We are dismayed at the recent racist violence, and murders, in
Atlanta, and across the country, against Asian and Asian-American
people and women in particular. We recognize that this is part of
an ongoing regime of racism and violence and denounce it.
We stand in solidarity with those working against racism in
our communities, workplaces, government, and cultural
environment.
As Artists and Educators in Theatre, Dance, and Performance we
unequivocally condemn the historically rooted and pervasive
racist murders of African Americans and other people of color by
police in the United States and globally. We acknowledge these
most recent examples are not unique. We acknowledge this plague
is systemic and extends beyond the police. We cannot function as
a society, nor as a learning institution, in a context where
people of color cannot walk, jog, drive, talk, or even sleep in
their homes safely without fear of being murdered by the state.
We certainly cannot teach our craft, which is by its very nature
a living and breathing engagement with all people, without
denouncing this violence, and the hateful rhetoric that fuels it.
Professor L.M. Bogad, chair of theatre and dance, has been
awarded a Guggenheim Fellowship
from the John Simon Guggenheim
Memorial Foundation. Bogad received his fellowship for his
achievements in the category of Theatre Arts and Performance
Studies.
Alumna Michele Apriña Leavy (MFA dramatic art, ’94), a lecturer
in theatre and dance, is featured on the cover of the April issue
of Montclair Living, a monthly publication
serving Oakland. The article covers Leavy’s career as a
performer and arts educator who rose to the challenge of teaching
acting in a virtual classroom. In addition, Leavy discusses her
heritage and background as well as her affection for her
community.
Broadway veteran Mindy Cooper, professor of theatre and
dance, is the chair of the advisory board for the Ann
Reinking Scholarship which has been established to honor the
late award-winning choreographer, dancer and actress. The
scholarship is now seeking applications for its first gift now
through June 30.
