Title

Convocation 2021: Opening Remarks

Authors

José M. Torres, Illinois Math and Science AcademyFollow

Document Type

Speech

Publication Date

8-17-2020

Streaming Media

Description

This is not a drill! This is not a drill! Remote working, distance learning, COVID-19; the killing of Black people; a downturn in the economy and record unemployment rates are among our current realities. This is not a drill! This is real life!

Is there a way to make sense of the new normal, the emotional toll, the lost lives, the continued hatred and racism, and the unbearable injustice we are experiencing in 2020?

My remarks today are about our current realities and about hope. Now, I know I ought to stay away from controversy and kick-off the new year with positive remarks at convocation, remarks that bring comfort to everyone. It’s barely 9 in the morning, after all!

Comments

Direct links for PowerPoint videos:

• Ain a That Good News - https://youtu.be/e-VCsVklSIc
• James Baldwin quote - https://youtu.be/xgQCGjtcW70
• John Lewis - https://youtu.be/YDqQJJDFit8
• Most Searched - https://youtu.be/_M_7Dw67w6U

Recommended Citation

Torres, José M., "Convocation 2021: Opening Remarks" (2020). Keynotes, Speeches, and Lectures. 19.
https://digitalcommons.imsa.edu/pres_addresses/19