Educators for Democracy Lecture Series, December 15th, 2024!

Sunday, December 15th, 2024, 3-6 pm PST / 6-9 pm EST

We are confronted today in America by an attack on truth in education. It is an attempt by politically motivated individuals, government offices, and politicians to halt the full teaching of American life by eradicating fully truthful aspects of our past, present, and potential futures. At their core, such attacks seek to erase the triumphs of African Americans, women, LGBTQ+ Americans, and others who have been vital in the struggle for civil rights and voting justice. The Institute for Common Power cannot and will not idly watch. To this end, we have created the Educators for Democracy speaker series to teach truth and encourage action that brings to fruition an inclusive democracy.

We will feature five educators from across the country each quarter who will deliver thirty minute lectures on some aspect of American democracy. Each educator is an Institute for Common Power Educator Ambassador, which means they have traveled with us on a Truth & Purpose Leaning Tour. They are part of our community and understand the power of how education leads to action. The lectures will have a heavy focus on history and will work to connect the past to the present as they encourage people to engage in work that focuses on social and voting justice.

Structure of program:

• The program is virtual.
• Dates and times are as follows: Sunday, May 19, September 22, December 15 from 3:00 pm PST to 6:00 pm PST (6:00 pm EST to 9:00 pm EST)
• Join us for part or all of the program.
• Five educators will each have thirty minute spots to deliver a lecture and answer questions from the audience.
• This program is free for the public.

Presenters

Shernita Wiggins-Wynder - “Rep Yo’ City!” The Danger of Forgetting Is Repeating: Unlearn the Lies

If history wasn’t important, then why do we have nonfiction books? All history is American history; no matter how distressing it may be, every generation has a right to know and grow. Join me as I share how to tap into the history where you live to uncover hidden truths that will strengthen the next generation. There’s a danger in forgetting.

Joey Nicklas - The History of Public Transportation and the Black Community - From Segregation to Discriminatory Funding

Desegregating public transportation was a hallmark of the fight for civil rights for Black Americans, from Charlotte Brown in San Francisco in 1863, through Homer Plessy in 1896, the 1940s and 50s efforts to desegregate both interstate and intrastate bus lines, to issues today - depriving Black and Brown communities of adequate public transportation funding or strategic efforts by governments to derive Black and Brown communities of their ability to fulfill their civic duty to vote.

Yvens Berger - The Role of Democracy in Reducing Political Chaos

Democracy emerged as a response to the need for a political system that involves more stakeholders in governance, promoting shared decision-making and reducing societal conflicts. By allowing broader participation and representation, democracy helps maintain order and stability by reflecting the will of the people while safeguarding individual rights. This presentation will explore how democratic structures aim to minimize chaos and create a balanced, cooperative political environment.

Merril Holloway - How did we get here? Constitutional Laws and the Racial Narrative in America

This lecture will examine significant constitutional laws that influenced the racial narrative in America. It is essential to explore the historical narratives of America and how these events influenced the foundation of our current difficulties. Education is fundamental to our society and influences our American identity. Uncovering the truth about our history and its influence on the present is essential. Examining critical historical events is vital in influencing a brighter future.

Meg O’Brien - Deerfield, Massachusetts: A Legacy Of New England Enslavement

The legacy of slavery is not one solely connected to the South. New England played a significant role in the slave trade, as well as the enslavement of men, women, and children. This history has often been overlooked and discarded, with New England looking to disassociate with its past. However, Deerfield, Massachusetts. a registered historical site, has begun to reckon with its past and tell the whole history of its past. This is that history.

Event Venue

Online