'Beyond Ferguson: Campus Town Hall' Fosters Critical Dialogue

Hundreds of members of the University community gathered at the Stamp Student Union on Thursday, Sept. 11 to listen to expert discussion and make their voices heard about a critical national dialogue. “Beyond Ferguson: Campus Town Hall” was presented by the African American Studies Department, MLAW Programs and the Iota Zeta Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity. Moderator Dr. Odis Johnson and distinguished panelists discussed the tragic shooting of Michael Brown, an unarmed teen in the St. Louis suburb of Ferguson, and the national and international reactions that have followed. These reactions, the event organizers said, “have awakened the nation from the dream of a post-racial America”.

Panelists included Dr. Mia Smith Bynum (School of Public Health), Dr. Robert Koulish (MLAW Programs), Dr. Joseph Richardson (African American Studies Department), and Dr. Larry Sherman (Criminology and Criminal Justice).

“We had a terrific turnout, and the topic sparked a lively discussion between students and panel members. Hopefully, the discussion will not end with this one event and will continue,” Dr. Koulish said.

Read more about the event via an article in The Diamondback.

Dr. Johnson recently issued a statement on the topic, and his views have been featured in the media. To learn more about this event and future discussions on Ferguson and related topics, visit www.aasd.umd.edu.

Published on Mon, Sep 15, 2014 - 10:45AM