The University of Georgia, a predominately white institution, followed state and federal orders to rename and disband diversity, equity and inclusion programs and organizations. Several UGA students from different racial minority groups shared their experiences at a PWI and their reactions to the cutting of university-related DEI programs.
Reporting video package for social media
Excerpt from the Historic Athens Porchfest coverage I wrote:
The first rain in almost two weeks threatened Historic Athens Porchfest hours before the outdoor festival began, but a light breeze and blue sky dispersed the clouds before Sunday’s event was halfway over.
First-time host Shawn Baker smiled as the sum emerged, although he was prepared for rain with a new carport to protect performers and their equipment.
“It was easy, it’s fun, it’s nice, it’s good to support the Porchfest event,” he said. “We’ve been attending Porchfest for at least three or four years now … and we’re thrilled to be part of hosting.”
There were 262 performances across seven neighborhoods from 1-7 p.m., spanning genres from rock to jazz to indie to country, according to the Porchfest website.
Baker indicated on the host-band matching form that he was open to anybody and was paired with Mannequin Party, an Athens-based indie band.
Lead singer and guitarist Spencer Paul returned to Porchfest for the third time, but his first time with a full band.
“I like playing music by myself, but there’s something about being part of a unit and doing something greater than you could ever do alone,” he said. “You’ve got people like Shawn that are offering their spaces for no compensation, just to help strengthen the community … I really like it."