Los Medanos College will host the third annual Future of Ethnic Studies Conference on April 17 in the Student Union, featuring student showcases, workshops and a keynote speech focused on community, activism and education.

The conference will include presentations of student work, a keynote speech by Dr. Irene Sanchez and workshops designed to encourage student empowerment through activism and solidarity, according to the conference website. Attendees can expect to learn more about the field of Ethnic Studies and its growing importance.

Previously held at Contra Costa College and Diablo Valley College, the conference will take place at Los Medanos College for the first time. This year’s event is sponsored by the LMC President’s Office, the Office of Equity and Inclusion and LMC Associated students. 

Ethnic studies professor Max Trujillo said the conference highlights the wide range of opportunities within the field.

“Many times when folks think about getting a degree in Ethnic Studies, for example, they may just want to become teachers. But there’s so much more you can do with an Ethnic Studies degree,” said Trujillo. “Now more than ever it’s important for us to understand we’re actually more connected than we think.”

LMC’s Ethnic Studies Department Chair Dr. Adrianna Simone will also speak at the event. Sharing a preview of her presentation centered on her personal “testimonio,” or witness account, of becoming an Ethnic Studies scholar.

 “I am going to share some information about my childhood, navigating my undergraduate and graduate degrees in more canonical fields, and how I ‘fell in love’ with Ethnic Studies,” Simone said. “I look forward to sharing my experiences in a Chicana and Chicano Studies Department, and the opportunities that such a degree can provide to our students.”

Students’ involvement will be a key focus of the conference. According to Trujillo, students enrolled in Ethnic Studies courses will present their research through poster displays and be available to answer questions.

“One thing I’m really excited to showcase is the work students have done,” said Trujillo.

The keynote speaker, Dr. Irene Sanchez, an assistant professor of Ethnic Studies at San Bernardino Valley College, will deliver an address titled “How Our Stories and Ethnic Studies Help Us Dream and Resist.” The presentation will explore themes of navigating oppressive systems, building community and creating spaces grounded in trust, mutual aid and care.

“You come with a desire to connect, and you leave filled with support, love, and knowledge,” Simone said. “This is a space for all our 4CD community members looking for opportunities to learn more about Ethnic Studies, to replenish the work that you do in Ethnic Studies, and to connect with students across the district,”

“In a time in which we are becoming more isolated from each other, the 4CD Ethnic Studies Summit connects us in community through a discipline that was founded by and for students of color.” she added.