In “A Framework for Civil Discourse about Race and Racism,” Dr. Wornie Reed details how we’ve been looking at the issue of racism from the wrong perspective. He asks that we focus on defining the problem while looking at our institutions, versus focusing solely on prejudice.

Wornie is a professor of sociology and Africana Studies, and director of the Race and Social Policy Research Center at Virginia Tech. He teaches courses in health and medical care, criminal justice, and Africana Studies. Dr. Reed’s honors and awards include two Regional Emmys—received in 2000 and 2003—for his work with Public Health Television, Inc., on the Urban Cancer Project, which produced television shows on cancer prevention aimed at African Americans. Recently, Wornie was elected to the board of directors of the American Civil Liberties Union of Virginia

This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at http://ted.com/tedx