Journalists of Color Club

Bucking the trend of identity-specific journalism organizations, JOC@CalPoly is shaking things up and making a difference. Founded by journalism students Cassandra Garcia and Naomi Vanderlip, the Journalists of Color Club prioritizes creating a welcoming space for journalists from all backgrounds by offering bi-weekly meetups for networking, skill-building and discussions on diversity in journalism. The club has even launched a mentorship program to help members grow and collaborate. 

The JOC club was formed in January when co-presidents Cassandra Garcia and Naomi Vanderlip applied for a club charter and designated Professor Julie Lynem as their adviser. The club meets every other week on Tuesdays at 8:00 p.m. in the Graphic Arts Building. The club also holds social gatherings during some off-weeks, such as beach bonfires and hikes. These gatherings allow members to network, share experiences, and enhance their professional development skills. Notably, JOC recently introduced a mentorship program, pairing members to facilitate mutual growth.

Jazmyn Chavez, a journalism major and JOC outreach coordinator, said "I feel like whenever I lead a discussion or pose a question to the group, I always get a lot of really good interaction, genuine interest, and excitement to discuss these topics and enhance diversity in the newsroom."

In a bid to expand its membership, JOC initiated an outreach program, welcoming individuals interested in club involvement, irrespective of their major or racial identity. During winter quarter, club members ventured beyond the journalism department, engaging with classes to raise awareness and garner interest across the student body.

Cassandra Garcia, a journalism major and JOC co-president, emphasizes, "We want to be as inclusive as possible, encompassing both white students and students of color, while ensuring the maintenance of a safe space."

Echoing this sentiment, Naomi Vanderlip, a journalism and English double major and JOC co-president, underscores the importance of collaboration between journalists of color and allies, stating, "We're not going to be able to progress as a department if we don't have allies who understand how to report on topics of diversity. Thus, we need the cohesion of journalists of color partnering with supportive allies to foster future progress."