Know the Mother is an exploration of race, gender and class through layered, complex storytelling. Author Desiree Cooper’s collection of flash fiction—which often walks the line between poetry and prose—is a searing interrogation of the mother archetype. In her interactive reading, Cooper will challenge the audience to explore sexism as it is lived.

A panel discussion exploring how the roles of race, religion and gender are influencing American politics, and particularly the 2016 elections. Perspectives from a variety of fields across the University of Minnesota looking at the current political climate, and its impact on the future of American government. Confirmed panelists include Jeanne Kilde (Religious Studies), Enid Logan (Sociology, African American Studies), Mary Vavrus (Communication Studies, Gender, Women, and Sexuality Studies), and moderator Eric Schwartz (Public Affairs).