Conversation on Race

Come out an participate in an engaging conversation - a personal  discussion about the issues facing those in inter-racial relationships or with bi-racial children. 

Why is bias a problem against interracial couples in 2008?  How do couples manage against this bias?  These are real questions for real couples.

For more information, contact Cory Anderson or the Student Activities Office or call 313.593.5390.

Registration is not required, but is encouraged.

A Conversation on Race: Voices of a New Generation is an ongoing series set up to promote open, honest discussion about racial issues from past to present.  There are two programs held each semester featuring a guest speaker or presentation followed by both large and small group discussion.

Started through collaboration between the University of Michigan-Dearborn and New Detroit these forums begin the process of conversations and actions for college students of many backgrounds racially, ethnically, religiously, etc.  The program was started because, though there has been progress in American society since the Civil Rights Movement, there is still much needed to be done

Every forum held is considered a “safe place,” a model set forth by New Detroit.  This means that every student, faculty, staff, and community member is able to ask questions and speak their mind about whatever topic is put forth without fear of rejection or repercussion.  It is an environment in which all participants learn from one another in an effort to break through racial barriers on a campus level in order to start changing things on a larger scale.

Students, faculty, staff, and community members are all invited to attend these free forums.

Mission

The University of Michigan – Dearborn Conversation on Race program is a participatory educational process that seeks to bring diverse members of our community together for the purpose of improving the community’s racial climate.  We seek to positively change the climate of the campus community and maximize the individual and community benefits by engaging in honest guided dialogues on race and racism in America.  We seek to explain our experiences with race and validate the experiences of others as we develop personal and institutional strategies to combat racism in all its forms.

Goals

• Honest dialogue
• Participatory education
• Bringing a diverse community together
• Develop strategies to combat racism

Past Topics and Speakers

• Kevin Powell
• Jane Elliott
• Dr. James Loewen
• The "N" Word, Divided We Stand
• Minorities in the Media

Resources and Links

• Conversation on Race CTools Online Discussion
• New Detroit
• Closing the Gap: Race in Metro Detroit
• Race: Are We So Different