Decolonizing the Classics – Free “Teacher Talk”at the Penn Museum – Apr 11

Posted by Penn Museum on April 9, 2024

For almost the entirety of the history of Western education, the “Classics” (generally, ancient Greco-Roman literature and philosophy) have played an oversized role in curricula. While undeniably important and worth learning about, many other scholars, writers, and thinkers have made invaluable contributions to pedagogic thought. Further, the absence of scholars of color from this history of education is conspicuous and problematic.

The process of addressing this serious issue is referred to as “decolonization”. In this professional development event for Philadelphia-area teachers, Ian Lockey (Instructor of Latin and Ancient Greek, and Upper School DEI coordinator of Friends Select School) will be giving a presentation on what exactly decolonization entails, why it is so important, and how we as educators can take part in this vital work!

In this presentation, attendees will learn about the historical connections between Classics and white supremacy, moments of resistance within the discipline, and the ways in which people are now working to reimagine how this subject can be a locus of liberation rather than oppression. As always: Dinner will be provided, Act 48 Credits available, and parking vouchers are available.

Date & Time: April 11 from 4:30-6:30pm
Location: Penn Museum: 3260 South Street, Classroom M1

Interested? For more information, contact Christopher LaChapelle at crlachap@upenn.edu or learn more and register here.