Program changes name to ethnic studies
By Amy Geiszler-Jones
The former minority studies program has undergone a name change and is now the ethnic studies program.
The new name is a better one in a number of ways, says program director Daisy Kabagarama. "It’s more reflective of what we do," she says.
It’s also a sign of the times. Ethnic studies is becoming a more common name for such programs across the country.
One reason is that population numbers are changing, and groups once considered in the minority are now becoming majority populations.
Also, "some individuals interpret the term minority to mean less capable, and therefore we want to get rid of those negative connotations," says Kabagarama, an associate professor.
The program is hosting a reception for WSU students from 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. today (Thursday, Sept. 21) in 324 Lindquist Hall. It is an opportunity to meet faculty and learn about new courses, such as "Hoochie mamas and homeboys: male/female relationships in the black community," "Native American spirituality" and "Hate groups and hate crimes," being offered next semester.
The program will also offer presession classes in January for the first time, and will offer some courses, such as "Understanding Africa" and "Issues in minority health," that previously had been workshops.
The program, which is part of the School of Community Affairs, currently has 16 majors. However, some students also declare ethnic studies as a minor or as a second major.
