Learn to build a world where

everyone belongs.

Take free classes with the Othering & Belonging Institute (OBI) at UC Berkeley. We help changemakers build more vibrant, just and inclusive communities and structures. 

Together at OBI University, we’ll learn about structural marginalization, the processes of othering, and the building blocks of belonging, so we can co-create a world where all are included in our circle of care and concern.

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Leap into OBI University now! 

Across the planet, people are looking for effective ways to build just, equitable and inclusive institutions that serve and support everyone. Even more challenging, we’re looking for ways to do so without fueling the growing fragmentation that is separating us from each other and our sense of humanity.

Under the leadership of legal scholar john a. powell, OBI has created a distinct belonging framework that is a set of values, practices, principles and tools that can help you root out structural inequality and exclusion of all kinds while helping all of us turn towards, rather than against each other. Beyond a call for inclusion into pre-existing structures built to serve only some of us, belonging asks each of us to commit to co-creating new structures built for everyone.

Othering

Exclusion

Bridging

Belonging

Equity

Inclusion

Marginality

What is

OBI University?

Our online university is a free hub of learning and community for people committed to building a more vibrant, just, equitable and inclusive world.  

Courses are built on
the Othering & Belonging framework. Expert instructors guide you through a transformative learning experience, providing the tools and resources you need to turn your passion for social justice into action. Programs are designed to be accessible and flexible, so you can learn at your own pace and fit education into your busy life.

When you enroll at OBI University, you become part of a vibrant community of learners committed to co-creation. This is a place to connect, share ideas and resources, and find inspiration as you work to make a difference.

Learn foundational knowledge for

bridging & belonging

Videos

Watch interactive videos guided by experts

Community

Engage in dialogue with a community of bridgers

Journals

Reflect on your learning through writing exercises

Certificates

Track your learning journey and share your successes

Explore free courses featuring renowned

thinkers & doers

john a. powell

Judith Butler

bell hooks

Bayo Akomolafe

Joy Harjo

Winona LaDuke

Alok Vaid-Menon

...and many more

Who should enroll in OBI University?

Anyone! We strongly believe that everyone can benefit from the Othering & Belonging framework — artists, educators, policymakers, activists, administrators, DEI professionals, businesses, parents, students, and beyond.

Courses are all free, so if you’re curious you can dip your toes before you decide to dive in.

Is OBI University really free?

Yes, our learning platform is and always will be free!

What subjects do you cover?

At launch, we offer courses on the fundamentals concepts of Othering & Belonging. We are quickly preparing courses on structural racism and foundations of the practice of bridging — stay tuned for more. All of our courses span from conceptual to practical, structural to cultural, and more. 

Click here to view our course page. 
Once there, you can click on each class to see an overview of the material covered. We are working to expand our course library; sign up for our newsletter to keep up-to-date. 

How do I get started with OBI University?

It’s as simple as hitting the register button below. If you’d like more instructions, click here to access our “How To” page to learn more.

Want to

learn more?

Ready to start?