Bakersfield College hosted its second Renegade Roundtable of the fall semester at the Levan Center on Nov. 15.
The 1.5-hour forum consisted of four BC faculty members, Reggie Williams, Javier Llamas, Savannah Andrasian, and Matthew Maddex, who discussed the topic of “wokeness” and how the label is used today.
Williams opened the floor with a friendly reminder that civil discourse was accepted and encouraged as it was the purpose of all Renegade Roundtable forums, emphasizing that the topic of discussion was not the nature of a lecture.
Maddex first defined “wokeness” and outlined where the term historically originated. He explained that the terminology was also used at a time that described the consciousness of the country during the civil war.
Maddex also referenced the Stay Woke Act in Florida and mentioned Ron Desantis’ significant role in defining and weaponizing the label “woke” to paint the LGBT community negatively.
Several members of the audience participated in the discussion as well. One voiced their opinion on the term “Latinx” and how most members of the Latino community do not agree with the terminology. Another audience member expressed his opinion on whether large corporations indirectly benefit black communities.
Lastly, a woman who identified herself as a Lebanese refugee in the audience shed light on her first-hand perspective about her family’s struggle transitioning to the United States. She described leaving her life behind as a refugee and coming from a culture where men have autonomy over women’s health.
Disney was also discussed in terms of how the film industry continues to marginalize minority communities.
Llamas chimed in with regards to opportunities for minority groups. “I would be happier if Disney sought out Black people, Hispanic people, Native American heroes and the stories about them, with the people communities that have a story.”
Williams closed the evening by thanking those who participated. He concluded that this was the final forum of the fall semester. The next Renegade Roundtable forum will take place in Spring 2024.