Intercultural Resource Center

The Intercultural Resource Center (a.k.a. the IRC) was founded back in 1983 as “The United Minority Board,” based on the principles of equity and inclusion. For nearly 40 years, it has provided programs and support services for students of color and LGBTQ students, as well as diversity discussion and training opportunities for all Columbia University students.

Columbia offers several physical spaces in addition to the IRC that serve as social and community hubs for different underrepresented groups. These include the Malcolm X Lounge (for Black students), the Stephen Donaldson Lounge (for LGBTQ students), and the Audre Lorde Community Space (for identity-conscious community building).

Columbia University has one of the most diverse college campuses nationwide, with a long history of civic engagement, activism and access. Columbia is home to the nation’s first African American student advocacy group on a multi-racial campus and the first LGBT advocacy group on any college campus. Today, our community includes students from all 50 states and more than 100 foreign countries, over half of our students identify as students of color, and 17% of students are the first in their families to attend college.

With 40+ identity based groups, it’s easy to find students from a similar background to yours and connect. These clubs will often host cultural events for the larger student body such as the Chinese Students Club’s annual “Night Market” or the annual Holi celebration put on by the Hindu Students Organization.