Diversity & Respect

Word of the Month

Each month, there will be a meaningful, positive word posted around campus, underscoring UMMC’s values. The “Word of the Month” is a visual reminder of the institution’s standards when it comes to the promotion of a respectful and inclusive environment. Words are posted in the elevators and bulletin boards around campus. Managers are encouraged to post the word in their departments or units and to use the word as a “talking point” to stimulate dialogue with employees.


Definition:	A relation or reference to a particular thing or situation: an act of giving particular attention: Consideration: high or special regard: Esteem: the quality or state of being esteemed: expressions of high or special regard or deference: particular, detail https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/respect
Suggested talking points and questions:	What does respect mean to you? How do you measure respect in the workplace? What are some respectful behaviors? Do you consider yourself to be respectful?
Quote from UMMC faculty, employees, and students:	“Respect entails having regard for the rights, feelings, traditions, and wishes of others. When we respect one another, we choose to have an awareness of how our words and actions impact others. Regard for others, coupled with awareness of how we treat one another, helps to foster a diverse and inclusive environment in which individuals can feel comfort in expressing who they are.” Kristen J. Alston, PhD Assistant Dean for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Tenured Associated Professor of Family Medicine School of Medicine University of Mississippi Medical Center
This month recognizes:	National Disability Employment Awareness Month Breast Cancer Awareness Month Health Literacy Month SIDS Awareness Month National Medical Librarians Month Global Diversity Awareness Month National Healthcare Quality Week (Oct. 15 - Saturday, Oct. 21, 2023) National Health Education Week (Monday, Oct. 16 - Friday, Oct. 20, 2023) World Food Day (Monday, Oct. 16, 2023)
Resource(s):	Article: Respect in the Workplace: How to Show Respect and Promote It Respect in the Workplace: How To Show Respect and Promote It \| Indeed.com Article: Respect: How Managers Can Deliver What Workers Want Respect: How Managers Can Deliver What Workers Want (shrm.org)