Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Action

Seven student leaders and ten faculty and staff members from Harvard-Westlake attended the 2025 AsEA Conference in Atlanta, themed "Our Space, Our Stories: Represent, Resist, Reclaim." Students participated in workshops on AAPI identity, intersectionality, microaggressions, activism, and belonging, engaging with peers from across the country in powerful conversations around community and leadership. On the final day, they presented reflections on topics such as the model minority myth, mental health, and social media’s impact on identity and concluded the trip with a visit to the World of Coca-Cola Museum rounding out a meaningful and inspiring experience.

On April 9, the entire 9th grade visited the Museum of Tolerance for a powerful and immersive experience. Students explored the history of Nazi Germany and the Holocaust, examined contemporary issues of hate in the Peltz Social Lab, and engaged with interactive exhibits like the Point of View Cube and Global Crisis Center—encouraging reflection on identity, responsibility, and inclusion. In honor of the upcoming Yom HaShoah—Holocaust Remembrance Day—the Harvard-Westlake community will continue its commitment to remembrance through meaningful programs across divisions. Middle School students will hear from a third-generation survivor, while 10th graders will meet a Holocaust survivor who lived in hiding during the war. Together, these experiences reaffirm our dedication to education, empathy, and confronting hate.

Over Spring Break, students traveled to Washington, D.C., to explore Black history, culture, and community. The trip included visits to the Lincoln and Martin Luther King Jr. memorials, Frederick Douglass’ historic home, and the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture. Students also explored the African Art Museum, participated in a vibrant African drumming and dance class, and toured both Howard and Georgetown universities. The trip ended with fun and bonding activities, including a Washington Wizards game and a visit to Dave & Buster’s to make for an unforgettable trip full of learning, culture, and connection.

Recently, the MS SASA (South Asian Student Alliance) affinity group hosted their annual Holi Celebration, bringing a splash of joy and color to campus! Along with their classmates, students enjoyed a little colorful chaos. Holi, known as the "Festival of Colors," marks the arrival of spring and the victory of good over evil! Traditionally, people celebrate by throwing vibrant powders, dancing, and sharing festive treats.

South Asian Student Alliance (SASA), Middle Eastern Student Alliance (MESA), and Muslim Student Association (MSA) came together for a special Lunch & Learn to celebrate and educate the community about Ramadan. Attendees enjoyed dates and cookies while hearing from Harvard-West;ake community members currently observing the holiday. A slideshow and an interactive Kahoot game helped deepen understanding of Ramadan’s significance, fostering a space for learning, reflection, and cultural appreciation.

The head of Harvard-Westlake’s fencing program shared her inspiring journey of resilience and determination. Immigrating from Lima as a lawyer, she transitioned from working at one of the most prestigious fencing clubs to taking a job at Fry’s Electronics and later becoming a teaching assistant. A pivotal suggestion led her to reach out to USA Fencing, which connected her with private schools ultimately bringing her to HW. Her story highlighted the power of persistence, perseverance, and seizing opportunities, encouraging students to stay determined and never give up on their goals.

Harvard-Westlake welcomed Father Greg Boyle to an all-school assembly, a Jesuit priest and founder of Homeboy Industries, the world’s largest gang rehabilitation and re-entry program, Father Boyle has dedicated his life to transforming lives through compassion, kinship, and opportunity. His work challenges us to rethink justice, community, and the power of second chances. Father Boyle’s message of hope and radical kinship is sure to inspire and resonate with our community.

Comedian and actor Chris Rock, known for Grown Ups, Everybody Hates Chris, and voicing Marty in Madagascar, shared insights on his career and the challenges of diversity in entertainment. Organized by Harvard-Westlake’s Art & Business Club, Chris Rock reflected on his time at Saturday Night Live and acknowledged that he was essentially a diversity, equity, and inclusion hire, brought in during a time when SNL faced criticism for its lack of diversity. He discussed how invisible barriers made it easier for other comedians to land roles, despite his own talent. His reflections underscored the importance of intentional efforts to break down systemic barriers and create opportunities for underrepresented voices.