REGISTRATION NOW OPEN: Early Bird deadline Feb. 15

Why Transforming Race

Race is not the only edge along which we divide in the United States and around the world, but it remains perhaps the sharpest. The Kirwan Institute, and this conference, are dedicated to the proposition that we can transform the meanings and operations of race through informed dialogue, practices, and policies that create and expand opportunity for all. We invite you to contribute your ideas and your insights.

Why Visions of Change?

In ways big and small, a great many people are working to advance the cause of racial equity and social justice in the United States and around the world. What would the United States look like in a generation or two if the successes of that work matched our aspirations? If the seeds of transformation are in place right now, what are they and how can we recognize and nurture them? How do we move from here to there? Who has what role to play in that movement? These are questions we very rarely ask, much less try to answer. This must change. If we cannot articulate a positive vision of a racial future distinct from and preferable to our racial present, how can we expect skeptics to embrace the struggle – and, yes, perhaps the sacrifice – required to get there?

Who Should Attend?

Scholars, social justice leaders, advocates, business people, policy makers, students, researchers, teachers, non-profit and community leaders, and just plain folks – anyone interested in offering and gaining insight into the contours of race and ethnicity in the United States today. In addition to the attractions of the conference itself, participants will be able to tap into the entertainment and dining attractions of downtown Columbus, Ohio, just a short drive from The Ohio State University campus.