free tickets available at NMU Ticketing Office | |
| Lecture: Erika Edwards, Professor of History at UNC - Charlotte (in collaboration with UNITED) | March 25 | Virtual | |
| Book Discussion: Erika Edwards, Professor of History at UNC - Charlotte (in collaboration with UNITED) | March 26 | Virtual |