EQUITY & BELONGING
Creating A Culture of Belonging
O’Dowd’s charism of "Finding God in All Things" compels us to envision community in diversity. We recognize the inherent dignity of all humans and we strive to understand and respond to the real-world experiences of our community. Our mission is to treat each other as Jesus would - righteously, with love and compassion.
O’Dowd’s student body represents a rich diversity of races, ethnicities, religions, socio-economic backgrounds, traditions, cultures, learning styles, family compositions, and geographies. These unique and multilayered student identities create opportunities for us to learn from each other, broaden our perspectives, respect differences, and ultimately become more aware and empathic global citizens. As a Catholic community, we see all students as children of God and promote equity so that all students may thrive. As St. Irenaeus proclaims, "The glory of God is the person fully alive!"
Key Areas of Focus
Community Engagement
Building a school community that fosters a spirit of equity and belonging for all forms of diversity.
Faculty Collaboration
Equipping all faculty members to develop anti-racist and culturally-responsive curriculum.
Grounded in Catholic Social Justice
Intentionally creating a school community that is culturally responsive and inclusive, rooted in our Catholic Social Justice teaching.
Equitable, Restorative, & Accountable
Promoting a spirit of equity and accountability through a commitment to Restorative Practices.
The O’s of O’Dowd: Symbols of Belonging
At O’Dowd, our iconic O has become a canvas for celebrating the many cultures, identities, interests, talents, and communities that make up our school. Across campus, students and groups have created their own O’s as expressions of who they are and what they bring to our community.
Our new Inclusive O continues that tradition. Created by and for the O’Dowd community, it is our own symbol of LGBTQ+ welcome and belonging, grounded in our charism call to Community in Diversity and our commitment that every member of our community is seen, known, and loved.
Student Clubs & Communities
O’Dowd students find community and connection through a wide range of student-led clubs and associations. Some bring students together around shared cultures and identities, while others grow from common interests, talents, activities, and passions. Together, these groups create opportunities for students to build friendships, celebrate what matters to them, and contribute to the life of our community.
60%
Students of Color
15
Cultural Identity Clubs
50%
Faculty of Color
Building A Culture of Belonging: Commitment to Professional Growth
All faculty and staff, from teachers, counselors and athletic coaches, to campus ministry and administrators, participate in ongoing professional learning to promote belonging and inclusion on campus, equipping all students for success. From workshops, conferences, expert lectures and more, our faculty and staff gain best-practices to teach, coach, and guide students in culturally responsive and relevant ways.
Community Resources
These recommended resources for students and families focus on equity and belonging.
Books:
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Ibram X. Kendi, How to be an Anti-Racist
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Dashka Slater, Accountable
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Frances E. Jensen, MD, The Teenage Brain: A Neuroscientist's Survival Guide to Raising Adolescents and Young Adults
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Thomas Massero, Living Justice: Catholic Social Justice Teaching in Action
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Pope Francis, Laudato Si: On Care for our Common Home
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James Martin, SJ, Building a Bridge: How the Catholic Church and the LGBT Community Can Enter Into a Relationship of Respect, Compassion, and Sensitivity
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Eric Jensen, Teaching with Poverty in Mind
Videos, Podcasts, Articles & Websites:
Mondo Diaz, Director of Equity and Belonging
Raised in Sacramento, Armando graduated from UC Davis with a BA in English Literature. He went on to earn a MA and PPS in School Counseling from St. Mary's College of California. He is inspired every day by the chance to work with young people, helping to build Community in Diversity across O'Dowd's campus.