On September 23rd, 2024, PennWest California hosted a pivotal event at the Convocation Center, focusing on the concept of dignity in disagreement through the lens of the DEI: Dignity Index Training. This event, set up by Dr. Sheleta Camarda-Webb, Chief of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) at PennWest California, highlighted the importance of how we engage with those who hold different views. The initiative was brought to by Emily Howe, Manager from the Office of Research, and co-presented by Tami Pyfer, Chief of Staff & Vice President of External Affairs at UNITE, along with her daughter. 

The Dignity Index, an eight-point scale, measures how we approach disagreements. It encourages a shift from division and contempt (represented by a one on the scale) to seeing the dignity in everyone, even those we disagree with (represented by an eight). Pyfer, who co-created the Dignity Index and led the Utah Project demonstration pilot, emphasized the importance of understanding humanity in every viewpoint. 

In an interview, Savannah Dorsey, Assistant Director of DEI at PennWest California, explained how this event and the Dignity Index Training could impact the university.

“We all come from different backgrounds, and our conversations are important,” Dorsey noted. “The Dignity Index Training helps us listen and understand, rather than just respond.”

Dorsey highlighted how the index training fosters self-reflection and helps individuals become more mindful of the language they use. While not everyone may reach an 8 in how they approach disagreements, aiming for a middle ground, like a 4, encourages awareness and respect in dialogue. 

During the event, the Dignity Index was used to rate political statements and analyze how dignity or the lack of public discourse is shaped. Polls were conducted with students and faculty to gauge how these principles could influence conversations on campus. According to Dorsey, the initiative allows people to speak freely while also promoting understanding and respect, even when opinions diverge. 

Tami Pyfer, in her presentation, discussed her experience in education policy and how this informed her role in developing the Dignity Index. Pyfer’s work, alongside her role in Special Education at Utah State University, underscores the broader goal of the index: to ensure that every voice, particularly those from diverse backgrounds, is heard with respect and dignity. 

When asked how the Dignity Index could affect newcomers at PennWest, Dorsey responded, “We’re not all going to talk at an eight, but a four. Being more aware of what you say and understanding others’ perspectives will help create a more inclusive environment.”

She concluded, “Language goes a long way.” 

The Dignity Index is part of a growing movement across the nation to create more equitable, inclusive, and respectful conversations, especially in spaces where disagreement is inevitable. By introducing this at PennWest California, the university is taking steps to ensure that students and faculty alike engage in discussions that prioritize dignity, respect, and understanding. 

To learn more about the Dignity Index and its application in fostering productive conversations, visit dignity.us.