RIGHTS, RESISTANCE and RELEVANCE: A Current Events Dean’s Discussion
April 9 at 2:30 pm to 4:00 pm
Please join the CSUN College of Social and Behavioral Sciences for a compelling panel discussion that explores recent Supreme Court decisions, voting rights, and social resistance in today’s political landscape. Moderated by Dean Yan Searcy, this interactive event brings together a distinguished panel of CSUN faculty experts to engage students in critical current events and meaningful dialogue.
When and Where:
Thursday, April 9, 2026
2:30PM until 4:00PM
Whitsett Room | Sierra Hall, Room 451
Panelists include:
- Professor Ana M. Pereira-Prata (Sociology) is a long-time faculty member whose sociological insights shed light on social structures and civic life at local and global scales.
- Assistant Professor Jessennya Hernandez (Sociology) is committed to student-centered teaching and scholarship that examines race and racialization, gender and sexuality, and movements for social justice. Her work draws on transnational and decolonial feminism, Black feminist thought, women of color feminisms, and queer theory to explore how communities organize, resist, and advocate for equity and political voice. Born and raised in the Inland Empire as the child of Mexican immigrants, she brings both scholarly and lived insight to conversations about rights, representation, and collective action. She also organizes with Black and Brown grassroots mutual aid collectives.
- Professor Donal B. O’Sullivan (History) is a historian with deep expertise in international relations and historical context that enriches understanding of institutional power and civic engagement.
The discussion will open with brief remarks from the panel, followed by an extended interactive Q&A, giving students the opportunity to engage directly, ask questions, and explore the issues more deeply. Expect a dynamic and thought-provoking conversation.
Requesting Accommodations
The CSUN College of Social and Behavioral Sciences is committed to making its events accessible to everyone. If you require an accommodation or service to fully participate, please let us know. Note: If you require an ASL interpreter, please contact us no later than five working days prior to the event. To request accommodations, please contact Jacqueline Edwards at 818-677-3317 or via email at ashley.rice@csun.edu.
