FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Aug. 30, 2005
FY05-63
Nationally Known Anti-Racist Writer and Activist to Speak at Free, Public Lecture in Oak Ridge
OAK RIDGE, Tenn.—Tim Wise has been called, “one of the most brilliant, articulate and courageous critics of white privilege,” by best-selling author and professor Michael Dyson of the University of Pennsylvania; and his book, White Like Me: Reflections on Race from a Privileged Son, has been called “invigorating” and “revolutionary” by critics and scholars.
At 3:30 p.m., Wednesday, Sept. 7, Tim Wise will speak at Pollard Technology Conference Center in a free, public lecture sponsored by Oak Ridge Associated Universities (ORAU).
In his book and lectures, Wise uses stories from his own life to discuss the ways in which whites so often receive unearned privileges solely because of their race. He points out that whites typically ignore the ways racism plays out for people of color—and how it provides advantages to whites as a result. However, in the long run, he states that failing to address racial inequality harms everyone in American society.
He challenges audiences to open their eyes to not only see America as it is, but also to act—not for the cause of being politically correct, but because it is right.
Following the lecture, attendees are invited to a reception in the Pollard lobby where they will be able to speak one-on-one with Wise. For more information or to purchase Wise’s book, White Like Me: Reflections on Race from a Privileged Son, visit www.timwise.org.
This lecture is being presented by ORAU’s Diversity Council, a volunteer team of employees that serves as a critical link between the ORAU leadership team and employees in the areas of diversity and equal employment opportunities.
ORAU is a university consortium leveraging the scientific strength of 91 major research institutions to advance science and education by partnering with national laboratories, government agencies and private industry. ORAU manages the Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education for the U.S. Department of Energy.