Disco Remixed – A Restorative History

For 7^th-12^th grade educators 

This workshop is a guided re-examination of the dominant narratives of disco music and the dance genres that grew out of it, including Chicago House, Detroit Techno and Acid Jazz. Educators will look at the creative output and the activism of Black and LGBTQI+ activists and artists Sylvester, Jean-Michel Basquiat, Marsha P. Johnson, Sylvia Rivera, Grace Jones, and Frankie Knuckles, and consider the ways and reasons that some narratives and voices are elevated while others are erased. As we revisit a transformative moment in popular culture with a fresh lens, we will explore ways to teach critical thinking skills to our students for use in the classroom and real-life. The ​workshop will also feature a​ pre-recorded conversation with DJ Lynnée Denise reflecting on Blackness and queerness in the context of disco and dance music.

Presented in partnership with TeachRock/Rock and Roll Forever Foundation 

Imani Wilson is Director of Media and Culture Strategy at TeachRock/ Rock and  Roll Forever Foundation. She taught music in the public schools of New York and New Orleans, and was led music performance programs in community arts settings. Her research and writing focus on the sacred song/dance traditions of Global Africa

1.5 Illinois Clock Hours