Perspective: Why Are We at the Intersection of Race and Oppression?
by: Dr. Dante Bryant, assistant professor, School of Social Work
As a professor and social activist, I have spent the greater portion of my adult life researching, organizing and responding to various forms of institutionalized racial inequality and social oppression. Still, while I deeply believe in the work that I do, at times it is difficult, challenging and when I feel overwhelmed, I am often unsure of where to begin.
So, in times like this, I recognize that it is easy and sometimes preferable to be confused; to intentionally or unintentionally channel one’s anger toward a black man kneeling during the national anthem rather than take the time to understand why he chose to do so; or, to publicly lament the loss of property with greater intensity than we lament the loss of life. In times like this, I have found it beneficial to step back and remember why we are here.