Providence mixes it up at lunch
Published Dec 7, 2007School can be a challenging environment where fitting in is a key goal. It is a well-known fact that students thrive socially and academically in schools with inclusive and welcoming atmospheres. Unfortunately, exclusion, hate and prejudice based on race, academic and athletic ability, social class, appearance and other differences contribute to the atmosphere of some schools. According to information obtained from www.tolerance.org, more than half of students feel that their schools are quick to put people into categories and 40 percent of students admit that they have rejected someone from another group. The cafeteria is named by 70 percent of students as the school setting in which social boundaries are most clearly drawn.
On Nov. 13, Providence Catholic students participated in Mix It Up at Lunch to promote tolerance, acceptance and the Augustinian value of unity. Sponsored by Students Teaching Acceptance Not Discrimination club, students were asked to sit at tables according to their shirt color. This exercise encouraged students to overcome social barriers by sitting with people who are not in their usual lunch crowd.
According to junior Jennifer Michaels, “Mix It Up at Lunch Day is a great way for teens to meet new people. When I mixed it up at lunch, I was able to go beyond my own group of friends and enjoy being with different people. Without this opportunity, you might miss the chance to meet a potential friend. People might be afraid to be outgoing and to introduce themselves to others, but this was a chance to do it as a community, which made it easier.”
Surveys show that students enjoy participating in Mix It Up activities. In a 2006 survey, 97 percent of respondents felt that students’ reactions were positive during Mix It Up at Lunch Day while 95 percent stated that the exercise prompted students to interact with people outside of their normal social circles. In addition, 92 percent of respondents believed that Mix It Up at Lunch Day increased awareness about social boundaries and divisions within school.
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