Exploring America’s Hidden Conversations on Race and Identity
2 min read
Discussions about race and identity are vital yet challenging. On Wednesday, May 29, 2024, from 7 to 8 PM EDT, the African American History and Culture Museum will host an enlightening event at the Oprah Winfrey Theater, along with a live stream accessible worldwide. This event, sponsored by the museum, promises an engaging book talk featuring the insightful work of Peabody Award–winning journalist Michele Norris and her book, *Our Hidden Conversations: What Americans Really Think About Race and Identity*.
Norris’s book delves into the heart of America’s racial dialogue, offering a transformative exploration of race and identity in the country. Her journey began over a decade ago with The Race Card Project, where she invited individuals to share their thoughts on race in just six words. What ensued was a profound revelation of the nation’s unfiltered sentiments on race, ethnicity, identity, and class. Over twelve years, half a million submissions poured into The Race Card Project inbox, each offering a glimpse into the complexities of American life.
*Our Hidden Conversations* is not merely a compilation of anecdotes; it’s a mosaic of stories, essays, and photographs that paint a vivid portrait of America in a tumultuous era. These narratives, richly reported and deeply personal, challenge readers to confront uncomfortable truths and long-held stereotypes. They provide a rare opportunity to eavesdrop on the raw, unfiltered conversations that often remain behind closed doors.
The event promises an honest and thought-provoking dialogue about race and identity, inviting attendees to engage with the profound narratives woven throughout the book. Whether exploring the intersections of race and privilege or confronting the legacy of systemic racism, *Our Hidden Conversations* offers a nuanced perspective on the complexities of the American experience.
Moreover, attendees will have the opportunity to acquire signed copies of the book, courtesy of Smithsonian Enterprises, ensuring that the conversation sparked by Norris’s work extends beyond the event itself. The book signing represents a tangible way for individuals to continue engaging with these important issues long after the event concludes.
In an era marked by division and polarization, *Our Hidden Conversations* serves as a beacon of hope, fostering understanding and empathy in the face of deep-seated societal challenges. By shining a light on the narratives often overlooked or ignored, Norris invites readers to confront uncomfortable truths and embrace the complexities of America’s racial landscape.
