READ: It’s Not Free Speech: Race, Democracy, and the Future of Academic Freedom
For many universities, upholding ideals of academic freedom while also promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives can at times seem like trying to meet conflicting objectives. Authors Michael Bérubé and Jennifer Ruth argue that the recent racial justice movement and the influence of social media necessitate a reimagining of academic freedom practices and policies. By separating the concepts of academic freedom and free speech, Bérubé and Ruth believe it’s possible for colleges to create clear parameters that distinguish open inquiry from hateful rhetoric. Published by Johns Hopkins University Press
WATCH: The Beauty of Blackness
In 1973, Eunice Johnson, the creator of Jet and Ebony magazines, made history by launching Fashion Fair, the first cosmetics line designed exclusively for African American women. Although the brand developed a prestigious reputation and was even sold internationally, it eventually went into decline and was shuttered in 2019. Featuring interviews with beauty experts, makeup artists, models, and more, this documentary follows Fashion Fair’s rise, fall, and new revival under CEOs Cheryl Mayberry McKissack and Desirée Rogers, former White House Social Secretary for President Barack Obama. Streaming on HBO Max
LISTEN: Consider This: Parents of Transgender Youth Fear Texas’ New Anti-Trans Orders
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott (R) recently directed the state’s Department of Family and Child Services to investigate gender-affirming medical care as child abuse. Although the order was temporarily blocked, it has caused panic for many families and reflects a larger wave of anti-LGBTQ legislation gaining traction around the nation. In this episode of NPR’s podcast Consider This, host Ailsa Chang speaks with two parents who are raising transgender children in Texas and the emotional toll the order has taken on their families. Available on npr.org and all major podcast apps●
This article was published in our May 2022 issue.
