The University of Alberta's Days of Action committee is organizing a Living Library in observance of World Social Justice Day (WSJD). Caring for the mental health of individuals includes advocating for equity, diversity, and inclusion on campus and in our larger community; mental health and social justice are connected. WSJD activities will provide our campus community an opportunity to listen to diverse experiences where current matters of social justice and mental health intersect at our University.
The Living Library enables people with diverse backgrounds or unique life experiences to voluntarily share their personal histories and allow for questions and conversation. The goal of the Living Library is to challenge stereotypes and prejudices through open dialogue. Living Libraries are safe and neutral spaces where difficult questions can be asked and answered.
We are inviting people from the U of A and Edmonton communities to participate in the Living Library as a Living Book. A Living Books is someone who would like to share some of their lived experience of resilience, challenge, and paths toward change with small groups of listeners to build empathy and confront stereotypes, prejudice, and discrimination.
We will work with volunteer “Living Books” to provide autonomy with their involvement. Volunteers will be given choice of conversation subject, group size, and preference for online or in-person interaction. Volunteers are also asked to give time for a one-on-one meeting, and a group orientation in the lead-up to the event. This will happen the week of February 13th, with a specific day chosen based on volunteer availability.
What you can expect as a Living Book:
- To share your story and have a conversation with their listeners. Sessions run for about an hour. The Living Library team can help you prepare or practice for your session in advance.
- You will meet with 2 to 7 listeners at one time. This can increase depending on your comfort as the speaker.
- Our team will work with your preferences on how to engage as a Living Book as much as we are able.
- All Living Books are asked to participate in our orientation. This is mandatory for participation.
- Following your submission, one of the project team will book a virtual meeting with you to talk about your participation.
- If you have any questions, please email Heather Ritz and a member of the Days of Action Committee will get back to you.
