Afropessimism isn’t just a theory about Black life; it’s a tool for understanding the structures of oppression that affect everyone. At its core, Afropessimism reveals why Black people in the U.S. and around the world are often treated as second-class citizens. But it goes beyond race—it also sheds light on the persistence of antisemitism, showing how these systems of hate and exclusion are deeply interconnected. In exploring these dynamics, Afropessimism helps us understand how both racism and antisemitism are rooted in similar historical and social structures, and why fighting for a multiracial democracy is key to dismantling all forms of oppression. This class will explore how these ideas can help us build a future of justice for everyone.

Jordan Berg Powers (he/him) is currently a PhD Student at Brandeis University Heller School Institute of Economic and Racial Equity. He is the former Executive Director of Mass Alliance. In his 13 years there, he has helped elect new leaders across the state, recruited candidates to run, and trained hundreds of grassroots organizers. In 2015, Jordan was recognized for his exceptional work in politics as an inaugural inductee into the 40 under 40 Poly Award. Using his expertise in talking to ordinary voters about progressive policy was critical in passing ballot initiatives in Massachusetts for a progressive millionaire's tax, a ballot initiative to save public education, and the first guaranteed paid time off in the country. He conducted trainings across the country on understanding power, organizing, statewide ballot initiatives, progressive messaging, and adding diversity in politics.

As a broad coalition of 29 political and advocacy organizations with different sizes, organizational structures, and focus issues, Jordan knitted together these disparate groups to build a powerful, cohesive table dedicated to making Massachusetts more just.

Currently, Jordan is consulting national organizations on Executive Director support, organizing, politics, messaging, and best practices for integrating DEIB into organizational work.

Jordan serves as a Zoning Board Commissioner for the City of Worcester. He is also on the board of JOIN for Justice, Disability Policy Consortium, Partners in Democracy, Jewish Alliance for Law and Social Action (JALSA), Committee for Social Action for the Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism (RAC), Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC) - Boston Area, Teen Just-Us, and the Jewish Liberation Fund; he is also on the advisory committee for the RAC Massachusetts.

Jordan has a Masters in International Politics from the London School of Oriental & African Studies, as well as a B.A. in International Development and a B.A. in Economics from American University.