Fashioning Identity Through Creativity in Multilingual & Multicultural Contexts

SIPA 103

The workshop will focus on thought as it relates to identity and empathy in multilingual and multicultural contexts. The concept of identity as perceived and expressed through an exploration of language, thought, and meaningful experiences will guide the discussion. Participants will take part in a series of interactive thinking activities designed to bring out aspects of identity and empathy as manifested in different cultural and linguistic contexts. They will then be encouraged to explore how these aspects differ among linguistic and cultural groups while reflecting on their personal experiences. After this interactive process, participants will produce a creative representation of some aspect of their thought process to share with the entire group. Finally, a discussion of how a creative and collaborative exploration of identity can promote empathy, dialogue and respectful coexistence will ensue.