As early as 1948, W.E.B. DuBois taught a university course in African-American history and culture at The New School. Now, almost seventy years later, the New Black School continues the tradition by organizing Black Lives Matter 101, a series of “classes” examining Black social movements in the 21st century.
Topics include the role of faith in advancing social movements, the relationship of the “new” civil rights movement to nascent social movements, the role of technology and new media in controlling and creating new narratives in justice movements, the global efforts to advance justice for Black people worldwide, and the critical need for more action in the realms of health and environmental justice.
Each “class” features a panel of “visiting scholars,” experts, activists and a recommended reading list. In keeping with the New School’s academic tradition, participants should come prepared to engage, challenge ideas, and commit to individual action.
Class #1 – Mobilizing the African Diaspora
How do we mobilize people from around the world into fully formed international movement? movement? How do we build these coalitions locally and across the globe? This panel examines these questions and more as they explore the African Diaspora and its role in facilitating an international movement.
Class #2 – Slow Death: Black Health and Environmental Justice
Environmental justice and health equity are highly connected issues that disproportionately impact communities of color. The panel explores racial justice, equity, and diversity through the lens of black social movements.
Class #3 – Faith in America’s Social Movements
This panel explores how religion and spiritual affect Black social movements and can be leveraged to advance progressive agendas in policy-making institutions.
Class #4 – Tech and New Media
This panel explores how technology has strengthened traditionally unheard voices in Black social movements. Participants will also ask how we can control narratives and present radical alternative messaging in the era of new media.
Class #5 – New Civil Rights Movement
This panel explores the challenges and opportunities facing the Black Lives Matter movement as it defines itself as the new civil rights movement of our time. Panelists will expound upon the potential to partner with other social movements, influence upcoming elections, and learn from past successes and failures. Locations vary. Please click on individual event links for more details.
Follow along on Twitter with the hashtags:
#BLM101
#NewBlackSchool
#GetSchooled
The Black Lives Matter Symposium is organized by The New Black School. Co- sponsored by Eugene Lang College of Liberal Arts, Milano School of International Affairs, Management, and Policy, the Schools of Public Engagement, the Office of Student Development and Activities, the University Student Senate, and the Lang Student Union.