The Science of Animal Pleasure: A Lecture by Dr. Jonathan Balcombe
February 21st 2012, 12:00 pm at GVSU – Cook DeWitt Center
HSGV is pleased to bring Dr. Jonathan Balcombe to the Grand Valley State University Allendale Campus this February. Dr. Balcombe is a renowned animal sentience expert, chair of Animal Studies Department at the Humane Society University, and author of Pleasurable Kingdom: Animals and the Nature of Feeling Good, Second Nature: The Inner Lives of Animals, and The Exultant Ark: The Pictorial Tour of Animal Pleasure.
Film: Iron Wall
February 22nd 2012, 7:00 pm at Calvin College – Bytwerk Theater
The first film is a documentary entitled, The Iron Wall, which looks at the Israeli settler expansion and the massive wall that is still under construction and is creating tremendous animosity amongst Palestinians.
This film is part of the Healing Children of Conflict (HCC) film series. The HCC film series is part of the group’s mission, which is to do education work around global conflicts that the US is involved and children are being seriously wounded.
Tim Wise at Partners for a Racism Free Community Forum
February 24th 2012, 8:00 am at Kroc Center
Tim Wise is among the most prominent anti-racist writers and educators in the United States. Recently named one of “25 Visionaries Who are Changing Your World,” by Utne Reader, Wise has spoken in 49 states, on over 600 college campuses, and to community groups across the nation. He has also lectured internationally in Canada and Bermuda on issues of comparative racism, race and education, racism and religion, and racism in the labor market.
Wise has provided anti-racism training to teachers nationwide, and has conducted trainings with physicians and medical industry professionals on how to combat racial inequities in health care. He has also trained corporate, government, entertainment, military and law enforcement officials on methods for dismantling racism in their institutions, and has served as a consultant for plaintiff’s attorneys in federal discrimination cases.
Renters Rights, Foreclosure Fights Potluck Discussion
February 25th 2012, 12:00 pm at The Bloom Collective
Join us for a lively discussion about renters rights, the housing foreclosure crisis and some creatives ways that people are resisting being evicted and abused by landlords around the country. We have invited guests who work on these issues, but we welcome all ideas and perspectives on how to stand up for everyone’s right to descent housing.
This is a potluck event. We invite to to bring food to share and the Bloom Collective will make sure there are vegan food options. This event will go from noon until 2pm.
MayDay Benefit Dinner
February 27th 2012, 7:00 pm at Bartertown Diner
Bartertown chefs will be creating a special 3 course meal while IWW members serve costumers. The event is a benefit to raise funds for the 3rd annual MayDay Celebration in Martin Luther King Jr. Park. Dinners are $25 per person.
For the last 2 years the closest Saturday to May 1st MLK Park has been reserved for a community celebration. Hundreds of people from the community have come to the park for food, entertainment, and resources to organize for a better Grand Rapids and society. This year the celebration will take place April 27th at Martin Luther King Jr. Park from 12 noon to 8 pm.
Money from the benefit dinner will go to securing the park, insurance, and a sound system for the celebration.
The Freedom Riders & Our Struggle For Justice
February 28th 2012, 12:00 pm at GVSU – Kirkhof Center
presented by Diane Nash
February 28 at 12pm in 2204 Kirkhof Center, Pere Marquette
A Chicago native who had never experienced segregation in public accommodation before moving to the South, Diane Nash went on to become one of the pioneers of the Civil Rights Movement.
Nash’s involvement in the nonviolent movement began in 1959. In 1961 she coordinated the Freedom Ride from Birmingham, Alabama, to Jackson, Mississippi, a story which was documented in the recent PBS American Experience film “Freedom Riders”. Her many arrests for civil rights activities culminated in Nash being imprisoned for 30 days, while she was pregnant with her first child. Undeterred, she went on to join a national committee to which she was appointed by President John F. Kennedy that promoted passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
8-Week Institute for Racial Healing
February 28th 2012, 3:30 pm at GVSU Meijer Campus
About Through facilitated dialogues and activities, individuals are immersed in a cognitive and affective program of learning, sharing, and processing within a multi-cultural group. Participants examine the inheritance of our history, institutionalized racism, contemporary bias, and ways to be an ally in healing racial divides. This model has been proven to establish profound insights and valuable relationships while providing a support network for continued understanding and resources. The cost is $100 per participant. Financial hardship scholarships are available upon request; please call (616) 846-9074.
Download flier:
www.ethnicdiversity.org/files-2/2012-02-28CommunityInstituteFlier.pdf
Learn more:
www.ethnicdiversity.org/what-we-do/diversityeducation
Miss Representation: Women, Media & the Art of Inquiry
February 28th 2012, 6:00 pm at GVSU – CHS Building
Explores the under-representation of women in positions of power and influence in America, and challenges the media’s limited portrayal of what it means to be a powerful woman.
The Women’s Center mission is to create meaningful learning about women and gender and to advocate for gender justice through the education, engagement, and empowerment of students and the greater GVSU community. This media series, followed by meaningful dialogue, will provide an opportunity to look at gender justice through a feminist lens. Light snacks and comfortable seating will be available!
Timeline of an Execution
February 28th 2012, 7:00 pm at GVSU – Kirkhof Center
To recognize the Death Penalty Action week taking place February 27th to March 1st, Amnesty International GV is proud to bring death row photographer and speaker Dr. Scott Langely to Grand Valley to display his exhibit, Timeline of an Execution. This collection of 20 photos leads the viewer through the night of an execution with photographs of visitation times, protests outside the jail, the last meal, and right up until the death certificate is signed. After viewing the photographs set up around the room. Dr. Langley will be speaking on behalf of his work and will answer questions after his speech.
IGE Talks: International Women’s History Month
March 1st 2012, 7:00 pm at Institute for Global Education
We’re making progress; we respect ourselves. Even the Pentagon wants to expand women’s occupational opportunities. But you’ve got to define your terms. Like women. And persons. Join us, and listen to women for a change. A public forum videotaped for viewing anytime on the internet and on GR metro cable access TV channel 24 at 7 pm Thurs. and 10 am Sat.
Transgender Ally Open House – kick-off campaign
March 3rd 2012, 3:00 pm at West Michigan Pride Center
Transgender Allies – Changing hearts, lives and communities one person at a time
Sponsored by Transgender Education Coalition
Speakers and life stories shared
LadyFestGR! A celebration of women in our community
March 3rd 2012, 4:00 pm at The Pyramid Scheme
All genders are welcome to attend workshops, a variety show, and a concert.
Free workshops
4:00-4:45 BIKE BASICS AND DIY REPAIR (bring your bikes or simply listen and take the knowledge back home to your wheels)
4:45-5:30 THE VAGINA: UNVEILED. Adult sex ed presented by Rebecca Bannink of Planned Parenthood
5:30-6:00 WOMEN’S RESOURCE PANEL. How you can get involved
Variety Show, $5
6:30-8:30. 8 diverse acts performing for 15 minutes. A showcase of women’s talents hosted by local comedian Sarah Jean Anderson.
Headlining event, $6
Fiona Dickinson http://www.fionadickinson.com/
The Doctors’ Wives http://www.reverbnation.com/thedoctorswives
Nobody’s Darlin’ http://www.facebook.com/NobodysDarlinband
Jes Kramer http://www.jeskramer.com/
SuperDre and Irawniq http://www.superdre.com/ http://www.fw2music.com/
$8 gets you into the variety show and concert
WMEAC Film Series: Dirt! The Movie
March 7th 2012, 6:30 pm at Wealthy Theatre
When was the last time you took a moment to think about dirt? I know, it’s been a while for those of us at WMEAC, too. That’s why the third installment of the film series features DIRT! As one of Earth’s most under-appreciated resources, dirt does an awful lot – it cleans our water, helps feed us, and regulates the climate. This film examines humans’ relationship with dirt; how many people abuse and destroy it, but also how we can repair the damage done and leave future generations with a cleaner, healthier world. Urban farming, urban planning, Community Supported Agriculture (CSA), farming policy, and globalization… DIRT! touches on all of these important topics (and more).
Admission is free with a suggested donation of $5. Doors are at 6:30pm, movie starts at 7pm.
Womanist Spiritual Activism
March 14th 2012, 4:00 pm at GVSU – Kirkhof Center
AnaLouise Keating is Associate Professor of Women’s Studies at Texas Woman’s University where she teaches courses on U.S. women of color, feminist epistemologies, feminist theories, and Gloria Anzaldua. She wrote a companion book in response to The Bridge Called My Back: Radical Writings by Women of Color by Gloria Anzaldua. She also worked closely with Gloria Anzaldua in developing her feminist philosophies. In her presentation AnaLouise will exam the spirituality through a gendered lens while exploring the faith development process as it relates to social justice.
Laramie Inside Out
March 14th 2012, 6:00 pm at GVSU – Kirkhof Center
In October 1998, Wyoming college student Matthew Shepard was brutally beaten and left to die. The horror of this murder pushed Laramie into the media spotlight and sparked a nationwide debate about homophobia, gay-bashing and hate crimes.
Filmmaker Beverly Seckinger returns to her hometown to see how this event had affected the site of her own closeted adolescence. Along the way she meets “God-hates-fags” Westboro Baptist Church Reverend Fred Phelps, who condemns Shepard and all homosexuals to an eternal hell. But Seckinger meets many more—parents, teachers, clergy and students—telling their stories, speaking out and taking action.
Naomi Wolf – Beyond Victimization: The Beauty Myth Revisited
March 14th 2012, 7:00 pm at Fountain Street Church
Author of seven books, including the New York Times best seller The Beauty Myth, Naomi Wolf focuses on gender equality, pervasive inequities in society and politics, the defense of liberty in America and internationally, and body image. She is the cofounder of the Woodhull Institute for Ethical Leadership, which teaches ethics and empowerment to young women leaders.
In Give Me Liberty: A Handbook for American Revolutionaries, Wolf argues that breathtaking changes take place when ordinary citizens engage in the democratic system the way the founders intended, through civic engagement.
Film: Waltz with Bashir
March 14th 2012, 7:00 pm at GVSU – Lake Huron Hall
The second film in the series is the 2008 animated documentary entitled, Waltz with Bashir. Waltz with Bashir looks at the horrors of the 1982 Lebanon War.
This film is part of the Healing Children of Conflict (HCC) film series. The HCC film series is part of the group’s mission, which is to do education work around global conflicts that the US is involved and children are being seriously wounded.
Film: Waltz with Bashir
March 15th 2012, 7:00 pm at Calvin College – Bytwerk Theater
The second film in the series is the 2008 animated documentary entitled, Waltz with Bashir. Waltz with Bashir looks at the horrors of the 1982 Lebanon War.
This film is part of the Healing Children of Conflict (HCC) film series. The HCC film series is part of the group’s mission, which is to do education work around global conflicts that the US is involved and children are being seriously wounded.
Fight in the Fields: Cesar Chavez and the Farmworkers Struggle
March 16th 2012, 2:00 pm at GVSU – Kirkhof Center
Using archival footage, newsreel, and interviews with Ethel Kennedy, former California Governor Jerry Brown, Dolores Huerta and Chavez brother, sister, son and daughter, among others, the documentary traces the remarkable contributions of Chavez and others involved in this epic struggle.
Spiritual Violence Against the LGBT Community: A Critical Conversation
March 22nd 2012, 4:00 pm at GVSU – Kirkhof Center
Presented by Doug Van Doren, Plymouth United Church of Christ
Thursday, March 22nd at 4 p.m.
2263 Kirkhof Center
An important issue for many raised in a faith tradition is to be able to interpret those �seven passages� from the Bible which are often used as weapons against the LGBT community. This program will focus on addressing concerns about these passages as well as understanding what might be at stake for a person who is holding onto a literal point of view.
The Network’s 2012 Screening of Grand Rapids LGBTQ People’s History Project
March 24th 2012, 6:30 pm at The Network
The LGBT Network of Western Michigan invites all members of the Grand Rapids-area community to attend this fantastic film screening of GR’s LGBTQIA history, as seen through the documentary.This project was conducted by the Grand Rapids Institute for Information Democracy (GRIID). GRIID began working on a People’s History of Grand Rapids Project in the summer of 2010.
The process of this project involved conducting interviews with members of the LGBTQ community and some straight allies, finding archival video, documents and photos. We also read numerous books on LGBTQ history from the Stonewall uprising to the present and conducted research project of the Grand Rapids Press coverage during the 1980s and 90s, a time when most of the organizing in the LGBTQ community was happening.
Come enjoy an evening with friends, a Q and A, and some catered refreshments as well as learn about GR’s LGBT and allied-past and look towards our community’s future.
Cesar E. Chavez Commemoration Day
March 29th 2012, 12:00 pm at GVSU – Kirkhof Center
Courage, Hope and Love: Honoring the Legacy of Cesar Chavez
Dr. Miguel Martinez-Saenz
Associate Provost of Undergraduate Education and Student Support Services St. Cloud State University
Thursday, March 29, 2012
Grand River Room, Kirkhof Center, Allendale
Scheduled Events:
Noon-12:30 p.m. – Silent march, begins at the entrance of Zumberge Library
1:00-2:00 p.m. – Keynote address by Miguel Martinez-Saenz
2:00-3:00 p.m. – Reception with keynote speaker
For more details, please refer to the link below.
Women & Environment Symposium
March 29th 2012, 12:00 pm at GVSU – Eberhard Center
West Michigan Environmental Action Council and Grand Valley State University’s Women’s Center and Sustainable Community Development Initiative present the first Women & Environment Symposium. The symposium will explore the intersection between women’s and environmental issues, examining topics like environmental impacts on women’s and children’s health, food and farming practices, eco-business and sustainable living. An invaluable opportunity for professionals and students alike to learn about the issues, their history and current success stories, it is the first large-scale meeting between regional leaders in the academic, business and activism communities focused on women and the environment.
The panels and keynote are free to the public. The luncheon is $25, the reception is $15 and both are available for a discounted price of $35. Both are free for university students. For more information or to register visit wmeac.org/women
Off the Chain: A Look into the Underground World of Dog-Fighting
March 29th 2012, 7:00 pm at GVSU – Kirkhof Center
HSGV is excited to host a screening of Off the Chain, a documentary offering an unprecedented look into the underground world of dog fighting that begins with a history of the American Pit Bull Terrier and explores the evolution of the breed. Following the screening, a panel discussion will be held with film writer and director, Bobby J. Brown, HSUS Michigan State Director, Jill Fritz, and Animal Control Supervisor of Kent County, Joe Dainelis.This event aims to bring awareness to the crime of dog-fighting and how everyday citizens can take part to end this cruel bloodsport. This event will also give attendees an overview of what is currently happening with animal fighting, neglect, and cruelty issues in Michigan and the local Grand Rapids area along with an exciting legislative update about a group of bills that would increase animal fighting penalties in the state of Michigan.
Transgender Visibility Day Celebration
March 31st 2012, 6:00 pm at The Network
The Network invites all members of our community and its allies to attend an exciting town hall event occurring at the center in Eastown and being put on by the Transgender Education Collaboration (http://www.trans-edu.com/).
The evening will consist of Networking, a panel discussion, refreshments, two speakers, and a Q & A breakout session.
All interested may attend and please spread the word of this important event on visibility.
Any questions? Contact the Network at 616-458-3511 or else thenetwork@grlgbt.org
In spirit Networkers.
The Network – One Community. Many Voices.
Let’s Talk About “IT” by Kelly and Becca
April 2nd 2012, 9:00 pm at GVSU – Kirkhof Center
First event of Sexual Assault Awareness Week! Being put on by Eyes Wide Open, Kelly and Becca’s passion for sharing Let’s Talk About “ IT’” stems from Kelly’s experience with sexual assault while in college, it’s impact on their lives, the trauma of the resulting pregnancy and the critical role their friendship played in the recovery process. Unlike any other program on the topic of sexual violence Kelly and Becca use humor to both inform and inspire. Using their signature three step model, they teach participants how they can help reduce sexual violence. Armed with their personal experience, expertise and unique ability to relate to each member of the audience this program treats both men and women as allies while focusing on the importance of communication, bystander prevention, personal responsibility and supporting survivors.
Inside Out: Portraits of Transgender Children
April 4th 2012, 4:00 pm at GVSU – Kirkhof Center
Wednesday, April 4th at 4 p.m.
2263 Kirkhof Center
Photographer Sarah Wong will travel from Amsterdam to speak about her work with gender variant children in The Netherlands. In her country, transgender people are treated with compassion and acceptance in regard to social acceptance and medical treatment. Sarah�s photographs chronicle young children who have come of age in this environment and reveal the drastic impact such support can have on one�s happiness.
WMEAC Film Series: FernGully
April 4th 2012, 6:30 pm at Wealthy Theatre
Rainforests are crucial to virtually any environmental issue. They are integral for the absorption of carbon dioxide, prevention of soil erosion and are home to millions of different species of plants and animals. Join the West Michigan Environmental Action Council and Wealthy Theatre this Spring Break for a showing of FernGully: The Last Rainforest.
Humans exist only in fairy tales for the magical creatures living in FernGully, until Zak Young stumbles upon their vibrant life hidden to most humans. As Zak gets to know FernGully and its inhabitants, he realizes that he must help save this fragile ecosystem that is threatened by a logging company and the destructive force called Hexxus. With the voices of Robin Williams, Tim Curry, and Christian Slater, this animated film is a great introduction of environmental issues for children or a lighthearted inspiration to more sustainable living for adults.
This event is free to the public, with a suggested donation of $5.
Film: Encounter Point
April 4th 2012, 7:00 pm at GVSU – Lake Huron Hall
This film tells the story of an Israeli settler, a Palestinian ex-prisoner, a bereaved Israeli mother and a wounded Palestinian bereaved brother who sacrifice their safety, public standing and homes in order to press for a grassroots movement for nonviolence and peace.
This film is part of the Healing Children of Conflict (HCC) film series. The HCC film series is part of the group’s mission, which is to do education work around global conflicts that the US is involved and children are being seriously wounded.
Film: Encounter Point
April 5th 2012, 7:00 pm at Calvin College – Bytwerk Theater
This film tells the story of an Israeli settler, a Palestinian ex-prisoner, a bereaved Israeli mother and a wounded Palestinian bereaved brother who sacrifice their safety, public standing and homes in order to press for a grassroots movement for nonviolence and peace.
This film is part of the Healing Children of Conflict (HCC) film series. The HCC film series is part of the group’s mission, which is to do education work around global conflicts that the US is involved and children are being seriously wounded.
Film: I’m Just Anneke
April 5th 2012, 8:00 pm at GVSU – Kirkhof Center
I’m Just Anneke is the first film in a four-part series of short films called The Youth and Gender Media Project designed to educate school communities about transgender and gender nonconforming youth.
ransgender and gender fluid youth are the most courageous people I have ever met. Despite overwhelming pressure to conform to an oppressive gender binary paradigm, they refuse to do it in order to be true to themselves. I wanted to pay tribute to these courageous young people and to inspire all of us to reconsider our own decisions about gender identity and expression.
Anneke is going into eighth grade in the fall of 2010 and I plan to film her over the course of her first year in high school. This footage will become a feature length documentary about Anneke’s life as she starts to take testosterone and begins a slow and thoughtful transition to fully embody her own unique gender identity.
May Day Celebration
April 28th 2012, 12:00 pm at Martin Luther King, Jr. Park
This year’s event will begin at 12 noon and will host a wide array of musical performances throughout the day.
Also, there will continue to be a community potluck from noon to 2pm, and a really really free market.
Just like the previous years there will be resources and networks for working class people throughout the day.
Come out and join the community in remembrance of the Haymarket Martyrs and in preparation for the fight ahead!
WMEAC Film Series: No Impact Man
May 9th 2012, 6:30 pm at Wealthy Theatre
The West Michigan Environmental Council’s goal is to lead environmental protection by inspiring action in the local community. The effects of climate change and environmental degradation are becoming ever more apparent, but what can one individual do to make real change?
With the final film in our series, No Impact Man, WMEAC hopes to inspire a discussion of what actions one can take to reduce their environmental impact. Colin Beavan was aware of environmental issues, but realized that he and his family weren’t doing enough to make a difference. He decided to attempt to live, along with his wife, daughter and their dog, an entire year “without making any net impact on the environment“. Is it possible to live in Manhattan without using electricity, public transportation, TV, and even toilet paper? This documentary follows Colin and his family as they find out what living a no impact life means and if it’s even possible.
Admission is free with a $5 suggested donation.
Lakeshore Region Summit on Race & Inclusion
June 5th 2012, 7:30 am at Hope College
The Lakeshore Region Summit on Race & Inclusion gathers hundreds of individuals to a day-long conference focused on the effects of racism and designed to stimulate a year of action. Join us to learn from nationally-recognized experts in the field and best practices that contribute to creating a vibrant, inclusive region.
West Michigan Pride Festival
June 16th 2012, 12:00 pm at Riverside Park
24th annual Pride Festival – Riverside Park, Grand Rapids
Pre-pride events include Pride at Eve – June 14, 2012 – 8pm – Pride Movie Night, Wealthy Theatre – Friday, June 15, 2012 7pm
