In this second presentation in a three-part conversation, Professor Mae Ngai will discuss ethnic studies. In 1996, Columbia students staged a hunger strike and occupied Hamilton Hall, demanding an ethnic studies department. The Center for the Study of Ethnicity and Race was established in 1998; it is the only academic unit at Columbia formed out of student protest. Mae M. Ngai GSAS'98, the Lung Family Professor of Asian American Studies and Professor of History, will explore the questions "Why ethnic studies? Why is CSER still not a full department? What’s the ongoing role of student activism?"

Please Note: This event will be virtual.