A new center will open its doors at the Xavier University of Louisiana to research and study various issues related to inequities based on race, power relations and social identity production.
The Center for Equity, Justice, and the Human Spirit will also support and promote innovative thinking in various disciplines in the context of class, race and systematic inequities.
“We are pleased to announce the creation of The Center for Equity, Justice, and the Human Spirit which will serve as an anchor, a magnet, and a beacon reflecting and furthering our calling, as a Historically Black and Catholic university, to help create a more just and humane society,” Xavier University President Reynold Verret said.
“We envision that it will become a cornerstone for individuals and groups seeking to elaborate new theories and verify others by studying and advocating and beyond, engaging in empirically verifiable social change work.”
David W. Robinson-Morris, who will serve as the director of the center, called it a vibrant and critical research, teaching, and public engagement space.
He said, “At this moment in our nation’s history, the Center for Equity, Justice, and the Human Spirit at Xavier is a vital catalyst and conduit of critical dialogue, research, policy advocacy, and community convening. We seek to be an agent of social change aimed at raising awareness and assisting in solving systemic injustices, inequities, and issues that vex the human spirit.”
“As the only historically Black and Catholic institution of higher learning in the country, we are aptly poised to address the issues of the day through the lens of a faith tradition that seeks to do justice. Justice is how love shows itself in the public sphere,” he added.
Housed on the university campus, the center will also organize various lectures, conferences, and seminars, bringing together stakeholders on a common platform.
