Assignment 3: Reading Response and Documenting DRES
Joy Ann Williamson, author of several of our assigned readings this week, reminds readers that "The federal government initiated various policies amid the growing urgency of racial reconciliation in the 1960s. The 1964 Civil Rights Act and the 1965 Higher Education Act were enacted against the backdrop of the Black liberation struggle. Higher education institutions were affected by these federal policies, and many, including the University of Illinois, genuinely believed that universities had an important role to play in alleviating racial injustice and took steps to use their campuses as tools for societal reform." (Williamson, 2013, 56).
Read and review the assigned readings on Project 500 & Nevada Street. Using both Williamson pieces and the Hoxie & Hughes readings, consider how the authors assess campus success and the transformation process of this work. Cite at least 3 different strategies used by campus-based groups, students and administrators to disrupt barriers to push for innovations in inclusion and diversity policies at UIUC. Which tactics successfully promoted diversity, which failed, and why? Consider whether the authors would argue that these innovations furthered inclusion and diversity on campus today, or not. Is the work complete? Elaborate why or why not. (approximately 1 page)
Part 2: Documenting DRES
1. On Thursday, September 7, we will meet at noon at the DRES facility, 1207 S. Oak St. Champaign, IL 61820. We will meet in the lobby area at the main entrance. If you can't find us, please call Karen at 217-898-8787.
2. In no more than 1 page, describe and summarize what you observe to be strategies and services that DRES uses to address barriers of representation for "disability" today. How do DRES' building and physical design assets represent that work? What interdisciplinary partnerships do you see them developing and leading today to further those aims? During the tour, take three photos of objects that address a "politics of visibility" faced by DRES in the past/present. Take along a notebook and make note of three memorable quotes/phrases our DRES hosts say to explain such work over time. Reflecting on your visit, what specific challenges do you think DRES faces today in extending their story and impact?
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Make sure to upload your assignment to your Scalar page. We'll take some time to share these in class on Tuesday and send us (macs265teachingteam@gmail.com) the link by 12pm (noon) Monday.