Immigration, Identity and the Arts

The Library’s Executive Director, Saengmany Ratsabout, hosts this discussion group on the oral tradition themes in Thi Bui’s book, The Best We Could Do, and the different forms of art seen as “oral” tradition and history-making. Joining him will be ACF composer and Thai-American, Mary Prescott, Hta Thi, and members of the Karen Organization of Minnesota’s Karen Weaving Circle. Co-hosted by the Urban Village Group.

For more information about this series, click here.

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American Composers Forum believes that music is a medium that can help us connect as humans, tell stories, and share experiences. East Side Freedom Library has long hosted study groups, partnerships, and community events that lift up the stories of its neighborhood in the name of justice. Together, we will host several cultural events and conversations examining the theme of “Immigration, Identity, and the Arts,” to amplify the voices, stories, and music of immigrant artists and community members wrestling with this theme. Included in our events will be discussion of, and inspiration from, Thi Bui’s graphic memoir, The Best We Could Do. Supported by the NEA’s Big Read project, this book aligns greatly with our theme, and resonates with so many members of our community. We are planning parallel in-person and virtual options to accommodate health and accessibility considerations. All events are free and open to the public.

NEA Big Read is a program of the National Endowment for the Arts in partnership with Arts Midwest.

Mary Prescott is a fiscal year 2022 recipient of a Creative Support for Individuals grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board. This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund.