Diversity Dialogue will address perspectives on key legal cases

"A Summer of Controversy: Exploring Perspectives on Key Legal Cases that May Shape our Communities" is the topic for the next campus Diversity Dialogue.

Moderator for the session on Thursday, Sept. 26, from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. in Heth 022 will be Assistant Professor of Social Work Deneen Evans. Presenters are Department of Criminal justice Professor and Chair Jack Call; Office of Diversity and Equity Director Brooke W. Chang; and Assistant Professor of Sociology Joanna Hunter.

Diversity Dialogue will explore some of the controversial legal cases that dominated the news this summer, for example, the Defense of Marriage Act, Voting Rights Act, Fisher v. University of Texas at Austin; and the Trayvon Martin case.

The group will address the following questions:

• How do these cases, which tackle complex social issues, fit into our nation's ongoing efforts toward democracy?
   
• How could these legal cases shape our communities?
   
• As an academic community, how can we address the implications of these cases in our classroom, work and living spaces?

All members of the Radford University community are invited to engage in meaningful conversation. Participants may bring their own lunches.

Diversity Dialogue is a monthly discussion group concerned with various issues and concepts related to intercultural competency, particularly areas affecting learning environments. Remaining sessions for the 2013-14 academic year will be Oct. 17, Nov. 14, Feb. 20, Mar. 20 and Apr. 17.

To suggest future topics or for more information, email Associate Professor Dana Rose at dgrose4@radford.edu.

Radford University is a comprehensive public university of more than 9,900 students. RU serves the Commonwealth of Virginia and the nation through a wide range of academic, cultural, human service, and research programs. Well known for its strong faculty/student bonds, innovative use of technology in the learning environment and vibrant student life on a beautiful 191-acre American classical campus, Radford University offers students many opportunities to get involved and succeed in and out of the classroom. The university offers 69 degree programs at the undergraduate level, and 21 master's programs and three doctoral programs at the graduate level. A Division I member of the NCAA and Big South Athletic Conference, Radford participates in 19 varsity sports—11 for women and eight for men. Since 2005, the university has secured approval and funding for nearly $300 million in capital projects, including both new construction and renovation.

Learn more about Radford University at www.radford.edu.