What's Next?
The organizers of the March on Washington for Jobs & Freedom presented a list of 10 demands that called for federal legislation or action in a variety of fundamental areas including education, housing, voting, and jobs to enhance racial equality for Black people in the United States.
Some of the demands were "met" by federal legislation or other actions, yet 60 years later, there is still more work to do to achieve racial equality, racial equity, and racial justice. The 60th anniversary of the March on Washington provides an appropriate, timely springboard for assessing what elements of the MoW’s Dreams have been fulfilled, delayed, or at this point in history, need to be reimagined?
The “What's Next for the Dream?” series will explore where we are nationally and locally with regard to some of the demands and what’s needed at the national, state and local level to truly respond to those demands.
Upcoming Events
Check back for more events in Spring 2025.
The Dream Initiative
2023 marks the 60th anniversary of the March on Washington for Jobs & Freedom where the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., delivered his historic "I Have A Dream" speech. Inspired by historical and contemporary justice movements, the Dream Initiative, based in the College of Liberal Arts, invites Twin Cities organizations and communities to engage in opportunities that commemorate, foster reflection, educate and amplify our shared, social justice aspirations and actions for change. Learn more about the Dream Initiative.
Past Events
With the murder of George Floyd on May 25, 2020, the Twin Cities community, Minnesota, nation, and world witnessed protests and heard passionate demands for change with regard to racial justice. It led many to wonder “what’s next?” Is lasting, responsive change possible? Was this time different? Will we truly progress toward making our communities racially just and equitable?
The “What’s Next?” Roundtables address the critical and complex question: What’s next for us to eliminate institutional and systemic racism in society in the wake of George Floyd’s death? The series, hosted by the College of Liberal Arts, brings together community leaders in various domains, including the business and philanthropic community, the criminal justice system, K-12 education, alumni change agents, and more.
As the United States moves toward a consequential election, this discussion was an opportunity for those who care about voting to gather and become inspired to renew a commitment to protecting voting rights and maximizing voting in all elections.
