Yale's Discussion Series on Racism in Faith Communities

Yale University is set to host an event titled "Unmasking Racism in Anti-Racism Education," organized by the Yale Youth Ministry Institute. The event will feature Rev. Dr. Jia Starr Brown, an African American queer pastor and activist, as the main speaker. Scheduled to take place over three weekly Zoom sessions from September 18 to October 2, the discussions aim to address the persistent issue of racism within youth ministries and the broader context of anti-racism efforts in the United States. The event's description highlights a critical examination of why racism continues to thrive despite widespread anti-racism initiatives. Participants will engage in a reflective journey to uncover the historical roots of racism embedded in current anti-racism frameworks. The first week will focus on identifying how these frameworks perpetuate racism, while the second week will delve into educational strategies that combat racism, particularly in faith-based environments. Attendance is free for individuals aged 18 and older, provided they register in advance. The initiative comes at a time when some Yale faculty members are advocating for a return to the university's core educational mission, as opposed to a focus on activism. In December, over 100 staff members formed "Faculty for Yale," emphasizing the importance of preserving and transmitting knowledge amidst challenges to the institution's values. The ongoing dialogue at Yale reflects a broader national conversation about the role of education in addressing systemic racism and the responsibilities of academic institutions in fostering social justice.