by Kerry Lippold Jr.
Imagine an event with free food, enlightening experiences and people looking to make a difference in the world. It seems like the ideal place for a college student to be. What once started as a movie-viewing has now flourished into what is known as Parkland’s Race Talks. These discussions have been going on for nearly three years and the coordinators as well as the participators of the event strive to provide students with a diverse understanding of issues or concerns within our society. If you missed the first Race Talk of the semester, there will be more later in the semester.
Dr. Marsh Jones, coordinator and advertiser for the event, was in contact with the Prospectus and was excited to share information on Race Talks with as many students as possible. As mentioned before, Race Talks began with the viewing of a film called Racial Taboo. This highly recommended film highlights race issues in current history. It was the intention of this film to raise awareness for issues related to race and provide students with a platform for an otherwise difficult conversation. The discussion that followed the viewing of the film led to a regular gathering to discuss the importance of acceptance and diversity. Race Talks have been happening ever since.
“Race Talks provide eye-opening insights to students. We all come from unique ethnic and cultural backgrounds”
Parkland Counselor, director of the Black Student Success Project, and discussion facilitator, Donna Tanner-Harold, is tasked with the duty of conducting these events in a professional manner. Jones stated that she, “…provides excellent guidance and focus for our discussions.” This can be especially difficult with a group of sometimes nearly 40 people, a number they hope to increase
With great supporters such as the Black Student Success Project, Social Justice Club, Club Latino, the Parkland College Student Education Association, and others, participant numbers have a significant potential to grow. Honors students also can experience all these events have to offer but may also earn an honors credit by attending two of the Race Talks.
When asked why more people should attend these events, Jones responded that, “Race Talks provide eye-opening insights to students. We all come from unique ethnic and cultural backgrounds. Race Talks help us understand the challenges that others face. Many are not aware of the discrimination that occurs in our society. It is a good opportunity to learn about micro-aggressions that they may subconsciously commit. It helps all of us learn to respect each individual and understand their perspective.”
Additionally, he added insight as to what students should expect from Race Talks. “Students should expect an opportunity to share their thoughts and concerns openly and respectfully as well as an opportunity to learn what it is like to be faced with prejudice because of your appearance or ethnicity.”
If you happened to miss the first Race Talks of the semester, you still have two more chances this semester. Jones encourages both students and faculty to attend at least one talk. These events are intended for anyone to attend. All Race Talks are from 12-1 p.m. The only two for the rest of the semester are on Wednesday, Oct. 16 in the Parkland Cafeteria. The first 50 in attendance to this talk will receive free lunch. The other talk will be on Thursday, Nov. 21 in U-140 where free pizza will be provided.
If you happen to have any question, concerns or comments regarding the Race Talks, Jones, the Parkland Scholars and Honors Program Director hopes that you will contact him at mjones@parkland.edu. Please join us in making a difference and creating a better environment for everyone here at Parkland.
