Recognizing Juneteenth and Celebrating Freedom

CAS is proud to recognize the historical and timely importance of the Juneteenth holiday, celebrating freedom, unity, and resilience.  On June 19, 1865, nearly two years after President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation, enslaved African Americans in Texas were informed of this decree and were granted their freedom. Since then, Juneteenth has been regarded as a day of celebration of freedom for many in the United States. 

Freedom Day also provides an opportunity to recognize the importance of cultural diversity, equity, and inclusion. CAS offers resources to assist higher education professionals in ensuring their institutions meet the standards of DEI programming on campus.

CAS offers resources such as the Multicultural Student Programs and Services Standards and Self-Assessment Guide. Multicultural Student Programs and Services (MSPS) must facilitate the learning and development of traditionally underserved students; offer programs that educate the campus about diversity, multiculturalism, and interaction across differences in a global society; convene departments across campus to facilitate intercultural dialogue; and work with on- and off-campus stakeholders to create an institutional community climate of justice, access, and equity. Learn more about this resource here.

CAS DEI Statement

CAS values, embraces, and recognizes the need to foster equitable and inclusive communities to promote student learning, development, success, and belonging.

CAS recognizes the historical and ongoing challenges around discrimination, racism, and oppression present in higher education. As a strategic area of focus, CAS will be an inclusive organization that reflects the broad and diverse higher education community. CAS is committed to advocating for creating programs and services that advance equitable outcomes for all students. CAS serves as a conduit of professional standards for post-secondary institutions and member associations to foster a framework for inclusive and equitable environments. CAS will also work to identify and address barriers and inequities to promote socially just assessment and evaluation practices and partner in support of student learning, development, and success.