Our animated explainer videos break down some of the key principles that guide our work at the Othering & Belonging Institute. Follow the links below to view the videos, to read transcripts of the audio, and to learn more about each concept.
Structural Racism Explained
The “Structural Racism Explained” video (above) draws upon many varied sources in formulating specific definitions for different types of racism. The video and prompts provided in this video and teaching guide are designed primarily for teachers to help students clarify and sharpen their understanding of the material, spur and support classroom discussion of the video and ideas, and provide ideas and leads for further research. But the materials are also useful for people who work in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) spaces and local governments. Click here to check it out.
Circle of Human Concern
This video provides an overview of the traditional ways we look at space in the public and private spheres, and then offers an alternative we call the circle of human concern. Through the framework of belonging, the video explains how the spaces are divided, who has access to those spaces, and what we can do to change the dynamics so that all people—and not corporations—are at the center of the circle of human concern. Check it out here.
Targeted Universalism
Targeted universalism signals flawed policies that are either targeted policies or universal policies. Targeted universalism addresses the weaknesses and strengths of these two types of policies. In so doing, targeted universalism is conceptually and operationally different. This video explains the difference between targeted universalism and more traditional policy approaches. Watch the video here.
Bridging: Towards a Society Built on Belonging
This explainer gives a high-level snapshot of our analysis of bridging and breaking as possible responses in a period of social anxiety as a result of rapid changes occurring in a number of areas, including demographics, technology, the environment, and globalization. A "breaking" response sees these changes as a threat to our societies and cultures. A "bridging" response sees the changes an opportunity to enhance who we are. Learn more here.
We the People, not we the corporations
This animated short exposes how the unmitigated power of US corporations is bolstered by divide and conquer tactics wielded to distract from the harm these companies do to society and the environment—and generate enormous profits for the wealthy few. The video sheds light on how narratives of scarcity ("There aren't enough jobs for everyone," "We can't afford to pay a living wage," etc.) shield the public from seeing just how wide these corporate profit margins really are. Click here to learn more.
Shahidi: Corporations Decoded
The Shahidi Project (a Kiswahili word meaning witness) intends to demystify the power structures and capacities of transnational food and agricultural corporations within our food system. To accomplish this, we have developed a robust database focusing on ten of the largest food and agricultural corporations in the world. Access the video and database here.