Massasoit Offering Free, Two-Week Course on Racism & Resistance

July 7, 2020 – In response to events unfolding across the country and as part of an ongoing commitment to fostering an inclusive community, Massasoit launched a new interdisciplinary course this summer. Racism & Resistance helps learners unpack race relations in American society and is offered online for free. Both current students and members of the community were welcome to enroll.

The murders of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery, and countless others have triggered a national protest movement centered around racism, policing and the criminal justice system, resistance movements, and political power. Racism & Resistance delves into these subjects through the academic fields of history, human services, literature and the arts, sociology, and criminology.

“Massasoit is committed to put into action racial equity projects and social justice work that meets the needs of our students, employees, and community members, and which provide a welcome and safe learning environment for our campus community,” said Yolanda Dennis, chief diversity officer at Massasoit.

Special focus in the course, which has no prerequisites, is given to the evolution of racism, its influence in policing and its broader current impacts, responses to racism through art and activism, and the concept of implicit bias.

“It is critical that our students gain a more complete education in diversity and equity issues, and an expansive multicultural awareness, in order to contribute to productive social justice efforts within the greater Massasoit community,” said Dennis.

Those who enrolled in Racism & Resistance could either earn one college credit or choose to receive no credit. Students can expect assigned readings, videos, and to participate in discussions.

Racism & Resistance is running from July 13 – 26; the course is full, but check Massasoit.edu for updates on future sessions.