What and Why You Should Know about Ethnic Studies

***REGISTRATION IS LIMITED TO ALF SENIOR FELLOWS AND FELLOWS.***

Join ALF Sr. Fellows and Fellows and experts in the field to:

• Learn about ethnic studies and critical race theory – the benefits and critiques – to be better informed and active “citizens” of an inclusive democracy
• Practice dialogue across differences to be able to engage productively with others beyond ALF and contribute to meaningful ethnic studies in your local schools and communities

Featured speakers:
Rick Banks (Class XXXIX) Jackson Eli Reynolds Professor of Law, Faculty Director of Stanford Center for Racial Justice , Stanford University
Dr. Mary Ann Dewan (Class XXXIX), Superintendent, Santa Clara County Office of Education
Camille Llanes-Fontanilla (Class XXXVIII) Executive Director, Somos Mayfair
Dr. Marcos Pizarro, Associate Dean, College of Education, Professor, Chicanx Studies, San Jose State University

Background: In March 2021, the CA Department of Education adopted an Ethnic Studies Model Curriculum for high schools for voluntary adoption by school districts. People in communities across the region and country have spoken out in support and opposition in school board meetings and the news media. Ethnic studies has become a lightning rod in an environment of political polarization and racial reckoning. Arizona banned ethnic studies and, more recently, other states are banning the teaching of critical race theory.

While there is a long history of ethnic studies at the college level, the current debate raises questions about K-12 education:

• Why have students not been taught more complete history before? What do California students learn now?
• What are the impacts of learning about structural or systemic racism on young students?
• How will teachers be trained and equipped to teach these issues?
• How does ethnic studies education impact our broader communities and democracy?