Princeton University will be hosting a symposium on how speculative fictions can examine some of society’s most prevalant social problems in order to put help build a better world. Black To The Future is a one day event takes place on September 14th and it features an impressive lineup of authors, artists and academics.
Here’s the description:
What stories about power, difference, and belonging fuel the social crises we face today? How does visionary fiction offer us models for creating new possible worlds? Can the combined insights and interventions of artists, activists, and scholars plot a different course forward? “Ferguson is the Future” is part of an ongoing collaboration to imagine and create alternative worlds that are more just and representative of humanity.
This symposium brings together a multigenerational panel of speculative fiction writers, activists, filmmakers, academics, and artists to discuss the historical, present-and-future manifestations of a social reality we wish to create and thrive in. As we work to shape change, we will use this space as an incubator and laboratory to grow new visions of the worlds we want to exist. Please join us for a day-long celebration and investigation to explore these timely issues.
The impressive list of guest speakers includes: Reynaldo Anderson, Lisa Bolekaja, Adrienne Maree Brown, Erin Christovale, Dj Lynnée Denise, M. Asli Dukan, Tananarive Due, Johnetta Elzie, Nettrice Gaskins, Amir George, Andrea Hairston, Nalo Hopkinson, Walidah Imarisha, John Jennings, Dennis Leroy Kangalee, Colored Girls Hustle, Mcelroy, Soraya Jean-lous Mcelroy, Alondra Nelson, Daniel José Older, Brittany N. Packnett, Numa Perrier, Rasheedah Phillips, Sofia Samatar, Dorothy Roberts, Nisi Shawl and Be Steadwell.
This looks like an absolutely incredible day. You can register for the event here.