UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Join Penn State University Libraries for the fourth annual "Voices: The Share Your Story Showcase,” where lived experiences are honored through listening attentively to one another’s stories.
On Wednesday, March 18, this year's event will kick off with the popular moderated Showcase Panel at 11 a.m. in Foster Auditorium, 102 Paterno Library. Then, individual storytelling sessions will be held in smaller group appointments of approximately 45 minutes each, from 1 to 5 p.m. at various Pattee Library and Paterno Library classroom locations.
Attendees can sign up, via online reservation, for all sessions. The hope is that such interaction will promote inclusion, encourage civil discourse to reduce bias and challenge narrow perspectives.
Participants can view a list of 2020's Voices and descriptions of their stories at https://sites.psu.edu/allinvoices/.
During a human storytelling showcase, selected individuals are invited to share their unique experiences during the 45-minute appointments. The volunteer “voices” are chosen from the local community and entire University population of faculty, staff and students; hail from all walks of life, ages, genders and lifestyle choices; and are willing to share their experiences in group conversations. They will answer participants’ honest, curious questions in an effort to challenge stereotypes and prejudice through dialogue — and difficult questions are expected, appreciated and will be answered.
"Voices: The Share Your Story Showcase" is sponsored by the University Libraries in cooperation with Penn State’s Adult Learner Programs and Services, Schreyer Honors College, the Gender Equity Center, the Center for Sexual and Gender Diversity, and the Center for the Performing Arts.
In the event of snowy weather, "Voices" will be rescheduled for Wednesday, Mar. 25. For further information or for questions about accommodations provided for this event, contact Megan Gilpin at mcg13@psu.edu or 814-867-0069.