Harding Fine Arts Academy

Harding Fine Arts Academy in Oklahoma City will implement a curriculum to engage students and the community in positive public discourse on social and criminal justice reform. Beginning with the spring semester, students will read Just Mercy: A Story of Justice and Redemption by Bryan Stevenson. The academy also will distribute free copies of the book to members of the general public who are interested in participating in a book club and related discussions. History, government, and fine arts classes will cover material related to criminal and social justice. The curriculum will culminate with a weeklong conference that will include a film screening, guest lecturer, and panel discussion with community representatives. These efforts will address the effects of social isolation due to COVID-19 and promote community-wide healing.