2020 - Black Lives Matter series explores why talking about racism can be so uncomfortable

Elgin Community College’s Multicultural and Global Initiatives Committee (MAGIC) presents Part V of the series, “Black Lives Matter,” on Thursday, November 5, at 2 pm. The discussion will take place via Zoom, and all are invited to attend. Join the Zoom meeting, and the session will be live-streamed on ECC’s Facebook Page.

“MAGIC invites the community to join the conversation as we explore reasons why talking about racism can be so uncomfortable and gain insights into why people are reluctant to speak up when they hear racist comments,” said Susan Timm, EdD, ECC professor of business and MAGIC co-chair.

Panelists include ECC Professor of Communications Eric Long; community leader Junaid Afeef, JD; Certified Listening Professional Marva Shand-McIntosh of the International Listening Association; ECC Wellness Professional Coresair Mack, and Naja May-Pearson, president of ECC’s Black Student Achievers (BSA). Local librarians will also be on hand to provide information and resources.

MAGIC co-chair and ECC Professor of Business Clark Hallpike added, “The goal is to help attendees acquire the tools to help them have a more constructive conversation about race and racism.”

Out of respect for the voices of those who will be sharing, MAGIC is asking participants to simply listen. Throughout the event, comments and questions can be made in the virtual chat room. At the end of the program, some of the questions from the chat will be answered. After that point, there will opportunities for those who would like to share their own experiences as well.

To bring you this critically important series, MAGIC is partnering with ECC Black Student Achievers (BSA), ECC Student Life, ECC Police Department, and the ECC Renner Academic Library, along with the Elgin Police Department and Gail Borden Public Library. The event is limited to 300 participants, however, the session will be recorded and made available to the public afterwards.

ECC’s Multicultural and Global Initiatives Committee aims to prepare individuals to succeed in a diverse society by providing and supporting multicultural learning experiences at Elgin Community College and within District 509 with the ultimate goal of creating an inclusive environment at the college.

For additional information, contact Susan Timm, EdD, at 847-214-7916 or stimm@elgin.edu or Clark Hallpike, ECC professor of business and MAGIC co-chair, at 847-214-7542 or challpike@elgin.edu.