Almost one year ago in the midst of a global pandemic, we watched the death of George Floyd. Americans responded, protesting the realities of racial injustice in cities across the country. For many individuals, this may have been the first time they recognized the depth and breadth of discrimination in the United States, in their communities, and in their classrooms.
From book clubs to corporate campaigns, the country has been inspired to engage in deep thought and discussion of their role in the creation, development, and advancement of racial discrimination.
The 2021 Bennion Teachers’ Workshop, originating later this month from USU, is titled: “Hidden in the Shadows of Democracy: Engaging & Teaching the Strength of Race & Difference.” Marisela Martinez-Cola, Assistant Professor in the USU Department of Sociology will direct the workshop, joined by specialists, to explore ways to transform difficult conversations about racism and difference into meaningful action. The organizers say that this will not be just another “diversity” workshop. The goal of this workshop is to deliver practical material for educators to incorporate in their classrooms and institutions.