Every year, the Franco American Center at the University of Maine organizes a “rassemblement” (gathering) of Franco-American artists, writers, and other cultural workers. Part conference, part reunion, this annual event provides a culturally supportive space in which members of the Franco-American creative community can share their work. This year, like last, we will gather virtually, via Zoom. If you are a Franco-American artist or your work engages with Franco-American culture you are invited to participate from wherever you are in the world — Friday, April 23 and Saturday, April 24, 2021.
This year’s theme is BELONGING (And Not Belonging): What does it mean to belong? How does the Franco community create a sense of belonging to its members? Where or when have you felt included and excluded, within the Franco community or elsewhere? Why do we wish to feel that we belong, and what are the values and dangers of that feeling? How is assimilation related to belonging? Participants’ presentations may or may not respond to this theme, but we do ask that they in some way relate to Franco culture or history.
In preparation for our conversation, please share your thoughts and experiences related to the theme of BELONGING by completing this brief survey.
RASSEMBLEMENT SCHEDULE
All times in Eastern Standard Time. All meetings will take place via Zoom. Zoom links and other information will be provided to registered attendees in advance of the event. The majority of the event takes place in English, but French is cherished, welcomed, and encouraged.
OPENING EVENT & DISCUSSION: Friday, April 23, 7-9pm
Joan Vermette hosts a discussion on our theme, “Belonging (And Not Belonging).” What does it mean to belong? How does the Franco community create a sense of belonging to its members? Where or when have you felt included and excluded, within the Franco community or elsewhere? Why do we wish to feel that we belong, and what are the values and dangers of that feeling? How is assimilation related to belonging? To respond to a preliminary survey on the topic, please visit https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/Z7BYPC2.
MORNING PRESENTATIONS & DISCUSSION: Saturday, April 24, 10am-12noon
Participants present their own work or reflection on this year’s theme.
BREAK FOR LUNCH
AFTERNOON PRESENTATIONS & DISCUSSION: Saturday, April 24, 2-4pm
Participants present their own work or reflection on this year’s theme.
EVENING/CLOSING EVENT: Saturday, April 24, 7-9pm
“Soirée de la Musique – a Virtual Kitchen Party”
Maine chanteur Robert Sylvain invites his musical friends, including fiddler and fellow founder of Boréal Tordu, Steve Muise, for an evening of song-sharing and celebration! We’ll trade fiddle tunes and folksongs in the Franco-American tradition, including selections from Robert’s new release Mémère’s Notebook. If you have music to share, please sign up when you register and we’ll invite you to perform, or just join us to kick back and listen in.
SUNDAY MORNING DEBRIEF & COFFEE HOUR: Sunday, April 25, 10am-12noon
Optional informal discussion to wrap-up the weekend, provide feedback, and say good-byes.
Please feel free to forward this invitation to any Franco-American artist or creator who you think would like to join us for a weekend of uniquely Franco creative energy.
For more information, please contact Lisa Michaud at 207-581-3789 or lisam@maine.edu.