Existence and Uniqueness: the MoCAT Book Club
(Spring 2022)

This semester, MoCAT invites the UT Austin math department (undergrads, grads, faculty, etc.) to continue to read and discuss Practices and Policies: Advocating for Students of Color in Mathematics by Dr. Pamela Harris and Dr. Aris Winger. This book features a collection of narratives and practices in advocacy work contributed by a variety of mathematicians doing important work towards advocating for students of color in mathematics. To quote the book,

"... the book centers over 300 tangible practices and policies to advocate for students of color in mathematics, compiled from participants in our professional development programming which answers the question “What can I do to advocate for students of color?”

After engaging with the book the reader will be equipped with numerous concrete suggestions for advocating for students of color, ways in which they can continue this work in spite of challenges that may arise, and most importantly, the reader will have the opportunity to reimagine what it means for them personally to be an advocate for students of color."

For each meeting, we will provide assigned sections to read, as well as prompts for discussion. In these discussions, you might experience vulnerability or discomfort at some level. We ask that you maintain an open mind and be courteous and respectful of all participants, in accordance with our conduct policies.

Our first meeting of this semester will be on Thursday March 10th at 5:00 PM, and from then on we will meet every second Thursday of each month. The Zoom Meeting ID is 924 5122 0257.

To participate, you don't need to commit to attending every discussion - feel free to attend whenever you are available. If you are interested in joining the book club, please fill out this survey. ***By filling out this survey, we may be able to get you a copy of the book. More details will be made available soon!***

March 10th

Readings:

  • 3. Historical Context as an Inclusive Practice by Catherine Cannizzo (p. 28-55)

  • 4. The Limits of "Warm and Welcoming" by Ralph Morrison (p. 56-64)

Discussion Questions:

Coming soon!