WINTER 2023 ISSUE
TSJQ
THE SOCIAL JUSTICE QUARTERLY
THE CULTURE ISSUE RACE
CULTURE ETHNICITY
NAACP CHAPTER LAUNCH!
“TO BE BLACK, FEMALE & FIRST” A PUBLICATION OF SOCIAL JUSTICE EDUCATION AT INDIANA UNIVERSITY- INDIANAPOLIS
The Social Justice Quarterly
Winter 2023 | Issue 2
In This Issue Message from the Assistant Director Letter from the Editor Ms. Chloe’s Corner What’s On Our Shelf: “The Sum of Us” Book Review Scholar Spotlight: Above and Beyond the Call of Duty- Carmen Cundiff To Be Black, Female, and First Justice Juice? Highlights from a Participant SJS Program Recap
Social Justice Education at IUI The mission of Social Justice Education (SJEd) programming is to create open, respectful, and safe learning environments for the IUPUI community to explore and understand concepts of social justice in an effort to create a more equitable campus, city, and world. At the heart of the SJEd work is studentled programming intended to enhance scholar’s ability to convene peer to peer programming, develop and practice critical thinking skills, and ultimately become responsible civically engaged and globally aware leaders. The Social Justice Scholars Program is open to all IUPUI students. To learn more about the program visit bit.ly/BeAJusticeScholar or to apply please contact Precious Majors @ pmajors@iu.edu.
A Message from the Assistant Director of Social Justice Education Exploring the Intersections of Social Justice and Culture! As the Assistant Director of a Social Justice Education Program and lover of culture, I have had the privilege of witnessing and studying the profound impact of culture on social justice issues. Culture, encompassing everything from art and literature to media and traditions, such plays a pivotal role in shaping perceptions, attitudes, and the treatment of diverse groups within society. So much so, there is a direct connection between climatic historical movements and culture (i.e. Woodstock era and activism of war, Curtis Mayfield singing about love in the plight of African-American’s experience of racism). It is within these context(s) that we must critically engage with cultural elements to understand their influence and response(s) on systemic inequalities and injustices. In this edition of the Social Justice Quarterly we invite viewers, supports, and collaborators to explore the intersections of social justice and culture!
By shedding light on the intricate relationship between social justice and culture, we hope to spark among viewers, meaningful conversations and inspire readers to critically evaluate the cultural content they consume and create. It is my firm belief that by examining cultural representations through a social justice lens, we can empower individuals to become more conscious consumers and creators of culture, ultimately contributing to a more just and equitable society. Explore! Explore the Arts, explore the ways in which cultural norms, traditions, and popular media can either reinforce or challenge societal inequalities. Critically examine from literature, film, music, and art, how culturally illustrated expressions can perpetuate or subvert social hierarchies and prejudices. Furthermore, observe and engage the stories of individuals and communities who are leveraging culture as a platform to advocate for social justice and foster inclusivity. Explore! Explore the intersections of social justice and culture! Thank you for your support of the Social Justice Quarterly, as always, we invite you to learn and engage in the transformative work of social justice! Be Phenomenal, Precious J. Majors
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR WHEN WORLDS APART COLLIDE: THE CULTURE ISSUE The past few months have been full of cultural moments that have stretched and challenged our Social Justice Scholars and those who attend Social Justice Education programming at IU-Indianapolis. From navigating the tenuous waters of student, staff, and faculty angst with administration for comments made on current events that rang close to home, to witnessing the world fail to sufficiently respond in global humanitarian issues, we have all been presented with opportunities for growth. Matters of culture frequently have the propensity to position us in precarious situations where we have to take a stand. Whether we have to uncomfortably confront others’ embedded beliefs about our own cultural identities, or worse, find ourselves at the receiving end of callous intended or accidental blunders related to our sense of self, when it comes to culture, sometimes worlds collide. This issue features stories that range from first-person experiences with bias, presumptions of incompetency, and one student’s testimony of being counter-cultural. There is another story that highlights the journey of students establishing a local chapter of a centuries old organization that has become a cultural institution of importance. As always, readers will have an opportunity to take a glimpse at what scholars are reading and how the programming is being engaged throughout campus. Whether you are a TSJQ subscriber or you simply stumbled upon our early stage publication, it is our hope that you find something within these pages that inspires you to be a change agent wherever you may be found. Thanks for reading!
Rev. Shonda Nicole Gladden JOIN ME AT 4PM ON THE LAST MONDAY OF THE MONTH FOR JUSTICE JUICE SOCIAL
Ms. Chloe’s Corner Chloe Edwards, Social Justice Ed. Graduate Assistant
May 2024 will mark 70 years since the Supreme Court Decision that declared the “separate, but equal,” doctrine in public schools unconstitutional under the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment. Board of Education of Topeka, 347 U.S. 483 (1954). Shortly after Brown v. Board, a six-year old named Ruby Bridges and six others put the decision to the ultimate test. The students attempted to attend an all white public education institute in New Orleans, Louisiana. Bridges and the others were still required to take a test for admittance. Upon the success of the exam, five of the students were permitted to attend the school. However, only four accepted. When Bridges began to attend her new school she was escorted by four United States Marshals. As she marched through riots and angry protestors that did not approve of her arrival, Bridges demonstrated her commitment to changing the access to education for Black students. Despite the negative outpour, Bridges continued to press on and sparked a change that would ultimately live on forever.
(continued on next page)
“Don’t follow the path. Go where there is no path and begin the trail .” — Ruby Bridges CONNECT WITH MS. CHLOE VIA LINKEDIN: WWW.LINKEDIN.COM/IN/CHLOE-EDWARDS7
AP Photo/File
(continued from previous page) As a young Black woman, Bridges demonstrated that although a right may be available, it may not always be accessible. However, at the young age of six-years-old, Bridges understood the importance of initiating change through her persistence and courageous acts. Bridges may not have known the impact she would leave on the education system, but she continued to establish principles that would create access for generations to follow. She faced challenges, yet her ability to persevere exceeded the expectations set before her. During this time, young Black women were identified as unintelligent and incapable. On the contrary, Bridges and others were determined to change the narrative through social justice actions and advocacy. Although the systemic principles Bridges identified still remain intact today, Social Justice Scholars are eager and equipped to continue the fight. Social Justice Scholars at Indiana University - Indianapolis are constantly creating and curating spaces across campus to acknowledge how influential intersectionalities are in the fight for justice. They repeatedly face challenges to educate and navigate these spaces, but embrace them with grace and humility. Similarly to Bridges, these challenges have driven them to even greater conversations and change! The Social Justice Scholars recognize that these systemic issues still remain, so they continue to navigate these spaces to provide open dialogue for students to share their knowledge and experience. The tireless work is needed to break down these barriers and to identify additional systemic issues. Bridges helped initiate the change in the education system through her boldness and tenacity, and now it’s time for our Social Justice Scholars to ensure the fight for change continues to progress! It is without a doubt that our scholars will persist. They embody Bridges’ dedication and courage to be agents for change to impact the many generations to come!
Ms. Chloe’s Corner
SCHOLAR SPOTLIGHT A B O V E & B E Y O N D C A R M E N C U N D I F F As Carmen continues to lead as a Social Justice Scholar, her potential will shine in areas outside of the classroom. Aside from being a Scholar, Carmen is a member of Gamma Phi Omega, and Student Support Specialist for DEAP, and a dedicated volunteer. In fact, she recently volunteered at the National FFA Convention. Following the convention she even wrote an article describing her dedication to assist and serve others. Her commitment to service extends to many communities and is exemplified in various settings! I am excited to see how she will continue to impact others!
Carmen is an outstanding scholar! From always being early to Friday Seminar to being willing to help wherever in any capacity! Further, during Seminar, Carmen contributes great thoughts by sharing her experiences.
TSJQ, Issue 2
Winter 2023
TO BE BLACK, FEMALE, AND FIRST
Being a first generation Black woman at Indiana UniversityIndianapolis has come with both its challenges and its lessons. The journey has been one filled with obstacles, but it has also been a source of strength and resilience. As I stepped onto the college campus for the first time, I couldn't help but feel a mixture of excitement and apprehension. I knew that I was embarking on a path that few in my family had taken before me, and that came with an immense sense of responsibility. As a current first generation college student, I was not only the first person in my family to go to college, I was the first woman in my family to go to college. In my family, the role of women has been mostly to be the caretakers and nurtures of the men around them. This had an immense impact on the women in my family’s emotional and physical health, such as my mother. My mother had her first child, my eldest brother, when she was 15.
by Lakyah Berry
AS I STEPPED ONTO THE COLLEGE CAMPUS FOR THE FIRST TIME, I COULDN’T HELP BUT FEEL A MIXTURE OF EXCITEMENT AND APPREHENSION... From the age of 15, my mother would spend the rest of her life taking care of me, my three older brothers, and my older sister, all while juggling the rest of life’s responsibilities. Sending me, her youngest seed, off to college meant the world to her. Both of us believed that my pursuit of education was a generational win. Continued on next page
TSJQ ISSUE 2
Black, Female and First (cont’d)
WINTER 2023
PHOTO PROVIDED BY AUTHOR TO ACCOMPANY ARTICLE (IMAGE IS A YOUNG BLACK WOMAN SITTING AT A COMPUTER IN A LIBRARY. THERE IS A BLACK MALE STUDENT IN THE BACKGROUND)
For female African American students, it can feel like your pursuit of education is your entire family’s ticket out of the suffocating grip of poverty, racism, and patriarchal views of what a woman’s place in the world is. The weight of this responsibility can be overwhelming, but it also serves as a powerful motivator to overcome the obstacles that will inevitably come your way. As an African American student, I was also acutely aware of the systemic barriers and racial inequalities that exist within the education system. These disparities can make the journey towards higher education all the more challenging. Growing up in a household where higher education was not the norm, I witnessed the struggles and limitations that poverty imposes on individuals and families. Witnessing these hardships firsthand ignited a burning desire within me to break the cycle and create a better future for myself and my loved ones.
Every late night study session, every sacrificed social event, and every moment of doubt is overshadowed by the belief that through education, I can hopefully transcend the limitations that poverty has imposed on my family for generations. The support and encouragement from my community became vital pillars of strength as I continue to navigate the complexities of being first, Black, and female.
“...The weight of this responsibility can be overwhelming, but it also serves as a powerful motivator to overcome the obstacles that will inevitably come your way”
I am proud to be a trailblazer, paving the way for future generations of women in my family to realize their full potential
Lakyah Berry First Year Student, IU-Indianapolis
TSJQ
ISSUE 2
WINTER 2023
ON THE SHELF BOOK REVIEW THE SUM OF US: WHAT RACISM COSTS EVERYONE AND HOW WE CAN PROSPER TOGETHER In every issue of TSJQ, students review at least one new book they’re reading. We believe that an important part of social justice development is reading from a diverse collection of books!
Heather McGhee's book, 'The Sum of Us: What Racism Costs Everyone and How We Can Prosper Together,' explores the impact of racism on society and offers a compelling argument for a more inclusive and equitable future. The book delves into the historical roots of racial divisions and demonstrates how racism has not only harmed marginalized communities but has also had broader economic and social consequences for everyone. McGhee draws on real-world examples and personal narratives to illustrate how policies and practices that discriminate against certain groups ultimately hinder the collective progress of society as a whole.
One of the central ideas in 'The Sum of Us' is the 'solidarity dividend,' the concept that a more inclusive and fair society benefits everyone. McGhee advocates for policies that address systemic racism and promote economic and social justice, emphasizing that dismantling racial barriers leads to shared prosperity. By highlighting the ways racism divides and diminishes opportunities for everyone, McGhee encourages readers to envision a future where equity and unity create a more thriving and harmonious society.
Please note that this is a general overview and does not capture the full depth and nuance of Heather McGhee's work in "The Sum of Us." For a comprehensive understanding, it's recommended to read the book directly. Keaun and other scholars will be leading a community book study of this book next February and March. For more details email sojoedu@iu.edu.
Keaun Brown
Social Justice Scholars
Program Recap Throughout the fall semester, Real Talk has hosted six thought-provoking events, covering various topics, from critical discussions on Global Human Rights Violations to Confronting Mental Health Stigma. These events captivated the attention of a substantial student audience, fostering vibrant discussions that spurred intellectual curiosity among participants.
TSJQ, Issue 2, Winter 2023
Each event has been a powerful catalyst for encouraging insightful conversations, enabling a platform where diverse perspectives are exchanged openly. These events not only heightened students' awareness regarding privilege, power, and oppression, but also fostered an inclusive environment that encourages an open dialogue, nurturing the intellectual growth and personal development of all involved. Real Talk's initiatives have played a pivotal role in cultivating a more equitable and inclusive community here at IU Indianapolis.
Real Talk
Tunnel of Oppression Event Recap
Unveiling the Unseen: A Journey through the "Tunnel of Oppression" at IU Indianapolis By Camille Hedd
During the week of November 14-16, 2023, the Social Justice Scholars and the Sapphire Theatre company transformed IUPUI meeting spaces into a compelling presentation called “Tunnel of Oppression”. The "Tunnel of Oppression," is an educational and immersive experience aimed at engaging the campus community in crucial social justice discussions. The transformative show tackled social justice topics often overlooked, fostering awareness while encouraging dialogue. The variety of topics explored, showcased the organizers' commitment to addressing diverse and challenging subjects. The Preparation: The creation of Tunnel of Oppression began at the start of 2023, with second year Social Justice Scholars brainstorming scene ideas and selecting topics for the show.
TSJQ, Issue 2, Winter 2023
The chosen and presented topics were Female Genital Mutilation, The Immigrant Health Paradox, Censorship of African American history, and Lack of Access to Dental Care in Black and Brown Communities. During the year, scholars cooperated with the Sapphire Theatre Company to produce emotive, but educational scenes and videos that would provoke and inspire the audience to understand and engage with the topics as well as social justice discussions. One of the standout features of the "Tunnel of Oppression" was its immersive design, which allowed participants to experience firsthand the realities of various social justice issues. The use of multimedia presentations, interactive exhibits, and actors demonstrating real life narratives provided a powerful and emotional journey detailing the realities of oppression. This effectively conveyed the urgency of understanding and addressing these issues as shown through an audience participation debrief. Attendees reported being entertained by the show, but were also provoked and educated.
Article continues on next page.
TSJQ
ISSUE 2
WINTER 2023
Unveiling the Unseen: A Journey through the "Tunnel of Oppression" at IU Indianapolis, cont’d
As the echoes of the "Tunnel of Oppression" linger, it is hoped that the conversations sparked will continue to ripple through the campus community, inspiring ongoing efforts to engage in social justice. We hope you will accept our invitation to continue the conversation at our second signature event, next year’s Social Justice Symposium , March 7-8, 2024. Camille Hedd, 2nd Year Scholar
Hash It Out is a bi-weekly podcast that brings people of opposing viewpoints to discuss Social Justice Issues. This semester, the hosts, Havva, Tapiwa and Awwal, have hashed out the topics of the Patriarchy and the Separation of Church and State. Each host brings forth a lens from their culture, upbringing and lived experience that makes the perspectives shared on each topic fresh and enlightening. As Social Justice Scholars, the content produced by these hosts are rooted in scholarly research. Each topic is addressed with a sense of journalistic integrity and responsibility.
Do you want to keep up to date with when our episodes drop? Subscribe to us on SoundCloud, Apple Music and Spotify. Don’t forget to leave a review! We can’t wait until we to return in January and hash it out!
The Social Justice Symposium is a free day-long conference for the Indianapolis community, IUIndianapolis students, staff, and faculty to cocurate knowledge sharing around social justice issues through workshops, speakers, and discussions. This event focuses on student-led, community-centric, knowledge sharing.
Apply to Present
Register to Attend
2024 Theme and Proposal Submission Information: Social Justice in Action: Interrogating the Landscape and Igniting Passion This year’s theme is inspired by the United Nations 2024 Summit of the Future theme, “Multilateral Solutions for a Better Tomorrow.” This year’s Symposium invites participants and workshop presenters to consider the question, “What does social justice in action look like?” Throughout the day-long conference, we will engage in conversations, knowledge sharing, and strategies that explore this question through the sub-themes of environment, art, culture, and health. These subthemes are intended to provide participants with opportunities to develop practical solutions that inspire us to believe “each” one of us can be part of social justice in action.
TSJQ ISSUE 2
NAACP Returns to IUPUI with a Passion for Equality
WINTER 2023
PHOTO PROVIDED BY AUTHOR TO ACCOMPANY ARTICLE OFFICERS OF NEW NAACP CHAPTER FOLLOWING FIRST CALL OUT MEETING
This fall, a significant event unfolded at IUPUI that stirred the spirit of equality and justice. The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) was officially chartered at IUPUI, thanks to the determined efforts of Prisca Giddi, a passionate junior at the university. With a revived mission, this chapter is committed to ensuring political and educational equality for minority citizens, aiming to eradicate race prejudice through democratic processes.
The renewed mission at IUPUI is crystal clear: the NAACP is determined to dismantle barriers of racial discrimination and secure the rights of all citizens. By rekindling the chapter, Giddi and her fellow advocates are paving the way for the NAACP to address contemporary issues and continue its legacy of promoting equality.
“ ...the NAACP is determined to dismantle barriers of racial discrimination and secure the rights of all citizens.”
The IUPUI chapter's commitment goes beyond rhetoric; it actively seeks to eliminate race prejudice by engaging in advocacy, The team’s dedication has injected education, and community outreach. Through these initiatives, new life into the NAACP at IUPUI. the NAACP aims to empower This historic organization, known for its advocacy in the fight against individuals, raise awareness, and racial injustice, is now ready to create a more inclusive tackle the modern challenges faced environment within the university by minority communities. and the larger community. Kamya Williams First Year Social Justice Scholar
JUSTICE JUICE SOCIAL
ONE STUDENT’S PERSPECTIVE ON A NEW SJED PROGRAM OFFERING By London Okowo
Justice Juice Social is a community committed to fostering open and challenging conversations while maintaining a safe space for diverse opinions. As a participant, I have gained insights into various systems of oppression, understanding the underlying policies and their broad societal impact. In our recent discussion on the education system during November's Juice Social, we were able to recognize multiple oppressive systems at play, such as the school-to-prison pipeline. What keeps drawing me back to Justice Juice Social is the infectious enthusiasm exhibited by both my peers and Dr. Gladden. Stepping into the room, instead of being bombarded with alarming statistics, there is a warm welcome that immediately makes you feel a part of the space. The atmosphere was a crucial factor in my decision to continue participating. The ambiance of the room reminded me of the warmth of a family gathering, a testament to Dr. Gladden's leadership in creating an inclusive environment. What
ABOUT JUSTICE JUICE SOCIAL In traditional hip hop culture, if one is said to “have the juice,” it is an observation of their ability to, with confidence and authority, handle one’s business. The term “juice” is used to refer to energy characterized by respect, power, or influence. Building on this colloquial understanding, The Justice Juice Social holds space for expansive, immersive, dialogue and reflection on social justice issues, hosted by the IUPUI Social Justice Education Specialist. All are invited to cocurate the space at 4pm on the last Monday of the month. Various juice beverages are also provided.
sets Justice Juice Social apart is its potential to attract more attendees by tapping into the historical significance of student-led movements. Many transformative revolutions have been sparked by students engaging in dialogues and sharing ideologies. Justice Juice Social provides students with an opportunity to be a part of something larger than themselves, fostering a sense of community and empowerment.
SOCIAL JUSTICE SYMPOSIUM WEEK 2024
Social Justice in Action: Interrogating the Landscape and Igniting Passion CULTURAL CONNECTIONS BANQUET TUESDAY MARCH 5TH, 4PM
With generous support from a Jag Action Grant received by First Year Social Justice Scholar and creative curator, Keaun Brown, this event is a celebration of culture. Through discourse, ample samplings of food from around the world, dance, poetry, art, along with card games and conversations, this event is sure to be an opportunity to strengthen alliances, identify allies, and be an inspiring kick-off to a week of social justice in action!
PRE-SYMPOSIUM RECEPTION THURSDAY MARCH 7TH, 5:6:30PM
Showcasing local creatives whose performances are reflective of their commitment to the transformative power of the arts, this reception will hold space for audience members to witness artists and practitioners engaging in reflective conversation, while enjoying small bites in a relaxed atmosphere. Coordinated by First Year Social Justice Scholar and Community Engagement Associate, Camryn Bembry, this event will feature “The State of Social Justice in Action: From Indiana Avenue to the World.”
SOCIAL JUSTICE SYMPOSIUM Since its inception in 2016, this day-long conference is an opportunity for the Indianapolis community, IU-Indianapolis students, staff, and faculty to co-curate knowledge sharing around social justice issues through workshops, speakers,, and discussions. This year’s Symposium invites participants and presenters to consider the question, What does social justice in action look like?” This is a FREE event that is open to all. While registrations will be accepted up until the day of the event, registration with lunch closes Friday February 26, 2024.
REGISTER TO ATTEND TODAY! BIT.LY/IUI-SOCIAL-JUSTICE-SYMPOSIUM-2024
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The Social Justice Quarterly Three print issues annually Insider access to IUI Social Justice Education news & events
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