Students, MMMC to host performance, forum about diversity, immigration

Communication and journalism students from the University of Maine, together with the Maine Multicultural Center, will host a free, public performance and community conversation about diversity and immigration in Maine.

“Performing ME, Performing US,” will be held at 11 a.m. May 7 in UMaine’s Black Box Theatre.

Students, with the assistance of the MMMC, conducted in-depth story-sharing sessions with new Mainers from various walks of life. “Performing ME, Performing US” is based on students’ experiences and stories they heard. Following the performance, a dialogue with the audience will be held to promote cross-cultural understanding and connection.

UMaine students in the “Narrative, Performance, and Social Change” course appreciated the chance to understand the topics in a relatable way.

“It has been a unique and enriching opportunity to learn about the stories of people who are vital to the vibrancy and economic success of our area and whose voices all too often remain unnoticed,” says Shea Costin, a senior communication major.

“It is very challenging to have to tell someone else’s story, especially because we may be so different, but the experience has taught me about the importance of listening deeply,” student Micah Wright adds.

The MMMC, which connected students with area immigrants and helped to organize the event, began serving the Bangor area in 2017. The center seeks to enliven Bangor’s economic and cultural development “by eliminating barriers to local services, by fostering social networks and connections, and by providing programs that promote cross-cultural competencies within our schools, religious and community organizations, municipal offices and neighborhoods.”

To learn more about “Performing ME, Performing US,” email Lily Herakova at liliana.herakova@maine.edu or visit the Facebook event page.