One Book, One College - Between the World and Me

Publish Date: Nov. 23, 2021

One Book, One College is a college-wide reading initiative intended to bring together the campus community through the reading of a common book focused on equity and inclusion. This year’s book, Between the World and Me, asks us to reimagine the boundaries of fear, hope, and racial inequality. Written as a letter to his teenage son, Between the World and Me describes Ta-Nehisi Coates’ experience of being Black in America. The book explores issues of race, racism, justice, education, fear, relationships, identity, and diversity.

The One Book, One College task force, in collaboration with the Professional Development committee, organized a series of events to encourage conversation, creativity, and community. In 2018, Coates transformed his book Between the World and Me to the theatrical stage. On Oct 20 CHC provided a virtual screening of the HBO Special adaptation of that production, which included celebrity readings, clips from participants, civil rights archival footage, and animation.

In addition, three hosted discussions explored the black body, fear, and the value of diversity. Dialogue centered around how our identities and experiences shape our perceptions and the systemic challenges that create barriers.

The book will be incorporated into student activities throughout the spring semester.