As communities continue to reflect the country's increasingly diverse population, what media representations challenge and support discrimination in our communities, schools and institutions? How can we generate a framework for actions that reject inaccurate representations of human difference, value diverse forms of knowledge and question institutional inequalities? In this program, we will pursue answers to these questions by examining identity, educational history, cultural studies and the media in order to design strategies to support a more equitable school system and to create diverse forms of media expression.

We will begin by analyzing a working definition of racism and sexism that frames intentional, as well as unintentional, normalized acts of inequality over time. We will challenge depictions in literature and the media that promote the stereotyping of diverse groups. Through an analysis of anti-racist and anti-sexist case study research and the media, we will also explore the lived experiences of diverse populations whose identities are often impacted by assumptions and disparities found in communities and school settings based upon the social construction of race and gender and the stereotyping of immigrant students. In order to break down such assumptions, students will engage in community service, writing and media analysis over the course of the program. In the fall, community service will take the form of student engagement in student groups at Evergreen, followed by collaborations with community-based organizations in winter.

In addition, we will investigate specific everyday actions that media artists, activists and educators generate to confront these inequalities. By incorporating media and writing workshops, qualitative research methods such as interviews and participant observation, we will collect various sources of data and present our work which documents how specific counter-narratives can be created that affirm and support diverse learners to achieve within their schools and communities. Writing workshops will help students develop skills in critical analysis and media analysis, while media workshops (which may include photography, digital video and/or new media) will helps students develop skills in visual literacy and visual expression. 

Lastly, we will demonstrate our understanding of everyday anti-racist/anti-sexist practices by creating presentations that merge theory, community service and writing. Possible themes that may emerge through our own study may include examining the community and students' funds of knowledge, the use alternative media outlets and the arts as tools of empowerment which specifically recognize our collective cultural hybridity. This program will provide background knowledge and skill development for students interested in careers in teaching, media production, cultural studies and community service.