SUNY Cortland hosts event speaking on injustices in schools

In recognition of the national "Black Lives Matter in Schools Week of Action", SUNY Cortland hosted a panel presentation yesterday, featuring four educators from Binghamton (Dario Vazquez), Syracuse (Reba Hodge), and Ithaca (Lisa Sahasrabudhe & Alex Scher). 

The panel discussed the assets black students bring to schools, along with the barriers they face, and what educators can do to better support black students and families in schools. The panel was moderated by Dr. Margaret Gichuru.

“We believe here at SUNY Cortland that they (students) should be prepared to have a critical perspective on race and to be prepared to run a culturally responsive curriculum,” said Maton.

Over 300 people attended the discussion. Every seat was taken in Sperry's room 105 lecture hall, with some attendees having to stand to view the presentation.

The event was organized by Rhiannon Maton, Amanda Miller and Kate McCormick, in partnership with the School of Education, the C.U.R.E. Program, African American History Month, Foundations and Social Advocacy Department, and SUNY Cortland's Sophia's Garden.

(Photo from Rhiannon Maton).

SUNY Cortland will be having other events throughout February to celebrate Black History Month, and many are listed on their website  - www2.Cortland.edu.