Students thrive — socially and academically — in environments that are inclusive.

More than half of students describe their schools as "quick to put people into categories."

40% of students admitted that they had rejected someone from another group.

70% of students named the cafeteria as the school setting where social boundaries are most clearly drawn.

Mix it Up at Lunch Day helps students become more comfortable interacting with different kinds of people.

You care, you're someone who can change the school and bring down the walls!

Sources: Mix It Up Surveys, 2002-2005

Students and their teacher allies can help form safe, welcoming schools - places where every student can grow socially and academically. Research shows that Mix It Up programming really works.

In a survey of Mix It Up at Lunch Day organizers in 2006, for example:

• 97% of respondents said students' interactions were positive during Mix It Up at Lunch Day.
• 95% of respondents said Mix It Up at Lunch Day prompted students to interact with people outside of their normal social circles.
• 92% of respondents said Mix It Up at Lunch Day increased awareness about social boundaries and divisions within school.
• 83% of respondents said the event helped students make new friends.
• 79% of respondents said as a result of the Day students have heightened sensitivity towards tolerance and social justice issues.
• 78% of the respondents said as a result of the Day students seem more comfortable interacting with different kinds of people.

Students enjoy participating in Mix It Up activities — experiences that provide them with valuable insight into the experiences of others.