The UMass Center of Racial Justice and Youth Engaged Research and the College of Education will host a book talk and signing with Dr. Justin A. Coles on Thursday, February 5, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM at Carney Family Auditorium and The Hub, UMass Amherst College of Education, 813 N. Pleasant Street, Amherst. The event celebrates Coles’ first book, Resisting Antiblackness in Education: A Pedagogy of Black Youth Aesthetics.
In the talk, Coles draws on a decade of collaborative work with Black youth to show how their artistic and cultural practices can inform more just approaches to education. Attendees will explore Black youth aesthetics, student voice, and classroom strategies grounded in care and creativity. The evening includes the talk, a book signing, and a reception with food, drinks, and a live DJ. The event is open to the public and welcomes students, educators, and community members.
Registration is requested to help organizers plan seating and books for signing. Scan the event QR code or visit the UMass College of Education event page for details.
