Asian American Activism 101 is a pilot program consisting of bi-weekly group discussions as well as opportunities to attend regional and national events. This program is designed to accomplish these goals:
Topics to be covered during group discussions may include the following:
- Where to get news and information
- How to get involved
- Media representation and societal perceptions
- Model Minority Myth
- Anti-Asian violence
- Asian Diaspora
- Immigration
- Gender stereotypes
In addition to group discussions, there will also be opportunities to attend regional and national retreats and conferences where students are able to participate in workshops and meet students from other colleges and universities. These retreats and conferences are hosted by several student-run organizations including:
Is this a class for credit?
The bi-weekly discussions are not part of a class and this program is not associated with any academic program within any of the six undergraduate schools at Northwestern. Thus, participation in this program does not offer any course credit.
How often do we meet?
During the fall quarter, discussion sessions are bi-weekly (every other week) starting the second week of classes. Each session is an hour long, but participants may stay longer if they want to continue discussing that session's topic. All sessions will take place at the Multicultural Center, 1936 Sheridan Road.
Is this a year-long commitment?
Since this is a pilot program, there are currently no discussion sessions planned for the winter and spring quarters. However, if there is sufficient interest to continue sessions with new topics after the fall quarter, then winter and spring sessions will be planned.
Even though plans for discussion sessions are tentative for the winter and spring quarters, there will be a variety of activism opportunities throughout the year for participants to get involved with learning about and addressing Asian American issues. Participation in these opportunities is voluntary.
Am I required to attend all discussions?
Although participants are encouraged to attend as many discussion sessions and take advantage of as many activism opportunities as possible, participation in this program is not mandatory. Participants may participate at whatever level is comfortable for them, especially given their respective class schedules and extra-curricular activities. However, any participant who attends all discussion sessions will receive a Certificate of Completion.
