Co-Sponsored by Diversity Center and UIS Departments of Legal Studies, African-American Studies, and Public Health A panel discussion composed of thought leaders in their respective fields at UIS with the purpose of highlighting the Black Lives Matter Movement through the prism of Fredrick Douglass’ “West India Emancipation” speech of 1857. The event, as part of Black History Month, will highlight societal and legal institutional challenges that are faced today by African Americans. By illustrating their plight, this event hopes to build awareness to the struggles faced by at-risk populations in general, and African Americans specifically. Dr. Dorine Brand – Assistant Professor in the Department of Public Health at UIS Pastor Jerry Doss – Lead pastor of Abundant Faith Christian Center (AFCC) in Springfield and established a voice within the community serving on several boards Dr. Ty Dooley – Director of the MPA Program at UIS. Holds a Ph.D. in Public Policy from the University of Arkansas Tess Dooley – Visiting Instructor of Legal Studies in CPAA at UIS Tiffani Saunders – Instructor of Sociology and African American Studies at UIS