It was a decade of upheaval and transformational change, and even though more than half a century has passed, the 1960s themes resonate now more than ever: racism, sexism, freedom of speech and press, political divide, and social unrest. It was an era when the world went full-speed ahead, pushing the boundaries in technology and culture, giving us the space race, and various movements including civil rights, feminism and environmental concerns.
In the 2018-2019 academic year, UNCG will host a yearlong, interdisciplinary events series that examines “The 1960s: Exploring the Boundaries.” Some headliners include:
- Alexander Bernstein, son of the acclaimed conductor Leonard Bernstein (who would be 100 in September) and pianist Laura Downs.
- Law professor and renowned First Amendment expert Geoffrey Stone, from the University of Chicago Law School, will visit campus to lecture about Free Speech.
- Author Reyna Grande will speak to students about her book, which has been chosen as the year’s Freshman Read. The Distance Between Us, is Grande’s poignant memoir about the hardships and heartbreaks of immigrant children. Grande will visit campus for a lecture in October.
A new aspect of this collaboration is the awarding of mini-grants made possible by the Office of the Provost for faculty to develop programs and classes within the 60’s theme. Some of these will be:
- Choreography of nonviolent protests
- Films and discussions about the Grateful Dead
- Photography exhibit about the Freedom Riders and Freedom Schools
A complete listing of events for “The 60’s: Exploring the Boundaries” will be announced later. Check the website to keep with events.
