Civil rights icon Dr. Angela Davis will join Oxnard College virtually for a conversation about social justice issues from 5:30 p.m.-7 p.m., May 12. The event, titled “Empowering the Next Generation: A Conversation with Angela Davis,” is hosted by Oxnard College’s Associated Student Government. Students and community members are invited to attend this free event with the world-renowned political activist, educator, writer and professor.
“Our student government is honored to welcome Angela Davis to Oxnard College,” shared Lorena Ortiz, president of the college’s Associated Student Government. “We are all the beneficiaries of Dr. Davis’ long fight for social justice, and we join in her efforts to build a fairer and more inclusive America.”
Davis has penned numerous books, including “If They Come in the Morning: Voices of Resistance” (1971); “Women, Race, & Class” (1981); and her latest book, “Herbert Marcuse, Philosopher of Utopia: A Graphic Biography” (2019). Her work as an activist began as a member of a church’s youth group in her native Birmingham, Ala., where she participated in demonstrations that included picketing against racial segregation. This formative experience marked the beginning of a long career, which has included teaching at universities worldwide, speaking out against police brutality and the prison-industrial complex, and serving as a third-party vice-presidential nominee in the 1980s. A biopic of her life is set to be directed by filmmaker Julie Dash.
“Having Oxnard College students connect with Dr. Davis, who is a luminary in the field of social justice, is pivotal to their educational journey,” said Chancellor Greg Gillespie. “This event will showcase our priorities of diversity, equity and inclusion for all students and the community as a whole.”
“This student-led event provides a powerful opportunity for our students to examine how change occurs in our society,” added Gabriela Rodríguez, a grant director at Oxnard College, who works closely with student development. “Dr. Davis’ visit comes at a pivotal moment in our nation’s history, one that includes an especially contentious presidential election, the rise of the Black Lives Matter movement, and social justice issues that have been exacerbated by the global pandemic.”
The event is a collaboration between various Oxnard College groups, including Associated Student Government, Inter-Organizational Council, Professional Development Committee, Academic Senate and the Oxnard College Foundation.
Davis’ discussion is open to the public and all Ventura County Community College District students and employees. There is no charge to attend. Attendees may register for the Zoom event at bit.ly/oc-angela-davis.
Photo provided by American Program Bureau.