A presentation by Clyde W. Ford
Saturday February 8, 6 p.m., Orcas Library
— from Mary Pugh for Orcas Library —
From hand gestures to tattoos to code-words, author and scholar, Clyde W. Ford, examines the signs, symbols, and signals of hate. He discusses their historical and cultural significance, laying bare the prevalence of hate-filled imagery in our culture.
Most are familiar with racist epithets, such as the “N” word, or hateful symbols, such as a swastika. But few are aware of the extensive lexicon of modern signs, symbols, and signals of hate that exist within various subcultures in the US, and around the world.
In this informative presentation, author and scholar, Clyde W. Ford, examines the dog-whistles and cat-calls of hate that anyone may encounter in the news, on the Internet, or in the street. From hand gestures to tattoos to code-words, Clyde discusses the historical and cultural significance of these signs, symbols, and signals, and where possible presents related images.
Ford’s presentation, which lays bare the prevalence of hate-filled imagery in our culture, is meant to inform, heighten awareness, and keep ordinary citizens safe.
This presentation is appropriate for all ages.
Clyde Ford’s newest book is Think Black, A Memoir. In this thought-provoking and heartbreaking memoir, the award-winning writer tells the story of his father, John Stanley Ford, the first black software engineer in America, revealing how racism insidiously affected his father’s view of himself and their relationship.
I look forward to this presentation; we are lucky to have him come and educate us.
It pains me that these groups manage to take neutral words and symbols and turn them into badges of hate and dog whistles to the like-minded.