S9A Empowering Students to Engage in Critical Discussion Regarding Antiracism

Presenters

Amanda Hill, Social Work

Abstract

During the fall 2021 semester, a class of freshman social work students engaged in weekly class discussions of the Kendi & Reynolds book "Stamped: Racism, Antiracism, and You." Each week a different student took the role of discussion leader and developed thought-provoking questions to engage in critical dialogue regarding racism, white supremacy, the oppression and marginalization of certain people groups, racial justice, privilege, and advocacy. Students not only learned valuable information about these topics, but gained confidence in their ability to act as leaders who have the capacity to engage others in difficult conversations with empathy, understanding, and critical thinking. During this presentation, the assignment structure as well as lessons learned will be reviewed. A discussion of the informal feedback provided by the students regarding their experiences will also be provided.

Session Recording