Why do you smile so much? | Dr Matthew Whitaker | TEDxPhoenixCollege

“Why do you smile so much?” I’ve fielded this question more than I can recall, but I’ve always remembered the derisive, non-verbal, micro-aggressive rebukes that come with it. Society often treats those who smile, especially in the face of persecution and struggle, as village idiots. Why would anyone smile amid racism, sexism, homophobia, xenophobia, able-ism, and religious intolerance? I smile as an act of self-love and resistance. The many struggles that I have overcome, were surmounted with self-care—self-care that began with the simple act of affirming the humanity of others, and my own worth, with a grin. Matthew is an award-winning educator, author, community engagement specialist, motivational speaker, and founder the Center for the Study of Race and Democracy, winner of the 2014 Arizona Diversity Leadership Alliance (DLA) Inclusive Workplace Award, at Arizona State University, where is was a professor of history for 15 years. Most recently he was given DLA’s 2016 Diversity and Inclusion Leader Award. He specializes in U.S. history, African American history and life, race relations, social movements, cultural competency, equity and inclusion, teaching excellence, and community partnerships. Dr. Whitaker is the author of Race Work: The Rise of Civil Rights in the Urban West. His forthcoming memoir is The Undisputed Truth: A Revolutionary Journey to Black Manhood. He has spoken throughout the world, including Australia, Canada, China, Czech Republic, England, Ghana, and Ireland. Twitter at @Dr_Whitaker and DSC can be followed on Twitter at @dstategiesllc. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx