Kirkwood Community College professor Jed Peterson shared insights on solidarity and allyship during the Academy for Scholastic and Personal Success’s Critical Conversations panel.
The monthly panel serves as a community discussion forum and is open to all ages. This meeting centered on the question “What challenges do we face, now that we are here?” and June Jordan’s poem “We Are the Ones We Have Been Waiting For.”
The panel featured community leaders with backgrounds ranging from education to crisis intervention.
The discussion of Jordan’s poem invited audience members to reflect on their roles in strengthening the local community against divisive forces.
Participants raised difficult questions about the current state of the country, including how communities can protect neighbors during mass deportations and racial profiling, and what actions are possible when voting feels insufficient and danger feels imminent. The conversation remained open and earnest throughout the evening.
In a conversation following the event, Peterson emphasized the importance of local action and community building. “Start small. If there’s something you’re passionate about, things you are good at—start there,” he said.
“Remember, you don’t have to do everything. Do what you know you can, and then start challenging yourself to do more,” he added.
The Academy for Scholastic and Personal Success offers academic programs, three of which are tailored for students.
More information is available at theacademysps.com.
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