Join the Department of Racial and Social Justice and the Somerville Museum for a panel discussion centering conversation on the Black diaspora, how Black history has influenced the arts and culture, and the imperative of preserving Black history in your community.
Biographical Information on panelists:
Boston native Christian Walkes is a Ph.D. Candidate in Education at Harvard University, where he studies the history of African American education, and is the former Director of Education and Interpretation Programs at the Museum of African American History in Boston and Nantucket. In addition to his role as a student and public historian, he serves as an adjunct professor in the College of Education and Human Development at UMass/Boston. He is also a member of the Boston Writing Project's advisory board to write grants and implement programs to support literacy instruction in local schools and communities.
Catherine Nakato is a multidisciplinary creative utilizing her skills to bridging the intersectionality between the arts, technology, culture, and community. She curates events in the community to ignite conversation and change. With
a drive for knowledge and an expansive taste for understanding how to dive into meaningful events in a fun and digestible way, her work amplifies digital knowledge-sharing among the African diaspora and leaves a great impact on our cultural institutions
Catherine Piantigini has worked in the Somerville Public Libraries (SPL) in various roles for 31 years and counting, now serving as the SPL Director. Among these roles, Cathy has served as a Reference Librarian, Community Services Librarian, Young Adult Librarian, Head of Youth Services, and as Deputy Director. She has focused on expanding programming and outreach and has been pivotal in overhauling the library's social media presence over the years. Cathy is a driven and collaborative leader with a passion for finding new, innovative ways to preserve history and bring community together.
Light refreshments will be provided.
Admission: Free
For questions, please contact rsj@somervillema.gov
Persons with disabilities can request accommodations to access the programs, activities, and meetings of the City of Somerville by contacting Adrienne Pomeroy at 617-625-6600 x 2059 or ADA@somervillema.gov in advance of the event.
The City of Somerville can provide you with an interpreter in your language for free. Please contact somervillema.gov/ContactSomerviva or call 311 at 617-666-3311 at least 7 days in advance of this event.