Shop Talk is a monthly discussion series held by The Public Square and the Institute for Research on Race and Public Policy at the University of Illinois at Chicago. Building on our efforts to bridge the university and the community, “Shop Talk” will bring UIC scholars to Ron’s Barber Shop (6058 W. North Ave), in the heart of Chicago’s Austin neighborhood on theShop Talk discussion (4/2/2010) last Friday of every month from January to June 2010.  

• See photos from past events.

Amid haircuts and fades, people from all walks of life—scholars, barbers, customers, and community members—will grapple with hard issues ranging from gender violence and immigration to criminal justice and access to health care. Based on the findings of their own research, scholars will discuss the connections between race, ethnicity, and public policy.

What people are saying about Shop Talk…

"A lot of people in this community may not have the opportunity to talk to scholars at UIC. This will give scholars and the community a chance to hear different views than what they’re used to about some very sensitive topics and issues. And definitely, here at Ron’s Barber Shop, we don’t have a problem talking.” -  Ron Gibson, owner and barber at Ron’s Barber Shop.

"By creating and fostering community sites of learning, we seek to share experiences, research, and knowledge. Scholarship and the exchange of ideas shouldn’t be limited to the university. Through 'Shop Talk,' we are building community and empowering ourselves to become shapers of history.” - Alice Kim, Director of The Public Square, a program of the Illinois Humanities Council.

Shop Talk (January 29, 2010)"The classroom is not the only place where powerful learning and debate can happen.  We’re looking forward to sharing ideas, exploring what research means for improving daily life in Chicago, and learning from Shop Talk!" – Kevin Kumashiro Co-Director of the Institute for Research on Race & Public Policy at UIC.

For more information about this exciting partnership, email thepublicsquare@prairie.org or call 312.422.5580.