Conversations on Equity and Antiracism

Racism and inequity are built into the framework of our daily lives, from where we live to the education and opportunities available to us. Working to recognize and understand these inequalities is important, but it's not enough. How can we go beyond passive understanding to actively combat racism and its effects within our communities?

Penn Arts & Sciences has launched a new series, Conversations on Equity & Antiracism, to help answer that question. “We need to continue the conversation, promote ways to fight inequity and advocate for change,” says Chrissy Bowdren, Associate Director for Alumni Engagement and Inclusion. “We have incredible alumni, experts in equity and inclusion, who are willing to share their knowledge and skillsets to engage our community.”

The series offers an opportunity for alumni to continue to learn about antiracism, battling the barriers to equity, and actionable steps to advocate for inclusion and belonging in their personal and professional lives.

More than 100 people joined us for the first event, “Taking Action and Fighting for Racial Equity,” held virtually on November 2 as part of Penn’s Homecoming 2021. Moderated by Iván Espinoza-Madrigal, C’01, Executive Director of the Lawyers for Civil Rights, panelists talked about their own experience and concrete next steps. Topics included intersectionality and individual experience, the importance of going behind diverse hiring to address inclusion and belonging, how to use a platform of privilege, and advice for current Penn students. They also answered questions from the audience.

The featured speakers were:

• Victor Scotti, C’13, Program Manager of Global Emerging Talent at Netflix
• Shakirah Simley, C’07, Executive Director of the Booker T. Washington Community Service Center
• Jessica Tollette, C’08, Senior Specialist for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Innovations for Poverty Action

You can watch the event here:

Conversations on Equity & Antiracism will hold at least two more events this academic year, focusing on topics like anti-Asian violence, gender inequality, and a deeper dive into privilege and oppression, says Bowdren. “Fighting injustice and becoming antiracist is a lifelong journey and we are committed to providing opportunities to further the conversation,” she says.