We Need to Talk
Hosted by Claytee White, this virtual educational series will feature university and community experts discussing issues on race and seeking solutions for a more inclusive society. Topics will include race-related media coverage, economics, health care, criminal justice, education, and how we move forward.
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We Need To Talk About Being Queer in Las Vegas
What is the queer community like in Las Vegas? How have anti-trans, anti-drag and book banning legislation impacted life in Las Vegas? Our diverse panel of experts will share their experiences on LGBTQ+ life in our beautiful city and discuss the issues the queer community is facing. Guest Host: Kevin Sebastian ('15 & '18, English), Teaching & Learning Librarian for Online Education, UNLV Libraries Guests: Antioco Carrillo (‘00 & ‘03, Social Work), executive director, Aid for AIDS of Nevada Laura Hernandez, Director of Youth and Senior Programs, The LGBTQIA+ Center of Southern Nevada AJ Huth, director of public affairs & civic engagement, The LGBTQIA+ Center of Southern Nevada Dennis McBride (‘77 & ‘82), Las Vegas queer historian Lukas Serrano, HIV patient manager, The LGBTQIA+ Center of Southern Nevada
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We Need To Talk - Episode 17: We Need To Talk With Muslims of Southern Nevada
The post-9/11 generation has grown up familiar with anti-Muslim political rhetoric, federal immigration restrictions referred to as “Muslim travel bans,” and other forms of discrimination. While this fear, prejudice, and hatred of Muslims can lead to hostility and intolerance, there are individuals and groups working to break down these barriers and build community in Southern Nevada. This We Need To Talk discussion will examine this history of Islamophobia and share the experiences of several Muslim-Americans who are working to dismantle stereotypes, advocate for justice, and build mutual understanding. Guest Panelists Ahlam Hamdan, ('23, Clinical Mental Health Counseling) Founder of LV Community of Hope Athar Haseebullah, Executive Director of the ACLU of Nevada Fateen Seifullah, Imam, Masjid As-Sabur, North Las Vegas
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We Need To Talk About The CROWN Act
On June 4, 2021, Nevada became the 12th state to pass the CROWN Act, banning discrimination in employment and educational opportunities based on hair texture or protective hairstyles. These include braids, locs, twists and bantu knots. The CROWN Act, which stands for Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair, was created in 2019 by Dove and the CROWN Coalition, in partnership with former California State Sen. Holly J. Mitchell. The UNLV Libraries has partnered with Demecina Beehn, a part-time instructor in the UNLV Department of Art who is a Curator of Special Projects & Programs from MGM Resorts Art & Culture, to develop an exhibit, “Wearing My Crown.” The exhibit features photography and multimedia by UNLV students of various textured hairstyles protected by the CROWN Act. The exhibit will be on display on the first floor in Lied Library throughout the Spring 2023 semester. To understand the CROWN Act’s impact, Claytee White, director of the UNLV Oral History Research Center, will host a discussion highlighting hairstyles featured in the exhibit. Panelists will share stories about their own hairstyles and how we can continue dismantling discrimination against individuals with natural hair. Panelists Dina Neal, Nevada State Senator Erica Vital-Lazare, Professor of Creative Writing and Marginalized Voices in Dystopian Literature, College of Southern Nevada Ingrid Ruffin, Associate Dean and Division Director for Research and Education, UNLV University Libraries
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We Need To Talk
The goal of the ‘We Need to Talk Series’ is to bring critical conversations about systemic racism to the forefront, generate community connections, and build solutions Author and Content Creator Tyler Merritt will be the special guest at We Need To Talk With Tyler Merritt on Wednesday, Oct. 26 at 2:30 p.m.. Hosted by Claytee White, Director of the UNLV Oral History Research Center, the event is part of the "We Need To Talk: Conversations on Racism for a More Resilient Las Vegas" series sponsored by the UNLV University Libraries and the Greenspun College of Urban Affairs. Livestreaming is provided by UNLV TV. Merritt is a Las Vegas native, graduate of Las Vegas Academy, and creator of The Tyler Merritt Project. He is author of “I Take My Coffee Black: Reflections on Tupac, Musical Theater, Faith and Being Black in America” and the new children’s book, “A Door Made For Me.” His video essay, “Before You Call the Cops,” was released in 2018 and has had more than 100 million views and was named the top 20 videos by NowThisPolitics. The same video went viral again in 2020 after the murder of George Floyd. TV host Jimmy Kimmel aired the video on his show May 20, 2020. Archived episodes of We Need To Talk are available to stream on the UNLV Libraries website. Dive deeper into the topics discussed in each episode with readings and on the We Need To Talk companion guide from the UNLV Libraries. Additional funding to support the series has been provided by UNLV Libraries Advisory Board Member Sara Mason. About We Need to Talk In 2020, following the calls for racial justice that erupted across the country and around the world following the murder of George Floyd by Minneapolis police, UNLV University Libraries and the Greenspun College of Urban Affairs launched the series, “We Need to Talk: Conversations on Racism for a More Resilient Las Vegas.” The purpose of the series is to bring frank context to the demonstrations and begin exploring pathways for equity for all Las Vegas and Southern Nevada citizens. The series features Southern Nevada community members, UNLV alumni, and researchers surrounding issues of race and systemic racism. Previous discussions have focused on specific topics like health care disparities, criminal justice reform, how communities of color are represented by news organizations in digital media, inequality in education, and economic challenges.
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We Need To Talk: Conversations on Racism for a More Resilient Las Vegas
Critical race theory is a topic we’ve heard about in the media and in political campaigns. What actually is critical race theory? It seemingly appeared out of nowhere and took over the airwaves, but where did it come from? Is it really a concept being ingrained into our school systems, or have politicization and controversy skewed its original meaning? Our panelists will help us understand why critical race theory became a hot-button issue, what critical race theory can teach us, and help us define what critical race theory is and isn’t. Host: Claytee White, director, UNLV Oral History Research Center Guests: Christine Clark, Professor of Teaching and Learning, UNLV College of Education Patrice Leverett, Assistant Professor of Counselor Education, School Psychology, and Human Services, UNLV College of Education Jayne Malorni, Education Program Lead, Nevada Department of Education
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Episode 13: We Need To Talk About The Eastside
The hub of Las Vegas’ diverse Latinx communities, the Eastside is a neighborhood rich in culture and its historical significance is now being acknowledged in county and city circles. Though often the subject of negative rhetoric and stereotypes, the Eastside is undergoing an economic resurgence. Projects are underway to invest in the community and preserve the culturally diverse Latinx history that makes Las Vegas and Southern Nevada unique. Panelists will discuss their connections to the Eastside Las Vegas neighborhood and why the Latinx community’s history is significant to understanding Nevada’s past, present, and future. Host: Claytee White, Director, Oral History Research Center, UNLV Panelists Ivet Aldaba, D.P.P., Lecturer, UNLV School of Social Work Serafin Calvo, Director of Community Services and Engagement, North Las Vegas Jose Contreras, Senior Management Analyst, Office of Community Services, City of Las Vegas Nathalie Martinez (‘21), former Latinx Voices Project Student Oral Historian More Information: https://www.library.unlv.edu/weneedtotalk Sponsored by UNLV University Libraries and the Greenspun College of Urban Affairs 00:00 Preshow 01:26 Welcome/Opening Remarks 02:54 Panelist Introductions 04:05 Start of Discussion 43:47 Start of Q&A 59:48 Close
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Episode 12: We Need to Talk About American Indian Lands
0:35 | UNLV Land Acknowledgment Statement 2:12 | Opening Remarks 3:43 | Host & Panelist Introductions 4:35 | Discussion Begins 1:04:49 | Start of Q&A 1:18:48 | Closing Remarks “We Need To Talk: Conversations on Racism for a More Resilient Las Vegas,” will host an in-person discussion at 2:30 p.m. on Mon., March 8. The series is sponsored by the UNLV Libraries and the Greenspun College of Urban Affairs. The next discussion is titled “We Need to Talk About American Indian Lands.” UNLV acknowledges and honors the Indigenous communities of this region, and recognizes that the university is situated on the traditional homelands of the Nuwuvi, Southern Paiute People. This discussion will address the history of American Indians in the Southwest region. The conversation will focus on issues related to land ownership, housing, cultural celebrations, politics, education, and healthcare within tribal communities. “We Need to Talk” is an educational series which examines how multiple aspects of systemic racism impact our community. The goal is to propose steps communities and individuals can take to affect positive change. The series features Southern Nevada community members, UNLV alumni, and researchers surrounding issues of race and systemic racism. The series is hosted by Claytee White, Director, Oral History Research Center at UNLV.
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Episode 11: We Need to Talk About Antisemitism
The panel series, “We Need To Talk: Conversations on Racism for a More Resilient Las Vegas,” will host an in-person and livestreamed discussion on Wed., Nov. 15 at 2:30 p.m. The series is sponsored by the UNLV Libraries and the Greenspun College of Urban Affairs. The next discussion is titled “We Need to Talk About Antisemitism.” “We Need to Talk” is an educational series which examines how multiple aspects of systemic racism impact our community. The goal is to propose steps communities and individuals can take to affect positive change. The series features Southern Nevada community members, UNLV alumni, and researchers surrounding issues of race and systemic racism.
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Episode 10: We Need to Talk About AAPI Inclusion
The panel series, “We Need To Talk: Conversations on Racism for a More Resilient Las Vegas,” will host an in-person and livestreamed discussion on Wed., Nov. 3 at 2:30 p.m. The series is sponsored by the UNLV Libraries and the Greenspun College of Urban Affairs. The Asian-American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community represents one of the fastest growing populations in Las Vegas and Southern Nevada. Yet, Asian-Americans have long encountered prejudice and discrimination with their experiences often going unnoticed and their accomplishments dismissed. This panel discussion will cover why understanding and learning more about AAPI history, achievements and aspirations is vital to creating a more inclusive society. Topics will include defining inclusivity, the AAPI community’s positive impact in Nevada, and ways to combat anti-Asian hate sentiments.
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Episode 9: We Need To Talk About Anti-Asian Hate
UNLV Libraries and UNLV Greenspun College of Urban Affairs host "We Need To Talk About Anti-Asian Hate," a discussion about the history of discrimination and violence Asian-American and Pacific Islander communities have experienced.
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Episode 8: We Need To Talk About Las Vegas' Westside Neighborhood
The We Need To Talk series was created to foster open dialogue and begin formulating solutions to address systemic racism and white supremacy. These much-needed discussions were the brainchild of Su Kim Chung, Ph.D., Head of Public Services in UNLV’s Special Collection & Archives, and are sponsored by the University Libraries and the Greenspun College of Urban Affairs. These panel discussions will provide historical context, dating back to 1619, while addressing issues that are challenging us in the present day. Each conversation brings together UNLV researchers and community experts. We will formulate solutions for the long-term work we must do to heal our country and move us forward. This will take a commitment from all of us. These conversations will be difficult, but we must do this work. More Information: https://www.library.unlv.edu/weneedtotalk
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Episode 7: We Need To Talk About Where We Go From Here
The We Need To Talk series was created to foster open dialogue and begin formulating solutions to address systemic racism and white supremacy. These much-needed discussions were the brainchild of Su Kim Chung, Ph.D., Head of Public Services in UNLV’s Special Collection & Archives, and are sponsored by the University Libraries and the Greenspun College of Urban Affairs. These panel discussions will provide historical context, dating back to 1619, while addressing issues that are challenging us in the present day. Each conversation brings together UNLV researchers and community experts. We will formulate solutions for the long-term work we must do to heal our country and move us forward. This will take a commitment from all of us. These conversations will be difficult, but we must do this work. More Information: https://www.library.unlv.edu/weneedtotalk
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Episode 6: We Need To Talk About Education
The We Need To Talk series was created to foster open dialogue and begin formulating solutions to address systemic racism and white supremacy. These much-needed discussions were the brainchild of Su Kim Chung, Ph.D., Head of Public Services in UNLV’s Special Collection & Archives, and are sponsored by the University Libraries and the Greenspun College of Urban Affairs. These panel discussions will provide historical context, dating back to 1619, while addressing issues that are challenging us in the present day. Each conversation brings together UNLV researchers and community experts. We will formulate solutions for the long-term work we must do to heal our country and move us forward. This will take a commitment from all of us. These conversations will be difficult, but we must do this work. More Information: https://www.library.unlv.edu/weneedtotalk
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Episode 5: We Need To Talk About Health Care
The We Need To Talk series was created to foster open dialogue and begin formulating solutions to address systemic racism and white supremacy. These much-needed discussions were the brainchild of Su Kim Chung, Ph.D., Head of Public Services in UNLV’s Special Collection & Archives, and are sponsored by the University Libraries and the Greenspun College of Urban Affairs. These panel discussions will provide historical context, dating back to 1619, while addressing issues that are challenging us in the present day. Each conversation brings together UNLV researchers and community experts. We will formulate solutions for the long-term work we must do to heal our country and move us forward. This will take a commitment from all of us. These conversations will be difficult, but we must do this work. More Information: https://www.library.unlv.edu/weneedtotalk
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Episode 4: We Need To Talk About Economics
The We Need To Talk series was created to foster open dialogue and begin formulating solutions to address systemic racism and white supremacy. These much-needed discussions were the brainchild of Su Kim Chung, Ph.D., Head of Public Services in UNLV’s Special Collection & Archives, and are sponsored by the University Libraries and the Greenspun College of Urban Affairs. These panel discussions will provide historical context, dating back to 1619, while addressing issues that are challenging us in the present day. Each conversation brings together UNLV researchers and community experts. We will formulate solutions for the long-term work we must do to heal our country and move us forward. This will take a commitment from all of us. These conversations will be difficult, but we must do this work. More Information: https://www.library.unlv.edu/weneedtotalk
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Episode 3: We Need To Talk About Communication
The We Need To Talk series was created to foster open dialogue and begin formulating solutions to address systemic racism and white supremacy. These much-needed discussions were the brainchild of Su Kim Chung, Ph.D., Head of Public Services in UNLV’s Special Collection & Archives, and are sponsored by the University Libraries and the Greenspun College of Urban Affairs. These panel discussions will provide historical context, dating back to 1619, while addressing issues that are challenging us in the present day. Each conversation brings together UNLV researchers and community experts. We will formulate solutions for the long-term work we must do to heal our country and move us forward. This will take a commitment from all of us. These conversations will be difficult, but we must do this work. More Information: https://www.library.unlv.edu/weneedtotalk
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Episode 2: We Need To Talk About Criminal Justice
The We Need To Talk series was created to foster open dialogue and begin formulating solutions to address systemic racism and white supremacy. These much-needed discussions were the brainchild of Su Kim Chung, Ph.D., Head of Public Services in UNLV’s Special Collection & Archives, and are sponsored by the University Libraries and the Greenspun College of Urban Affairs. These panel discussions will provide historical context, dating back to 1619, while addressing issues that are challenging us in the present day. Each conversation brings together UNLV researchers and community experts. We will formulate solutions for the long-term work we must do to heal our country and move us forward. This will take a commitment from all of us. These conversations will be difficult, but we must do this work. More Information: https://www.library.unlv.edu/weneedtotalk
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We Need To Talk: Conversations About Racism For A More Resilient Las Vegas
The We Need To Talk series was created to foster open dialogue and begin formulating solutions to address systemic racism and white supremacy. These much-needed discussions were the brainchild of Su Kim Chung, Ph.D., Head of Public Services in UNLV’s Special Collection & Archives, and are sponsored by the University Libraries and the Greenspun College of Urban Affairs. These panel discussions will provide historical context, dating back to 1619, while addressing issues that are challenging us in the present day. Each conversation brings together UNLV researchers and community experts. We will formulate solutions for the long-term work we must do to heal our country and move us forward. This will take a commitment from all of us. These conversations will be difficult, but we must do this work. More Information: https://www.library.unlv.edu/weneedtotalk