Episode Three: “Breaking Generational Curses”
Duration: 18:27 | May 6, 2025
Voices of I Am New Orleans is excited to dive into Dillard University’s Center for Racial Justice (CRJ), where students Lucine and Raven are creating systemic change in communities of color. From organizing campus-wide discussions to planning social justice projects, these passionate students are making space for meaningful dialogue and action. Joined by the CRJ’s Program Manager, Tia Suggs, this episode unpacks how Lucine and Raven’s involvement with the program has impacted their lives and ability to help those in their communities through purposeful advocacy.
Episode 3 titled “Breaking Generational Curses” looks into how the Center for Racial Justice is dedicated to changing how people of color are policed through community building, partnerships, and education, using relevant resources and opportunities.
Generational Justice: Breaking Cycles Through Student Engagement
- 49.5% of students cited “not knowing how to get started” as the second biggest obstacle in participating in community engagement.
- First-generation college students spend less time on extracurriculars than their continuing-generation peers.
- Studies have shown that college student involvement is positively related to academic performance, cognitive development, well-being, leadership, and multicultural awareness.
- 28% of students reported “activism or being involved in my community” as the top benefit of campus involvement.
- College students’ awareness of social justice issues has increased since 2022, and 65% agree that their support has an impact and helps drive change.
- This is where Dillard’s Center for Racial Justice comes in: the CRJ is creating socially conscious leaders who champion equity and drive positive change in society through internship and scholarship opportunities.
Digging Deeper: Reflection Questions
- What part of this conversation did you connect with most, and why?
- Was there anything that surprised, confused, or made you think differently about the opportunities available to young people to advocate for their community?
- Have you ever wanted to start a similar organization on your campus, like the CRJ? What support would you need to get started?
- Can you think of a time when you felt passionate about a cause and wanted to make a difference, but didn’t act because you didn’t know where to start? What barriers kept you from taking that step, and what resources or support would make it easier for you to take action?
- What part of Lucine and Raven’s story stood out most, and why? How have their stories inspired you to take action for your community?
Pathways to Education and Equity
Grantee Spotlight
Dillard University’s Center for Racial Justice (CRJ) engages the local community, city leaders, organizations, and youth to increase social and racial injustice awareness. The CRJ is committed to nurturing the next generation of young change advocates who are passionate about changing how people of color are policed. With a focus on education, activism, and community engagement, the CRJ strives to create socially conscious leaders who champion equity and drive positive societal change. Learn more at dillard.edu.