Ta-Nehisi Coates does not tend to pre-write his keynotes. He talks extemporaneously, forcefully, on the events of the day—sometimes, that literal day—and incorporates themes from his writing. Lately, his focus is on the systemic racism that is inseparable from the growth of the nation: the racist policies that have plundered black bodies, black property, and black lives for economic and social gain. How can we reconcile these acts, many of them ongoing, with the supposedly postracial country some claim we are moving towards?

Other related topics include the distressing series of murders of unarmed black people that has rocked the country and dominated headlines. What does it mean to occupy a black body in America? What rules and fears and hopes govern behavior? Coates does not offer a casual “snapshot,” does not provide easy answers, and does not dole out false hope. He engages audiences in a meaningful, historically-grounded, up-to-the-minute discussion on what it means to talk—really talk—about race today.

All Temple students, faculty and staff are eligible for one free ticket to attend Ta-Nehisi Coates's talk.

Tickets must be obtained at the Liacouras Center box office, which is open Monday - Friday, 10 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Tickets are available for pickup until Friday, Sept. 16.

Tickets for the general public will go on sale via the Liacouras Center on Sept. 19.