Reach Out Wisconsin
Esquire Club 1025 N. Sherman Ave., Madison, Wisconsin 53704
press release: What is Race?
Scientists now generally agree that there is no biological basis for the division of human beings into races - race is a misconception based on superficial physical and cultural differences that have developed over a relatively short period of human history. However, 53% of Americans agreed, in a 2018 Northwestern University/23&Me survey, with statements that biology “totally” or “somewhat” determines racial identity. Confusing the issue are (1) claims by a few journalists and scientists that recent genomic research supports the concept of race, (2) efforts by some pharmaceutical companies to market “race-specific” drugs, and (3) popular DNA-based ancestry services that assign racial categories.
We’ll try to sort through the confusion with the help of Joan Fujimura, UW-Madison professor of sociology. Dr. Fujimura teaches and studies a wide range of topics dealing with the sociology and genetics of race, with a recent focus on genomics and healthcare.
Please stay for discussion after the talks and question period. This event is free and open to the public.
Reach Out Wisconsin is a nonpartisan group dedicated to fostering respect and understanding in Wisconsin politics. In an era when the left and the right seem so divided, we want to reach out to each other. We promote: a respectful dialogue between opposing sides of political debates; a more nuanced understanding of political issues by learning new perspectives; and more respectful attitude towards people with opposing viewpoints.