January 2022
Race, Privilege and Access to Education Resources with Derek Keith
Public education resources are meant to be equally accessible to all students. But intentions do not always match reality. Why do some students excel in the classroom and not others? How were the standard measurements for “intelligence” created, and why do they impact students of color differently? Research demonstrates that testing, and consequently differential treatment, can impact the way students perform, their opportunities for achievement, and sense of self-worth. Educational outcomes for all students are influenced by the history, social…
Find out more »February 2022
What is Patriotism? with Dr. Matthew Whitaker
Patriotism has been defined as loyalty to or defense of one’s country. What do political leaders and social activists mean when they use the term “patriot”? What is the difference between patriotism and nationalism? Throughout history people have demonstrated patriotism through military service, government service, protests, marches, sit-ins and more. How is patriotism expressed now? Recently we have seen peaceful marches and violent clashes described simultaneously as “acts of terrorism” and “patriotic.” Join us for an in-depth conversation about the…
Find out more »March 2022
Dog Whistle Language in the Media: How Can We Hear It? with Derek Keith
“Gang activity. The war on drugs. Tough on crime. They are taking our jobs. They are bad drivers. They are lazy. They are good people.” What images do these phrases and terms conjure in your mind? What does the media suggest with these coded phrases? Suggestive language, or “dog whistle” language, uses specific terms to signal ideas to us that we subconsciously internalize. How can we begin to actively analyze all parts of the language we hear in the news…
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