The presence of African Americans in South Dakota stretches back to the earliest days of the territory, yet this history is often a surprise to people in this region and beyond. Why is Black history not a larger part of the popular imaginings of South Dakota, and how do the silences around Black history reflect long-standing historical erasures of the contributions of people of color? We miss so much of our collective history when we fail to consider the varied and complicated histories of African Americans who lived and passed through here. This talk will encourage everyone to think critically about the intersections between local and regional histories and the larger national and global conversations on racism, colonization, and segregation. The aim is that we use this information to create a more just and inclusive community. Laura Renée Chandler, PhD, is the Director of the Center for Diversity and Community at the University of South Dakota. Previously, she was an Assistant Professor of History at South Dakota State University, specializing in US history, women’s history, and African American Studies. Chandler has a BA in political science from Macalester College and MA and PhD in history from Rice University. She currently serves as the Director of the South Dakota African American History Museum located in downtown Sioux Falls at the Washington Pavilion.
Dr. Chandler educates students about the histories of marginalized groups to foster solidarity, empathy, and self-empowerment. In addition to writing and teaching, she frequently presents on issues dealing with race, social justice, and social movement history. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx