University of Richmond chooses Black Lives Matter memoir as the next One Book, One Richmond selection

May 21, 2018

The University of Richmond has selected “When They Call You A Terrorist: A Black Lives Matter Memoir” by Black Lives Matter co-founder, Patrisse Khan-Cullors, and asha bandele for its common reading selection for the 2018-19 academic year.

“Khan-Cullors weaves the themes of poverty, race, the criminal justice system and activism throughout this memoir,” said Holly Blake, associate dean for outreach education and development. “The book reveals how and why Khan-Cullors committed her own life as an artist and activist to addressing issues that disproportionately affect communities of color.”

One Book, One Richmond is a campus-wide effort that encourages students, faculty, staff and members of the Richmond community to read and discuss a selected book on a social justice issue. Past selections have examined nationalism, mass incarceration, food insecurity and poverty.

“We are hopeful that conversations about the book link to conversations about our continued efforts to foster a thriving and inclusive community,” said Adrienne Piazza, One Book, One Richmond committee chair. “Our campus community will engage in a year-long, campus-wide dialogue related to the book, a dialogue that spans curricular and co-curricular spaces.” 

One Book, One Richmond is led by the Bonner Center for Civic Engagement with a committee of students, faculty and staff representing all five academic schools as well as departments across campus. One Book programming will take place throughout the academic year. A schedule will be announced at a later date.

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