HSOC-330: The Evolution of Civil Rights

In this class we will cover what are your rights as an individual, as a member of a group, and even more specifically as an artist, designer and/or author. We will look at how these rights are articulated in the law and in social practice, and will look at how we got those rights. Guest lecturers, films and music will help us see how art, music, literature, poetry and activism lead to obtaining these civil rights. We'll also look at the threats and limitations to these rights in courts, in cities, in the workplace and in public and in private. As part of our discussions we will talk about civil rights in other countries and the current struggles around the world, and of course, at home. Course assignments will include reading articles, choices of books and poetry, watching and reviewing movies, listening to music from the formation of the United States until now all on the topic of defining, fighting for, defending and protecting the rights of individuals, minorities and groups in public and in private.