Michael Eric Dyson

Michael Eric Dyson is a Georgetown University professor, New York Times bestselling author, and one of the most influential public intellectuals in America. His fearless commentary on race, social justice, politics, and culture has made him an essential voice in the national conversation about inequality, identity, and American democracy.

One of America’s Most Important Voices on Race and Culture

Dyson has authored more than 20 books including Tears We Cannot Stop: A Sermon to White America, What Truth Sounds Like, and Come Hell or High Water: Hurricane Katrina and the Color of Disaster. He has been named by Ebony magazine as one of the 100 Most Influential African Americans and has been a prominent commentator on MSNBC, CNN, and NPR. He holds a PhD from Princeton University and has taught at some of the nation’s most prestigious institutions including Georgetown, the University of Pennsylvania, and Columbia University.

Challenging Comfortable Assumptions

Dyson’s ability to blend rigorous scholarship with passionate advocacy and accessible prose makes complex social issues understandable and urgent. His presentations challenge comfortable assumptions, inspire difficult conversations, and provide the context leaders need to navigate America’s most pressing social issues. His keynotes deliver powerful insights on race, justice, and American culture, leadership in times of social change, the role of courage in addressing inequality, and building organizations and communities that actually work for everyone.

In Caricature: Racial Profiling & Its Impact on Black America

While America has made strides towards true equality amongst varying ethnic groups, there are still some glaring disparities. Recent events, including the arrest of Henry Gates Jr. in his own home, serve as a reminder that racial profiling still exists. Not only does profiling degrade entire groups of people, but it stifles growth and perpetuates negative stereotypes. In his keynote speech, “In Caricature: Racial Profiling and its Impact on Black America,” public intellectual and best-selling author Michael Eric Dyson will answer three central questions surrounding racial profiling and its impact on minority communities:

1. How are minority students responding
2. How should minorities respond and what are their responsibilities
3. What rights do we have

Other Topics Include:

Tears We Cannot Stop: A Sermon to White America

African American Influence on Pop Culture

Dr. King for the 21st Century

Martin Luther King Jr. & (African-) American Leadership in the 21st Century

Race, Racism & Race Relations in America