Programs

Programs

NewsLitCamp: Highlights 2021

NewsLitCamp: Highlights 2021

, , , , Programs
The NewsLitCamp, hosted by the News Literacy Project, is an outreach program dedicated to providing educators with the latest tools and information that they need to equip their students in the fight against fake news.  This year, 15 reporters and staff members from CNN joined in, offering exclusive insight into the back door of the nation’s top rated cable news network. A useful delineation of terms was presented by John Silva, who directs education initiatives at the News Literacy Project.  “Fake news,” once a distinct term referring to completely fabricated information formatted like a news story, has been overused to the point of uselessness.  It has also taken on the tone of a slur used in disagreements of points of … Continued
COVID testing and prevention: What you need to know

COVID testing and prevention: What you need to know

, , , , outreach, Programs
With over nine million people infected and 231,988 dead, novel coronavirus 2019, abbreviated as COVID-19, is one of the deadliest diseases that the US has ever encountered.  The US has experienced almost 300,000 more unanticipated deaths this year than usual, with 200,000 of those deaths due to COVID-19.  It is imperative that all of us have the information we need to get tested in a timely fashion and to continue to work to mitigate our risk of catching and spreading this disease. Indiana offers free COVID-19 testing at 273 locations throughout the state, with five located in Wayne County.  In order to receive a test, you will need to register with either an Optum/LHI location or a community location.  This … Continued
Celebrating the Constitution and Your Right to Vote

Celebrating the Constitution and Your Right to Vote

, , Programs
September 17, 1787 – Thirty-nine of our founding fathers, delegates of the Constitutional Convention, signed and put into effect the United States Constitution. The Constitution outlines the “checks and balances” of our three branches of government: Judicial, Executive, and Legislative. That was 233 years ago, and we continue to celebrate that achievement with Constitution Day on September 17, 2020. The celebration first started in 1940, as the “I Am an American Day,” based on a resolution passed by Congress and President Franklin D. Roosevelt. It was observed on the third Sunday in May. In 1952, the name was changed to “Constitution Day” and moved to September 17th, to reflect the date it was originally signed back in 1787. In 2004, … Continued
Resources to Support an Everyday Approach to Fighting Racism

Resources to Support an Everyday Approach to Fighting Racism

, , outreach, Programs
“When the looting starts, the shooting starts.”  This deeply racist phrase reentered the public conscience last week after a series of protests surrounding the tragic and brutal death of George Floyd by Minneapolis police. The phrase dates to 1967, when Miami, FL police chief Walter Headley used it as part of a series of instructions to the police force in his city.  Its return is unwelcome, and yet understanding why it was said and what makes it racist can help all of us start a meaningful conversation on race and racism.  Here are a host of resources to help you learn about, cope with and combat the events of the past week. First, it is helpful to know that racism … Continued
Writing Partners

Writing Partners

, Library Resources, Matt Dilworth, Programs
Writing is one of the most valuable skills honed in college, and will pay dividends in any walk of life.  Good writing allows you to communicate compassionately and effectively, avoid ambiguity, and convey your ideas to others in a persuasive way.  From emails and memos around the office to sympathy letters in times of bereavement, your writing skill can directly help in a time of need. Beyond enhancing other life skills, though, you may wish to make a career out of writing.  This can take many different forms – from academic writing, to literature and poetry, to news reporting or blogging.  Many courses at IU East teach skills writers need.  The library, too, offers many resources to help you build … Continued