Seeking Out the Other: A Community-Building Discussion and Potluck

1957 Sheridan Rd,Highland Park IL 60035

24 February, 2022

Description

Seeking Out the Other: A Community-Building Initiative Presents the Second Event in an Ongoing Series "Who are the “we” in “We the People of the United States . . .” Guest Speaker: Janea Harris of Insight Advocacy will give a short introduction and then moderate topics including: • Who are the “we” in “We the People of the United States…?” • Does the United States have a “national character” — what defines it and how has it changed over time? • What does being a “citizen” mean? What does productive, imaginative, and engaged citizenship look like at this time in our history? • What happens to the idea of a shared American identity (liberty, equality, individualism, populism? laissez-faire?) when social mobility declines along with trust in American institutions? Janea D. Harris is an author (All Girls Have Sup-Her Powers, The Power of Voice, Through the Window of Winter the Rabbit) and poet who loves using creative writing to help children gain a better understanding of complex topics. As an educator, she learned that children often discover lasting life-long lessons in the books that they read. As a newer resident of Highland Park she will share some of her initial experiences after moving to the city, events which led her to co-found Insight Advocacy, with the mission to advocate for inclusion and diversity in our community by providing visibility, insight, and resources to support families of color. Seeking Out the Other takes on the format of a community potluck meal. Attendees are encouraged to bring food that represents their own background or their family traditions. Plates, flatware, and a variety of beverages will be provided. This event is a continuation of the series ‘Seeking Out the Other’, a collaboration between the Highland Park Library, the Highwood Library, The Justice Project, and The Art Center Highland Park. Part of the Arts in Action initiative of The Art Center Highland Park, the evening’s structure and format was created by Chad Clark, Assistant Director of The Highland Park Public Library. TACHP harnesses the transformative power of art to change and improve lives through impactful and innovative exhibitions. We showcase national and regional artists to our 4 museum quality gallery spaces with exhibitions for established and emerging artists. Community outreach is a vital part of our galleries ability to inspire, connect and expand the TACHP reach.