Foundations: Race and Racism in the U.S.

Students will investigate the multi-faceted concepts of identity, racism, and the dynamics of power, privilege, and oppression in the United States.

Open to Degree and PACE students

In this course we will critically examine the history of Racism at the University of Vermont, the City of Burlington, the State of Vermont and in the United States of America. Students will gain an understanding of how race intersects with other forms of discrimination (e.g. sexism, sexual orientation, ageism and other social identities). Students will gain an understanding of how power and privilege plays into the maintenance and delivery of Racism. The course will help students understand conversations and issues relevant to Race and racism in the United States. Finally, students will hear virtually from some of the leading scholars on the topic: Angela Davis, Tim Wise, Jane Eliott and Ibram X Kendi and Dolores Huerta and Anita Hill.

Students are expected to attend classes prepared to discuss the handouts, video reviews and to add their own thoughts/ideas to the discussions.

Students will be evaluated on, attendance & participation, reaction papers, class quiz & final examination.