Celebrating 30 Years of Ethnic Studies Research

Celebrating 30 Years of Ethnic Studies Research: A Dialogue Among UC Ethnic Studies Faculty

This two-day conference critically examined the myriad ways scholars in Ethnic Studies at UC have expanded academic canons and disciplines, developed new theories and methodologies, and integrated their teaching and research with the struggles faced in peoples’ daily lives. The conference brought together over 30 UC scholars from a variety of campuses and from a diverse range of ethnic studies disciplines to explore and analyze how their teaching and research is employed to maintain a commitment to their profession, discipline, and the communities they are seen to represent. In addition to talking about their own research, presenters spoke indirectly about issues of plurality and unity in Ethnic Studies research. Discussion groups explored ways in which communication can be increased between Ethnic Studies programs, how to narrow the gap between communities of color and the academy, and the important role Ethnic Studies components must play in the current cultural, political, and economic landscape. The conference included a number of exhibits including a display of Ethnic Studies books by UC professors and a historical exhibit on Santa Barbara’s Chinese community.

The Center for Black Studies was the principal organizer of the conference and worked with a steering committee that included representatives from the Women’s Studies Program, Department of Chicano Studies, Department of Black Studies, Center for Chicano Studies, Department of Religious Studies and Department of Asian American Studies. Sponsors included the UC Office of the President, and at UCSB, the Offices of the Chancellor, Executive Vice Chancellor, Vice Chancellor for Research, vice Chancellor for Student Affairs, College of Letters & Science, Office of Affirmative Action, the MultiCultural Center, EPCA, and Project Crossroads.