Race and Cultural Diversity in American Life and History

Learners in the "Race and Cultural Diversity in American Life and History" course will explore the profound influence of race, ethnicity, and cultural diversity on American society from its inception to the present day. Through a comprehensive examination of historical and social relationships, this course illuminates the far-reaching impact of race and ethnicity on American institutions, law, ideology, and social interactions.

This thought-provoking course encompasses a broad spectrum of perspectives, addressing the historical and social interactions among European Americans, Native Americans, African Americans, Latino/as, and Asian/Pacific Americans. It seeks to interweave diverse experiences into a larger synthesis of the meaning of race and ethnicity in American life, acknowledging the distinctive cultural differences and unique historical experiences of each group.

• Gain a deep understanding of the ideological and cultural processes that shape all social institutions, belief systems, inter-group relationships, and individual experiences.
• Explore the historical legacies of race in the United States, including the foundational role of race in American society, the impact of slavery, racial exclusion, immigration, and practices of racial subordination.
• Examine the legacies of race and racism in contemporary society, including geographical segregation, implicit racial bias, and social disparities in education, housing, wealth, and income.
• Investigate the role of race and ethnicity in American social institutions, addressing institutional racism, social disparities, discrimination, and racial and ethnic disparities in wealth, income, education, and housing.