The 1619 Project allowed me to question my own biases and assumptions concerning race in America.

Featuring Joshua Swank one of the four finalists in the 1619 Project video series and a third-year political science major at UC Irvine.

My name is Joshua Swank, I’m a third-year political science major at UC Irvine. As a political science student, I’ve always been interested in public policy and the relationship between citizens and their government officials. Luckily, I was exposed to several insightful classes on campus which prompted me to learn about political theory and law. I credit Professors Kristen Monroe and Keith Topper, as well as my contacts at the Olive Tree Initative for helping me grow as a scholar and individual. Of course, my parents have helped tremendously. Specifically, my Father’s service to our country in the military and federal government, not to mention my Mother’s devotion to local community service, volunteerism, and education continue to inspire me in new ways every day. I am proud to be their son.

I got involved with the 1619 Project through the Deconstructing Diversity Initative—a program at UCI which investigates issues relating to race, ethnicity, identity, and more. Currently, I am working on an undergraduate research paper exploring the writings of James Baldwin and prominent black nationalists like Elijah Muhammad and Malcolm X. The project aims to uncover new formulations and perspectives regarding American national identity—a goal which seems especially prescient given the current division and civil discord felt throughout the United States. In this sense, the 1619 Project felt like a natural extension of my academic interests and allowed me to question my own biases and assumptions concerning race in America. I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the larger discussion surrounding this project and hope that others will take a more nuanced approach to American history moving forward.

View Joshua's video here.https://youtu.be/aHP9cy9YhGM