The pandemic has shown Americans how far apart they are. But out of this crisis there’s a chance to build a better nation. — The New York Times. 2020. “Opinion | The America We Need,” April 17, 2020.
The success of a democracy depends on the ability of citizens from diverse backgrounds to find common ground on key issues. However, it may be difficult to understand the consequences of inequality if you have never experienced them yourself. That’s why we must share our stories so we can come together to build the America we need.
This summer course for Clemente students and grads will invite you to become an active participant in the deliberative conversation of democracy by training you to become a skilled writer and reader of opinion pieces. Over the five weeks of the course you will also be guided through the step-by-step process of drawing on your life experience and reading to compose an op-ed of roughly 750-850 words on a subject of importance to you.
All articles written in this course will be submitted to local newspapers to be considered for publication. Mass Humanities will also feature selected op-eds written in this course on its website. In September, graduates of the course from all four Massachusetts Clemente programs will participate in a symposium hosted WBUR and moderated by one of their journalists.
COURSE OVERVIEW
Instructor:
Lucia Knoles, Professor of English, Assumption College.
Schedule:
6:30-8:30 pm, Tuesdays and Thursdays from June 16 to July 16 (10 meetings).
Class Format:
All classes will be conducted online using ZOOM.
Course Credit:
All students who successfully complete the course requirements will receive 1 credit from Bard College.
Technology Needs:
Any student accepted into the course who needs computer access will be provided with a Chromebook. Any student accepted in the course who needs internet access will be provided with a subscription for the duration of the course.
Who is Eligible to Apply:
Any Clemente Worcester alum or current student. Our goal is to assemble up to 20 students representing all years of the program.
Curious about the kinds of topics we might be discussing?
Most course readings will come from this online collection of op-eds.
