Ohio State University Offers Dance Course on Interrupting Oppression in Performing Arts
Ohio State University is offering a three-credit course titled 'Introduction to Anti-Racism in the Performing Arts' through its Department of Dance. The course, taught by Professor of Afro-Contemporary Dance Charles Anderson, aims to build a foundation for anti-racist reflection and practice among artists, educators, and audiences. It examines how racism operates systemically, institutionally, and interpersonally within live and digital performing arts. Students are encouraged to consider their personal biases and identities, and the role of culture and society in perpetuating or interrupting oppression. The course is approved as a general education requirement under 'Race, Ethnicity and Gender Diversity' and can also fulfill the 'Literary, Visual and Performing Arts' requirement. This course is not new, having been offered multiple times since its announcement in 2023, including for spring 2024, fall 2024, and fall 2025. In 2023, the department also launched an 'Anti-Racism and Social Justice Education th...