Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Overview
CAPS is dedicated to supporting and uplifting the diverse experiences of Cal Maritime
students. We provide mental health care for individuals and groups in a campus community
where there exist historical causes to current health inequities. Based on training
and personal experience, CAPS counselors foster discussions of race, gender, class,
sexual orientation, and other identities so to improve the self-awareness and interpersonal
relations of students. These efforts are guided by our shared community values of
fairness and dignity, which we uphold through ongoing development of self-awareness,
cultural
humility, and professional expertise.
Community Resources for Students from Underrepresented Backgrounds
When Injustice Happens
The above DEI statement, informed by works including APA Dvision 45's Statement on Racism, guides our responses to injustice and highlights our commitment to take meaningful, culturally responsive action. Additionally, as mental health professionals, our ethical codes guide us to pursue justice, value the dignity and worth of every human, and to commit ourselves to the embodiment of diversity, inclusion, cultivation of cultural humility, and advocacy for equity for all. As events and injustices happen, whether in the San Francisco Bay Area or around the world, we'll respond to them as an acknowledgement of our awareness, a commitment to supporting those impacted, and as a reminder that there is more work to do to make the world a more just and equitable place.
We hope to stand next to you, our students, when you or your community experiences injustice. We are aware that every person's needs are unique and that you already have systems of support in place and coping mechanisms that you are using. We don’t presume to suggest we can fix your justifiable pain in moments of violence and oppression, but we are here to listen and come alongside you. Our goal is to collaborate with you to provide care that feels responsive to your unique needs.
Our responsive services have included (but are not limited to):
- Urgent/same day services
- Group support spaces; Let’s Talk, a confidential, drop-in, one-on-one informal consultation
- Consultations with faculty, staff, and student leaders
- Speaking at student group meetings or classrooms when invited
- Joining other departments on campus or student groups in their events related to the injustice and community trauma. Please reach out to us at caps@csum.edu or 707-654-1170.
The Bias Education & Support Team (BEST)
The Bias Education and Support Team (BEST) responds to reported bias incidents in order to continue to foster a community that is welcoming and inclusive to all. The BEST was formed in 2024 to address and respond to bias incidents in order to better understand our campus climate.
The Bias Education and Support Team (BEST) shares the University's commitment to a culturally diverse and inclusive climate that fosters intellectual and academic freedom, the free expression and exchange of all ideas, and the well being of its students, faculty, staff and visitors.
For more information about the BEST please visit https://www.csum.edu/diversity/best/