Social Justice & the Olympic Movement, October 18-29, 2024
In the fall of 2024, Grinnell alumni travel trips return with an exploration of the intersection of social justice and the Olympic movement throughout history. Rediscover what it was like to be a Grinnell College student and join faculty experts Will Freeman and Kesho Scott for an immersive tour of ancient and modern Olympic sites in Germany and Greece. Together the group will unpack the ways the Olympic Games has navigated the issues of racism, antisemitism, sexism, and international politics.
In Berlin, Nuremberg, and Munich the group will explore the role the Olympics played in the rise of Nazi Germany and the horrors unleashed by the Nazis thereafter. The group will then travel to Athens and Olympia to visit the sites of the original games. Along the way, enjoy meals with fellow Grinnellians, experience site visits to ancient wonders like the Parthenon, and, most importantly, learn from two of Grinnell College’s most beloved faculty members.
Highlights
- Visit modern and ancient Olympic stadiums in Berlin, Munich, Athens, and ancient Olympia.
- Learn more about the role the Olympics played in the rise of Nazi Germany and visit the Topography of Terror, Nazi rally grounds, the Nuremberg Palace of Justice, and Dachau Concentration Camp.
- Enjoy exploring the beauty of Berlin and Bavaria with tours of local favorites and time for shopping and relaxation.
- Explore the wonders of ancient Athens with tours of the Acropolis, the Temple of Nike, and the Parthenon.
- In each location, hear from trip leaders Will Freeman and Kesho Scott about the connection between what you see and the theme of the trip. Discuss the complexities of each site with your fellow Grinnellians.
- Get to know your accompanying trip members before the trip by virtually gathering to watch Olympic events during the Summer 2024 Olympics in Paris on Zoom and participate in a few voluntary “Social Justice and the Olympic Movement” virtual course sessions with Will and Kesho.
