Rituals at universities are often thought to help people feel like they belong. But sometimes, they can actually create problems.
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Exclusivity:
- Many rituals seem to favor certain groups. This can make others feel left out, especially those who do not share the same backgrounds or beliefs.
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Reinforcement of Hierarchies:
- Some traditional rituals can strengthen social rankings. This can make it hard for less represented groups to feel included and connected.
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Resistance to Change:
- Long-standing rituals might not change much, even if newer students or society’s ideas are different. This can leave some people feeling disconnected.
Solutions:
- Universities should focus on being welcoming to everyone. This means changing rituals to include more diverse voices and ideas.
- Regularly checking how well rituals are working can help them stay relevant and reflect the diverse community. This way, everyone can feel like they truly belong.