Using author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s famous TedTalk as a an anchor, NVCC’s Center for Racial Dialogue and Communal Transformation hosted a community conversation on May 28 aimed at recognizing and reflecting upon narratives relating to the pledge of allegiance and the U.S. Flag and how these narratives shape our beliefs and inform our behaviors. The conversation provided a platform for those not heard and encouraged further dialogue on the matter. In attendance were members of the NAACP of Greater Waterbury; the Waterbury Board of Education; NVCC students, faculty and staff; and members of the community. Nearly 30 attendees came to have a fruitful discussion on what the single story might be about patriotism.

The Center is led by three co-chairs from the College, Kathy Taylor, J.D., Associate Professor of Legal Studies and President of the NVCC Faculty Senate; Joseph Faryniarz, Ed.D., Professor of Biological Sciences; and Antonio Santiago, M.S., Dean of NVCC’s Danbury Campus. The mission of the Center is to support the college’s mission by facilitating courageous conversations, promoting positive change, and healing in NVCC’s community. The Center provides opportunities for students, faculty, staff, and community members to engage in respectful dialogue and learning opportunities concerning diversity and equity. The next event in the series will be held this fall.