Beginning tomorrow (Monday, June 7) a free class on the “History of anti-Black racism in Iowa” is being offered. The Ankeny School District shared information about the class and a link to register.
The class will run from June 7 – July 9 and includes strategies for resistance. The course description says it is a unique collaboration of units across Iowa State University and the state of Iowa.
“A much-needed response to the lack of resources related to Iowa state history education,” it says. “Despite statewide interest in Iowa history as documented by the Department of Cultural Affairs, there are few opportunities to learn about it — especially history related to social justice and diversity.”
The Iowa Department of Education surveyed teachers across Iowa and found there are “very few” social studies education professional development opportunities for Iowa teachers.
“Teaching And Learning Iowa History (TALIH) helps to fill that void by providing an innovative approach to connecting the general public, university students and pre- and in-service teachers interested in learning more about Iowa history.
“This summer, our focus is on the history and legacy of anti-black racism in Iowa and examining strategies for resistance.”
The class is open to all Iowa State students, Iowa teachers and Iowa community members.
“Curriculum is split into four online learning modules covering historical and modern examples of strategies of whiteness and strategies of resistance. The strategies of whiteness will examine tools of white supremacy that are used to disenfranchise Black students. Whereas the strategies of resistance module will highlight instances of Black-led advocacy and activism movements that uplifted and empowered the Black community in Iowa.”
