Hello Randy

I appreciate your post. I find that sensitivity to all human beings is important.  The recent murder of Mr. George Floyd placed more emphasis on the BLM movement/social issues.  I monitor the discussions closely to make sure there are no dialogs of adverse concern. If so I would diffuse those with factual and appropriate information. My students tend to be respectful and understanding to each other. Regarding the course material, there is rarely a diversion from the topic.  It would be great to encourage an open forum face to face once we are beyond this current pandemic.  I would work with students to establish a set of guidelines for class discussion, because their input is important. To make the discussion relevant, research suggests: 

• Connecting the topic with course material, including fundamental concepts and strategies for analysis and thoughtful reflection
• Increasing awareness about the topic by providing information that is not generally addressed in informal discussions
• Promoting critical thinking by helping students to understand the complexity of the issues
• Enhancing skills for dialogue that students can take into other venues
• Relating classroom discussion to the roles that students have as citizens within the university community and larger society

I welcome the opportunity to contribute in meaningful ways to eradicate social/race conflict through the medium of Godly love.

Regards

L. Fontenot