Mesa County Libraries are hosting a unique combination of art and events at the Central Library in downtown Grand Junction through May 10.
The Civil Discourse Series consists of workshops and discussions that explore ways of understanding other people, engaging in constructive disagreement, and communicating with compassion. It also features an art exhibition about homelessness by photographer Stevan Maxwell.
• “Faces and Voices: Homeless in America Photography Exhibit” features photos and interviews with homeless people. This powerful exhibit is on display during regular library hours through May 10 in the East Hallway of the Central Library in downtown Grand Junction.
• “Myths and Facts of Living Without Housing” (10 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 17, at the Central Library) features life-sized photographic sculptures and pre-recorded audio interviews. Docents from Grand Valley Peace and Justice will be on hand to answer questions.
• Panel discussion: “Human Dignity for All” (6:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 17, in the Central Library Community Room). Listen, ask, and learn about the homeless experience from people who have lived it. This discussion is open to the public at no charge. Seating is limited.
• Discussion/workshop: “Understanding Civil Discourse and Political Correctness” (5:30-7:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 25, at the Central Library). Participants will focus on the sociolinguistic phenomenon of political correctness and explore how it relates to civil discourse and to the broader structure of the English language. It will be led by Maureen Neal, Colorado Mesa University English professor emerita. Seating is limited and registration is required here.
• Workshop: “Compassionate Communication: Tools for Better Understanding” (6 p.m. Monday, April 30, at the Central Library). This workshop offers tools for connecting to ourselves and each other empathetically and communicating effectively, in order to promote better connection, understanding, and dissolution of conflict. It will be led by Kelly Haas, a local teacher and compassionate communication enthusiast.
Please join us for the art display and any or all of these special events!