Conversations on Identity and Difference

In four Friday sessions—Nov. 15, Nov. 22, Dec. 6, and Dec. 13—students and community members will reflect upon service and civic engagement, exploring how narratives can ultimately increase self-awareness among diverse backgrounds, communities, and environments. Representatives of People & Stories, which seeks to “invite under-served participants to find fresh understanding of themselves, of others, and the world,” will demonstrate their methodology: an oral reading of an enduring short story followed by a facilitated group discussion that dances between the literature and life experiences of participants. The initiative will form part of a Princeton University Service Focus cohort on “Identity and Difference,” led by Cheyenne Wolf, Executive Director of People & Stories; Spanish and Portuguese Professor Christina Lee; Kira O’Brien of the Pace Center for Civic Engagement; and Junior Fellow Toyosi Oluwole ’21.

Two themes will be available. “Crossing Borders” will investigate biases across urban and suburban lines. “Identities, Awakening, Journeys and Communities” will spotlight identity as central to the most compelling works and characters of fiction, with lessons for the lives of readers. Through readings and conversations, participants will not only discover previously unexamined parts of themselves, but also critically engage with the people around them.

Open to the public. Direct any questions to Kira O’Brien: kirao@princeton.edu.

This event is part of the Being Human Festival 2019 of the Humanities Council.