By Joe Crollard
As the first of a series of conversations regarding sensitive but important societal issues, “Real Talk,” began on Jan. 16 with a public discussion on institutionalized racism and the events in Ferguson, MO.
The event was arranged by Associated Student Council Officer of Environmental and Community Affairs Eulalia Engel and the Shades of Color Club.
The event, deemed a “safe space” by coordinators, was held in the Longhouse at Peninsula College.
The purpose of the discussion was to bring awareness to current issues and get people talking about issues that many simply ignore.
“Ultimately, we are combating apathy by holding a conversation. The goal is to develop solutions to the issues and apply them in our own community and day to day lives,” Engel said.
“The battle we fight today is a mental struggle. We’ve been conditioned too much and taught too little.
Humans all have the same basic things regardless of our ideals and personal identities. In order for us to see this then we have to talk to each other. This will require stepping out of our comfort zones. So that’s is what real talk is about.”
The discussion, according to Jessica Lee of the Shades of Color Club, had a “great turnout.” The two groups are in the process of arranging the next installment of the series.
Future topics may include anything from biased propaganda in the media, suicide, CIA torture reports, gender equity, police brutality, systematic oppression of the lower classes, environmental and social injustices, international issues, and more.
Real Talk is open to students and the community.