Corvallis, OR 

Speaker: Ila Varma

Title: “Mathematics for the people”

Abstract: This lecture will be an invitation to begin imagining what the subject and teaching of mathematics would evolve into if we prioritized its value to everyday people all around the world. Such a revolution of the subject would not only require junior mathematicians' imagination; we will need you to solve the most difficult problems that have eluded us for centuries: organizing yourselves and your mathematics classes, building connections with the communities where you study and where you come from, and critically thinking about the structures of society the way we enjoy studying mathematical structures, to name a few. During the lecture, we will take some time for radical imagining, after discussing the historical and present-day context of why much of our (mathematical) education limits our imagination, and conclude with strategies for developing the tools necessary for collectively fighting towards a mathematics for the people.

One of the main goals of Math For All is to create a welcoming environment for all participants. We wish for every participant to feel welcome, included, and safe at our conference.  For that reason, we ask you to be mindful of your words and actions when communicating with others. We all have a bias and make mistakes. With an open mind and a willingness to apologize, we can create a safe space for everybody. 

Harassment or discrimination of any kind based on race, color, national origin, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, creed, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression will not be permitted.

Hate speech is not permitted at the conference. We want to clarify that hate speech does not include the criticism of institutions or governments, but rather that of individuals or groups of individuals, and that we welcome uncomfortable conversations that stimulate a growth mind set.   

If there is a situation during the conference that makes you feel unwelcome, we ask you to please talk to one of the organizers so we can help you as best as we can.