We have been approached on several occasions with questions regarding the naming, membership, and focus of the Multicultural Graduate Student Association (MGSA). Thus, this statement hopes to provide some clarification.  Please consider the following:

We would like to emphasize that membership in MGSA is open to ALL graduate students. ANY graduate student at MUSC who shares the goals of MGSA as stated in our Constitution (e.g., enhancing the well-being of ALL graduate students presently enrolled at the MUSC with particular concern to specific needs of students of color) is welcome.

"People of Color" is a term typically used to refer to non-Caucasian people, which is understood to include many cultures (such as those of the African Diaspora, Hispanics, Native Americans, Asians, etc.). Thus, the term  "people of color" is indeed "multicultural" in nature.  Also, upon the founding of MGSA, we chose "multicultural" rather than "minority" or even "Black" because of the more inclusive nature of the term.

Students of color and those of certain cultural groups have unique challenges (e.g., economic, educational, and social), particularly with regard to matriculating through an advanced degree program here at MUSC.  MGSA provides a forum for the exchange of ideas and information that is of interest to such individuals.  The issues and concerns that this organization may address are varied including those that specifically affect underrepresented minorities (typically defined by federal agencies to include African-Americans, Hispanics, Native Americans, Asians and Pacific Islanders) as well issues affecting the culturally disenfranchised. 

The focus of MGSA at any given time is determined by its membership. Our current focus is the strengthening MUSC's recruitment efforts targeting African-Americans. The greater the diversity of membership the more expanded the concerns of the organization.  Hence, we encourage membership in this organization from all cultures as we view diversity as strength.

We hope that this will provide some clarity.  Please visit our website, attend our meetings, and chat with our members.  Best wishes in your endeavors.

The Multicultural Graduate Student Association
October 2002