Join us at the Appalachian Center for a special workshop led by Dr. Sasikumar Balasundaram. We are excited to welcome Dr. Balasundaram back to campus! Lunch will be provided. Space is limited so please be sure to RSVP: https://www.as.uky.edu/October18-RSVP
Overview: This workshop will assist attendees in analyzing social change with a new look and creative strategies. It will serve as a forum to exchange ideas and tools necessary for individual and collective activism.
Abstract: Almost all our communities experience consequences of social inequality, climate crisis, and food insecurity. Developing creative and sustainable local strategies are vital to address these multi-dimensional problems. Analyzing ourselves and our communities from a critical standpoint are vital for collaborative work. In this workshop, I will share the experience of working with different communities and how the lessons learned from them led to developing a long-term sustainable strategy to continue my social justice, food justice, and climate justice activism. This workshop will explore the various way one can engage in social activism. For example, we will explore the role of local farmer’s markets in climate activism. This workshop will emphasize participants identifying their potential in creating social change. Upon completing this workshop, participants will be confident in analyzing their communities and developing creative, sustainable strategies that can lead to positive outcomes. This workshop also will help participants link personal interests to professional development and social activism.
Bio sketch: Dr. Sasikumar Balasundaram received his Ph.D. from the University of South Carolina. He previously taught at the University of Kentucky and Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. He co-founded the Confluence Climate Collaborative; an advocacy group focused on environmental justice in Southern Illinois. He had also partnered with local communities to improve race relations in the greater East St. Louis area. He currently teaches at the College of William and Mary and runs the Harvest Earth, a non-profit organization focused on climate change, food security, and racial justice.
Workshop cosponsored by the Appalachian Center & Appalachian Studies Program, Department of Anthropology, and Environmental & Sustainability Studies.
