This is the first lunch session in the series titled "World History in Turbulent Times". WHC Director Ruth Mostern will host the kick-off event with a discussion on the topic of "Why do activists need world history: From reparations to climate justice."
At the World History Center, we realize that one feature of our turbulent times is that political activists are thinking about history. They study the past to explain the present, to build strategy, and to make cases to the public. For example, defenders of democracy invoke the 1930s and 40s when they raise alarms about today’s right wing movements, and when they recollect the grim consequences of the world’s failure to welcome refugees from fascist genocide. From Hong Kong to Kashmir, the legacy of the British Empire looms large whenever there is repression in its former colonies. Activists reference history in their work to organize around labor unions, racial justice, immigrant rights, the climate strike, and more. In this context, we welcome colleagues, students and community partners to participate in a lunch conversation to discuss how scholars of the global past can be allies and accomplices for activists who may seek our expertise.
A light lunch will be served, so please RSVP to whc@pitt.edu.