Syracuse Sun

A study by the National Humanities Alliance highlights the importance of humanities public programming in preparing students for global citizenship. It emphasizes that such programs equip individuals with skills transferable to various life and work areas, fostering more thoughtful and critical individuals.

The Syracuse University Humanities Center organizes the Syracuse Symposium, offering a range of events like art exhibitions, lectures, film screenings, workshops, and musical performances. These events aim to inspire critical thinking on current issues and encourage reflection on personal values and beliefs. They are open to Syracuse University students, faculty, staff, and the local community.

This year's Symposium theme is "community," chosen by the Center’s Advisory Board. The spring events focus on how humanities contribute to inclusive communities and just societies. They also aim to spark discussions through unique juxtapositions like sports' role in community-building or youth storytelling through film and dance.

Spring events include:

- On February 2: "In Our Own Backyards / In Our Own Communities" features films by local high school students at Watson Hall Theater.

- On February 7-8: Resettled refugee youth from the Narratio Fellowship will share stories through poetry set to music by Ameen Mokdad with performances by Cuatro Puntos musicians and Ekklesia Contemporary Ballet dancers.

- On February 26: Former athletes Eric Devendorf and Eric Jackson will discuss sports' role in community-building at an event presented by Syracuse Stage.

- On March 6: Keisha Green will explore justice-oriented teaching amid today's political climate.

- On March 18: Events spotlight Gertrude Berg's work with screenings curated by Robert Thompson and Emily Nussbaum using archival materials.

- On April 3-4: Patricia Spears Jones will host readings and discussions about her writing techniques.

- On April 5: Film director Will Fraser will discuss his documentaries on pipe organs alongside organists.

For more information on Spring 2025 Syracuse Symposium events, visit their website.