MN ACS 2022 Awards Meeting

Date: Thursday, September 8, 2022

Venue:  Bad Weather Brewing Company, 414 7th St W, St. Paul, MN 55102 (651-207-6627)

Social & Pizza Dinner (includes 2 tickets for drinks, Pizza, Salad, Fruit Salad and cookies/bars) - 5:30 pm - 7 pm

Presentation entitled Chemistry and Chemistry Education Without Justice and Justice Education is a Single Story - Dr. Angela N. Osuji of Washburn High School - 7 pm - 8:00 pm

Abstract  - Science as a discipline provides us with an exciting pathway to knowledge. Science as a human endeavor gave us the framework and language to seek, understand, and explain the natural world. The Framework for K-12 Science Education (p277) urges us to promote scientific literacy among all the nation’s people as a democratic ideal worthy of focused attention, significant resources, and continuing effort. Science and science education aimed at explaining phenomena and designing solutions must aim for science for all anchored in justice for all. Justice-centered science pedagogy addresses inequities as components of larger oppressive systems.

Chemistry as science enjoys the unique identity as the gateway into other science disciplines and into many STEM careers. Conversely, certain practices in chemistry education also act as the gatekeeper for many. In doing so, Chemistry becomes a pathway to systemic inequities that cause systemic harm. Chemistry education, therefore, has a responsibility to deconstruct this systemic harm.

However, I posit that chemistry and chemistry education devoid of justice and/or justice education is a single story. It is incomplete. It is a disservice to our students and society. There should be and there is room at the Chemistry table for ALL. My presentation will focus on some of my efforts in advocating for Justice -centered science education for all my students and my journey in developing my capacity as a justice-centered chemistry educator in Minnesota.

Cost - $10/person. Please pay on arrival. (50, 60 and 70 years members who are being honored in this meeting and their spouses don't need to pay).