MSU to host exhibit on local refugees

An exhibit of the Refuge Lansing project will be hosted by Michigan State University’s Writing, Rhetoric and American Cultures Department, the CAL Citizen Scholars Program, the English Language Center and the MSU Library on Oct. 13 and 16.

This exhibit, created by local writers and photographers working with the Refugee Development Center, welcomes members of the MSU and local communities to learn about and celebrate 12 new stories of resettlement in our community.

These refugee stories invite dialogue about perceptions and understanding of the backgrounds, struggles, triumphs and contributions of those who join our communities from elsewhere.

The exhibit and surrounding events highlight the positive effects of a more open refugee policy and of Lansing’s commitment to welcoming those who seek the opportunity to create a new life for themselves and their families.

The first exhibit will be noon-5 p.m. Oct. 13 at the second floor atrium of Wells Hall.

Featured speakers include:

• Erika Brown-Binion, executive director of the Refugee Development Center
• Ruelaine Stokes, contributing writer of the Refuge Lansing project

The second exhibit’s panel, “Join the Conversation: Diversity, Inclusion and Refugee Experiences,” will be 6:30-8 p.m. Oct. 16 at the green room of MSU Main Library on the fourth floor west. The viewing and writing event for Citizen Scholars will be in the same location from 5 to 6:30 p.m.

Featured speakers include:

• Paula Franz, executive director of Global Institute of Lansing
• Stephanie Nawyn, associate professor of sociology and co-director of the Center for Gender in Global Context
• Suban Nur Cooley, WRAC Ph.D. student and contributing writer of Refuge Lansing Project
• Rod Sanford, contributing photographer of the Refuge Lansing project and retired photojournalist of the Lansing State Journal