New College Professor Queen Zabriskie Creates Powerful Conversations About Race
“To be able to do this work is an honor, a joy and a responsibility.”
By Allison Forsyth
The New College Black history program, which also brings local high school students to campus, has grown to include Black literature readings, discussion forums, film screenings and talks from Black artists, scientists, writers and entrepreneurs. “We talk about all issues Black people face, around the world, to help not create this monolithic image of blackness,” says Zabriskie.
Especially now, when American society has been shaken by events that have exposed the depth of racism, Zabriskie is focused on building relationships, allowing people to listen to one another and understand their common humanity. Her work extends beyond the college to Blacks in Sarasota at the Peace Education and Action Center, where she helped create an Anti-Racism Working Group, and the Multicultural Health Institute with founder Dr. Lisa Merritt. Residents join workshops focusing on racism in schools, internalized racism and health disparities minorities face, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic.
“To be able to do this work is an honor, a joy and a responsibility,” says Zabriskie. “When I think about where my family has come from, and what so many have invested in me, I’m grateful to invest in others.”