Angela Y. Davis
Distinguished Professor Emerita, History of Consciousness, University of California at Santa Cruz
Jefferson Memorial Lectures
October 28, 2026 — 7:30 pmZellerbach Auditorium, Cal Performances — UC Berkeley Campus
Critical Theory (20th Anniversary)
Register to attend
Registration for this event is being co-managed by Cal Performances, however, Berkeley Graduate Lectures supporters can secure free tickets (while supplies last).
About this lecture
This lecture reflects on the theme of one of Nina Simone’s most widely recognized songs: “I Wish I Knew How It Would Feel to Be Free” (composed by jazz pianist Billy Taylor). That this musical expression of a hypothetical relationship to freedom became one of the major anthems associated with the mid-twentieth century Black liberation movement suggests ways of imagining freedom that can be particularly meaningful in the current social context.
This lecture is part of the Jefferson Memorial Lecture Series and is co-sponsored for the 20th Anniversary of the Program in Critical Theory at UC Berkeley.
About Angela Y. Davis
Angela Y. Davis is professor emerita of history of consciousness and feminist studies at University of California, Santa Cruz. An activist, writer, and lecturer, her work focuses on prisons, police, abolition, and the related intersections of race, gender, and class. She is the author of many books including: An Autobiography to Freedom Is a Constant Struggle. Her most recent books include Abolition.Feminism.Now., written with Gina Dent, Erica Meiners and Beth Richie, and a book of essays entitled Abolition: Politics, Practices, Promises, Vol. 1.
Wheelchair accessible and service dogs welcome. For disability-related accommodation, email [email protected] or call 510-643-9164 4-7 days in advance of the lecture.