The prominent Black intellectual, writer, and political commentator Michael Harriot will join Sheryl Davis, Human Rights Commission Executive Director, in conversation at Manny's on a wide range of topics, including reparations, the force and power of Black women, and the anniversary of the MegaBlack S.F. collective.

About Michael Harriot:

Michael Harriot is a columnist at theGrio and a staff writer on The Amber Ruffin Show. His work has appeared in the Washington Post, the Atlantic, and BET; he is a frequent political commentator on MSNBC and CNN known for his biting observations and investigative reporting. Michael’s work has earned National Association of Black Journalists award for digital commentary and recognition for TV news writing. He holds degrees in mass communications and history from Auburn University and a master's degree in macroeconomics and international business from Florida State University. His book Black AF History: The Un-whitewashed Story of America is expected to be released this year.

Harriot’s work has influenced presidential politics and pop culture. He originated the phrase “invited to the cookout” and his social media posts contextualizing history are shared by millions. He served as the sole writer for BET's Midterm Election Special as well as "Young, Gifted and Broke," an examination of the student debt crisis. Although he has jokingly billed himself as a “wypipologist” for years, Michael Eric Dyson hails Harriot as "one of the funniest men out there, taking no prisoners on the subject of white supremacy".

About Sheryl Evans Davis:

Sheryl Evans Davis, EdD is a changemaker who leads relationship-driven, community-centered initiatives. Named Executive Director of the San Francisco Human Rights Commission in 2016, Dr. Davis is a passionate advocate for equity, access, and educational opportunity for all. For nearly three decades, she has made contributions as an educator and leader with expertise in community outreach and engagement, workforce development, youth development, and violence prevention.

Dr. Davis worked to build out an equity framework with San Francisco community stakeholders and City departments, resulting in the Office of Racial Equity. She also oversees the Equity Studies Task Force, the Blue Ribbon Panel for Juvenile Justice Reform, and the Dream Keeper Initiative, among other programs of the SFHRC. Dr. Davis is frequently requested to speak on issues of community wellness, equity, and strategic change work. She holds a BA from San Francisco State University, an MPA from the University of San Francisco, and an EdD from USC Rossier; in 2019, she was awarded an honorary doctorate from USF.