Introducing OP Talks!
November 2020
We are now living into the eleventh month of this COVID-19 pandemic. Some states are taking excellent action to lower the number of cases and death. Others are in denial. Leaders across the nation are advocating for justice for Black and Brown bodies. Others are in denial. Some educational institutions are starting the academic year as safely as possible to protect the lives of educators and students. Others are in denial.
Every day, we are living in a more divided, unwieldy world.
We have a U.S. presidential election before us that presents a whole new level of unknowns.
And yet, we persevere! We arise every morning and continue to forge ahead, trusting in the bountifulness of the day. We find strength in numbers, as exemplified by the theological leaders in the academy who recently made public declarations of solidarity with our African American colleagues, students, and communities.
It is with this spirit of perseverance and affirmation that Open Plaza now brings you OP Talks. Our new series of video talks brings the resources and perspectives of theology and religious studies to bear on public and social issues affecting Latina/o communities and churches. We invite you to watch our inaugural OP Talk, “American Blindspot,” featuring sociology professors Dr. Gerardo Martí and Dr. Rodrigo Serrão.
Open Plaza will continue to work en conjunto, trusting that the blogs, podcasts, and OP Talks will spark new understandings and hopes. Our own hope is that this valuable content will help you forge ahead, even in the midst of the hardships. We offer a place where you can find resources and conversation partners, a place in which to become wise and gracious thinkers who create positive and life-giving changes in your life and in the lives of those you serve.
Blessings,
Rev. Joanne Rodríguez
Executive Director
Hispanic Theological Initiative
