Anti-Racism and Social Justice

This one-semester course provides an introduction to the ways racism has contributed to American society, how and why it persists, and how anti-racism can empower each of us to take steps to end racism in ourselves, in our school, in our communities, and in our country. We examine how racism affects all of us in a multitude of ways, and we consider how anti-racism can create a more welcoming, positive, and supportive environment for all. The experience includes the development of a project that promotes anti-racism at Thayer. This course is required for freshmen.

This one-semester course helps students develop a strong vision of the “common good,” including ideals such as equality, opportunity, environmental sustainability, and social justice. It also introduces students to challenges we face as a school, a community, a region, a nation, and a world in achieving those ideals. During the course, we identify and examine problems, acknowledge those who promote solutions, and engage in problem-solving activities in our school and our communities. Students consider the many ways Thayer contributes to the “common good” and develop ways Thayer can do more and do better. The course concludes with a service-learning project with a focus on ethical leadership and community engagement. This course is required for sophomores.

This one-semester elective course builds upon some of the lessons introduced in Anti-Racism and The Common Good. We examine in more detail concepts of identity and consider how we create our own identities and how we relate to others in the world. With readings, videos, and other resources, we engage in discussions that consider how various identities intersect in particular ways with a range of social issues, including access to education and health care, the workplace, the justice system, and the environment; the meaning of community service is also discussed. Throughout, we focus on assessing complicated intersectional problems and considering innovative, collaborative, multi-disciplinary solutions. This graded course meets four times a week for one semester. Qualifies for Global Scholars.