"Racism in the 21st Century" Is Discussion Topic in Mount Vernon on Wednesday, November 11

Purchase NY, November 6, 2015 -- Racism is an important part of American history and our nation’s current social and political landscape. A timely interactive presentation and discussion titled “Racism in the 21st Century, How Does It Look and Where Do We Go from Here?” is being sponsored by the African Studies Program of Manhattanville College and the Unity Baptist Tabernacle Church on Nov. 11 at 6:30 PM. The free event takes place at the church, 101 South Second Ave, in Mount Vernon.

“In the 21st century racism is a real disease that continues to affect us all,” says James E. Jones, Associate Professor of World Religions at Manhattanville. “Therefore it is very important for people who are concerned about humanity to come together to discuss its impact now and possible impact our collective future.”

The community-based discussion will feature several nationally known experts:

· Dr. Sherryl Brown Graves, an expert on children’s understanding of racial and ethnic portrayals in the mass media, as well as Professor of Psychological Foundations and acting Senior Associate Dean at Hunter College;

· The Reverend Edward Mulraine, pastor of Unity Church and a civil rights advocate, lecturer, business owner and author of books and articles; and

· James E. Jones, Associate Professor of World Religions and of African Studies at Manhattanville College. He appears frequently in the media and is often invited to speak about religion, Islam, African American studies, and diversity in the United States and abroad.

· Tashae Smith, a junior honor student at Manhattanville College, will serve as the moderator.

About Manhattanville College:

Manhattanville College (www.manhattanville.edu) is an independent, co-educational liberal arts institution dedicated to academic excellence and social and civic action. Manhattanville prepares students to be ethical and socially responsible leaders in a global community. Located just 30 minutes from New York City, Manhattanville serves 1,700 undergraduate students and 1,000 graduate students from more than 50 countries and 30 states. Founded in 1841, the College offers more than 50 undergraduate areas of study in the arts and sciences, and offers graduate programs in Education, Business, Creative Writing, as well as Continuing and Executive Education programs.