Educator and activist will lead the conversation on Why Do I Need To Learn All This Black Stuff. These turbulent cultural times demand that educators, parents, and on the most basic level, human beings in America start to do the work we have to do. This session will connect the dots between the history of Blacks in America and the fulfillment of our promise as a nation that everyone is created equally. All the buzz around “critical race theory” and Educational Join Us! Series “cultural relevant” methods of teaching are hot button issues that will factor into this forum. This education system has failed to use a social justice model for creating a more democratic society. Everyone will be given the opportunity to be heard. Burgess will not be preaching to the audience, instead he will ask tough questions and help develop a course of action. What we’re calling “Black stuff,” is really EVERYONE’S STUFF.