Understanding the Impact of ‘White Supremacy in the Age of Trump’ Course in College
A private liberal arts women’s college in Northampton, Massachusetts, is offering a course called, “White Supremacy in the Age of Trump” in the spring, as President-elect Trump returns to the White House. This course delves deep into the history, prevalence, and current manifestations of the white supremacist movement, dissecting its ideological components, tactics, strategies, and its entanglement with mainstream politics.
Unpacking the Course Description
The course description outlines a comprehensive exploration of the relationship between white supremacy and white privilege. It aims to equip students with the skills to build a human rights movement to combat the white supremacist ideology in the United States. Through engaging in research, discussions, and analytical writing, the students are encouraged to explore diverse cultural perspectives and develop a nuanced understanding of the responses to white supremacy.
Course Evolution and Academic Influence
Since its inception in 2019, the course has seen several iterations, incorporating required readings from renowned “antiracist” academics like Ta-Nehisi Coates and Robin DiAngelo. Assignments challenge students to critically analyze the role of white supremacy in the election of Donald Trump and its implications for liberal democracy. The course is taught by Loretta J. Ross, a visiting associate professor at Smith College, known for her activism in advocating for women’s rights and reproductive justice.
Insights from Professor Ross
Professor Ross attributes Trump’s 2016 victory to a backlash against the civil rights movement of the 1950s and 1960s. She suggests that the resurgence of white supremacy was fueled by a concerted effort to reassert control over democracy and protect white privilege. Ross highlights the intersectionality of issues like LGBT rights, women’s rights, and environmental justice in the context of white grievance politics.
In a world where academic freedom is paramount, Smith College stands by its commitment to intellectual inquiry and freedom of expression. The college’s decision to offer this course aligns with its dedication to fostering critical thinking and engaging with complex societal issues.
As we navigate the complexities of modern society, courses like “White Supremacy in the Age of Trump” provide a platform for students to confront uncomfortable truths, challenge existing narratives, and strive for a more equitable future. Let us reflect on our role in dismantling systems of oppression and fostering a culture of inclusivity and justice for all.