On a recent episode of WGBH’s Basic Black host Callie Crossley was joined by four experts—including Traci Parker, associate professor in the W.E.B. Du Bois Department of Afro-American Studies—to celebrate and discuss Black love, relationships, and rituals in honor of Valentine's Day. The episode explored the history of the Black family and how that history has shaped and impacted modern relationships. Contemporary issues, such as mass incarceration, legislation, and economic prosperity, were discussed in the context of how they affect the Black family.

In March, the UMass Amherst Department of Music and Dance will host two virtual conferences exploring new approaches and applications for the field of dance.

Ajla Aksamija, an associate professor in the department of architecture, co-organized a free, online workshop for architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) industry professionals. The workshop was held over four days in January 2021 (Jan. 6, 8, 13 and 15) and brought together more than 270 registered participants from all over the world. Each session lasted 1.5 hours and the professionals gained continuing education credits that are required by professional accreditation institutions around the world.

The 28th annual Massachusetts Multicultural Film Festival (MMFF) explores the power and promise of “Alliances,” presenting an international program of documentary, narrative and experimental films from the United States, Puerto Rico, Iran, France, Egypt, Brazil and South Korea, that offer compelling visions of connection with people, ecologies and ideas. With an eye to the shadow side of alliances—flawed or failed alliances, or misguided or malign confederacies—the films this season address themes of community, solidarity, and partnerships for social justice, environmental advocacy, and other endeavors to achieve a common good or confront a prevailing ill. Join us this spring in a celebration of films that spark empathy, bridge difference, and inspire dedication to dreams held in common.

The Tasso in Music Project, directed by department of music and dance professor Emiliano Ricciardi, has received Honorable Mention in the Renaissance Society of America's Digital Innovation Award Competition.

Daniel Gordon, professor and honors program director in the Department of History, was recently named co-editor in chief of the journal Society.