Discourse2Action, an organization dedicated to fostering dialogue and transformation around issues of racial justice, continues its monthly Overcoming Racism series by tackling the topic of reparations. On September 22, 2024, Dr. Guy Mount, Associate Professor of African American Studies at Wake Forest University, and an expert in abolition and reparations will share what the movement looks like and how Charlotte can play its role.
Over the past 14 months, the series, held in the historic Grier Heights neighborhood, an area with deep roots in Charlotte's Black history, offers participants an opportunity to engage meaningfully with important social issues. The participants, diverse in faith and race, have delved into a wide range of aspects of society impacted by racism such as Power, Shared Narrative, Education, the Legal System, and the lack of an Anti-Hate Law in South Carolina.
This on-going series, grounded in the foundational principle of the oneness of humankind, and dedicated to including the arts in its explorations, encourages participants to confront their biases, develop meaningful friendships with those of different lived experiences, and take action toward creating a more unified and just community. Additional topics have included the role of religious communities and the moral obligation of individuals to confront and address racism. Focusing locally, presentations included a Charlotte couple experiencing a cross-burning and a student's protest against book censorship.
Dr. Guy Mount on Reparations
In September’s session, Dr. Guy Mount will provide a focused exploration of the history of the reparations movement and the path toward local action. As cities across the country, such as Evanston, IL, begin to explore and enact reparations policies, Dr. Mount will offer insights into how Charlotte can play a leading role in the national conversation. Participants will be introduced to practical tools and resources to help launch a reparations process at the local level.
Dr. Mount’s presentation will highlight how reparations should be conceptualized and how individuals and communities can get involved in the growing national movement. The conversation is timely, as Charlotte continues to confront its own history and seeks to become a model for how local governments can address historical harm.
“Discourse2Action has consistently created space for our community to engage in conversations that many would consider challenging, but that are crucial to creating an anti-racist society,” said a representative from Discourse2Action. “We are excited to have Dr. Guy Mount help us understand how Charlotte can take its place in the national reparations conversation.”
For more information about the event, Discourse2Action’s Overcoming Racism series, or how to get involved, please contact James Pitts.
About Discourse2Action
Discourse2Action is dedicated to fostering justice, equity, and social transformation through meaningful dialogue and action. Since 2023, its Overcoming Racism series has provided Charlotte/Mecklenburg with opportunities to explore, discuss, and take action on critical social justice issues. The organization empowers individuals and groups to challenge systemic inequality and work toward a more just and unified society.
About Dr. Mount
Assistant professor of American History and African American Studies focusing on the intersection of Black transnationalism, Western modernity, and global empires. Dr. Mount’s research includes: African Diaspora, slavery, emancipation, Jim Crow, colonialism, American empire, the Atlantic World, racial capitalism, critical mixed race studies, Afro-Asian solidarities, peace studies, and radical Black politics.
Media Contact:
James Pitts
Co-founder Discourse2Action
704-619-5375
jpitts2186@gmail.com
