Why Minor in EthnicStudies?

ETHN minors provide an interdisciplinary investigation of the origins, experiences, conditions, accomplishments, and contributions of people of color in the Americas. The program is designed for all students who want to deepen their understanding of difference in America’s past and present.  Students are challenged to think about race, culture and social representation from different perspectives.  We draw particularly from history, literature, sociology, anthropology, psychology, and art.

A minor in ETHN will deepen your ability to listen to the perspectives of others.  With a better understanding of their point of view, you will be better able to communicate your own views in a meaningful way.  An ETHN minor will also make you more aware and respectful of differences in your community and the way that diversity has shaped the American experience.  These skills will help to prepare you for employment in education, government, legislation, international business and marketing, urban planning, counseling and social work, the media, and many other fields.

When State University of New York at Fredonia hosted “Wrapped in Pride,” an exhibit about kente cloth, Dr. Joseph Adjaye (right), University of Pittsburg, gave a lecture about kente’s cultural significance.  Above, Adjaye used Tom Morrissey, professor emeritus, History, to model the proper way for men to wear kente cloth.

Above: State University of New York at Fredonia’s master drumming students provide the background for authentic Ghanaian dance under the leadership of Bernard Woma (fourth from the left, wearing kente).  Soon, students joined in the dancing (below).