It seems that sometimes folks get tired of hearing about the woes of slavery. Or, we don't want to face the feelings associated with the issue. In connection with the Margaret Garner, I chose to see the documentary Banished, about former slaves who, from 1860-1930, were forced to abandon their homes, their property and their community. The film, followed by a conversation with director Marco Williams, was incredibly thought-provoking and enlightening and I'm so glad that I attended. I learned about a part of history that was completely new to me and that knowledge now profoundly impacts my understanding of current racial issues. While it is impractical to dwell in the past, understanding the past is critical in understanding present issues and in contemplating our future.
I am eagerly anticipating the opening of Margaret Garner! Hers is a bit of history that I have never learned. While I have high expectations of the performance, I am equally eager to learn more about this chapter of our history.
Congratulations to Nicole E. - the winner of two tickets to the November 8th, 7:30pm performance. Nicole was randomly selected from those Sophisticates who responded correctly to the following: "name of one of the educational or community events (excluding the Gala) associated with this production." It's not too late for you to take part in one of these remaining events:
· Oct. 30, 7:30PM: The Music of Margaret Garner - A evening of solo and chamber works by Margaret Garner composer Richard Danielpour as part of his weeklong residence at Northwestern.
· Oct. 30, 8:00PM: Tune in to WTTW - Channel 11 "The Making of Margaret Garner"
· Nov. 1, 9:00AM: Chicago Foundation for Women 23rd Annual Symposium and Luncheon with Denyce Graves
· Nov. 2, 11:30AM: Meet the Creators: Margaret Garner - Community Conversation panel discussion with Margaret Garner artists.
I encourage you to enrich your Margaret Garner experience by attending one of these events! Also, following the November 6th performance, the Chicago Committee for Minorities in Large Law Firms and Ronne Hartfield host a "Fireside Chat" - open discussion. The History Makers is the host of the November 9th performance, featuring Julieanna Richardson. Use Special Offer Code "Garner" save 20% off your Margaret Garner tickets!