As part of Drake University’s Communicating Across Difference series, we invite you to reflect on what it means to engage in open, honest, and respectful dialogue—especially when we disagree.
Spotlight: Uncensored by Zachary Wood
In Uncensored: My Life and Uncomfortable Conversations at the Intersection of Black and White America, Zachary Wood shares his journey from growing up in Washington, D.C. to leading “Uncomfortable Learning,” a student group at Williams College that welcomed controversial speakers.
When he visited Drake for the 2019 Sussman Leadership Conference, Wood challenged us to:
- Move beyond ideological echo chambers
- Listen with empathy
- Confront our own biases with courage
His message echoes Drake’s values of curiosity, respect, and dialogue grounded in integrity.
Like Wood’s memoir, here’s another piece worth reading: Truth Matters by Cornel West and Robert P. George.
Despite holding very different beliefs, West and George model how authentic friendship and truth-seeking can flourish amid disagreement. Their dialogue reminds us that understanding doesn’t require uniformity of thought.
Why this matters:
Together, these works embody Drake’s Statement of Principles:
“An environment of open inquiry and mutual respect where freedom of expression and civil discourse are central to the pursuit of truth.”
Each of us has a role in creating spaces where dialogue can challenge, enlighten, and unite us.
Take the next step
- Read Uncensored or Truth Matters and reflect on your own experiences engaging across difference.
- Want a free copy? Email me (while supplies last).
- Explore more:
- TED Talks with Zachary Wood
- Truth Matters: Fruitful Disagreement in an Age of Division
Let’s keep building a campus culture where disagreement leads not to division – but to deeper understanding and shared growth.
— Jerry Parker, Vice President & Dean of Students
