UofM's Hooks Institute to Host Panel Discussion on Economic Challenges Facing Black Men and Boys

February 7, 2019 - The Benjamin L. Hooks Institute for Social Change at the University of Memphis will host the lecture and panel discussion "Economic Challenges Facing Black Men and Boys: Beyond the Data to Lived Experience" Tuesday, Feb. 19, in the University Center Theatre. A reception will begin at 5:30 p.m. with a lecture at 6 p.m. A panel discussion of people working in Memphis to create and sustain prosperity for men and boys of color will follow. The event is co-sponsored by the UofM's School of Social Work and Division of Student Affairs, and by P3 Financial Group Inc. of Cordova.

This event is free and open to the public. Parking at $7 is available in the Zach Curlin parking garage.

Guest speaker Dr. William R. Emmons, assistant vice president and economist at the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis and lead economist with the Center for Household Financial Stability, will explore the data from the largest study in U.S. history on intergenerational economic challenges facing African American men and boys.

About the Research Study

Dr. Raj Chetty, a professor of economics at Harvard University, and his research team conducted the largest research study in U.S. history from extensive data on economic mobility of men and boys of color. The study concluded that black men and boys experienced downward economic mobility even if born into wealth. These findings have led to extensive debate and examinations about systemic society and institutional biases that limit achievement among this group.

About the Benjamin L. Hooks Institute for Social Change

The Benjamin L. Hooks Institute implements its mission of teaching, studying and promoting civil rights and social change through research, education and direct intervention programs. For 20 years, we have addressed disparities related to education, diversity and inclusion, economic mobility and civic engagement. To learn more about current initiatives, visit the Ben Hooks Institute for Social Change at memphis.edu/benhooks.

CONTACT

Nathaniel C. Ball | 901.678.3655 | ncball@memphis.edu