First, I am no longer working as an equity administrator. I am back to the classroom to serve as a proud sociology teacher. I voluntarily left the role and, as you can probably imagine, I learned a lot about the barriers and effective tools for change that are typically associated with diversity, equity, inclusion, and social justice in the academy. I honestly feel lucky to have at least one year to talk about the value of sociology for college students as a person who brought a unique perspective to a role rarely played by a person with a graduate degree in sociology. I plan to share all of the lessons I can, including information that I learned from mistakes. As my friends often remind me, it is important to focus on the ways that I can act on the lessons I learned (rather than staying in the pit of perfectionist anxiety).
The second thing has to do with The Majority Report podcast and the newest attempt at the movie Superman. As I was watching Superman, I couldn't help but imagine what it would be like if Michael Brooks, Sam Seder, and the stereotypical neoliberal “centrist” that was portrayed by comedian David Feldmam. How funny would it be if that centrist character said something like, “I really like that Superman movie because he took the time to let everyone know “Don't worry, I am going to help and I have a plan to pay for it.” The thought of the unforgettable cackle by Michael Brooks with the less common laughter of Sam Seder (no shade intended) felt like something worth sharing.
It is hard out here. I hope you find ways to laugh and take care of yourself with other people along the way, friends. Maybe check out some of the recent work of our best voices against racecraft too, like Toure Reed, Vivek Chibber, Zaretta Hammond, and Adolph Reed Jr. Send me stuff I should check out too, if you don't mind.
Be well,
-Ced