Event Recap: Humanitini- Conversations on Great Streets: Mount Pleasant!

 

The Humanities Council hosted HUMANITINI ™, the smart happy hour, on Thursday, April 24 at Don Juan Restaurant. This edition of Humanitini, “Conversations on Great Streets: Celebrating Historic Mount Pleasant Street” was moderated by Washington City Paper Journalist Aaron Weiner. The conversation offered attendees a perspective on the history, culture, and heritage of the vibrant Mt. Pleasant street corridor and community.

Panelists included Alberto Ferrufino owner of Don Juan Restaurant, Pedro Aviles, founder of Aviles Associates, LLC and Peter Stebbins, a 25 year resident of Mt. Pleasant.

Approximately 60 attendees filled Don Pablo Restaurant and they both learned and shared their perspectives on the changing Mount Pleasant demographics, business climate and opportunities for growth.

Conversations on Great Streets is a series created by the Humanities Council to engage residents around the history and great treasures of some of D.C.’s well-known corridors.

Take a look at photos from Humanitini, and stay connected with the Humanities Council for upcoming events.

Recapping the Humanitini

Two Panel Discussions Demonstrate the Continued Importance of the Humanities.

By Maria Galiano

Last week, while the streets of D.C. experienced a small preview of the weekend's winter storm, happy hour met the humanities at the council’s first Humanitini event of 2014, “Who Needs the Humanities Anyway?” The event opened with a screening of Lance Kramer's The Scholar and the Sailor, a short film that tells the story of how a professor’s book served as an inspiration for Greg White, a former prison inmate. Kramer was then joined by White and Dr. W. Jefferey Bolster for the first panel discussion of the evening. 

After getting his hands on Dr. W Jefferey Bolster's book, Black Jacks: African American Seamen in the Age of Sail, White decided to write a letter to Bolster to share his life experiences including his service in the United States Navy. In his first letter, White mentioned how reading the pages of Black Jacks reminded him of how much he missed being at sea, and how the stories of African American sailors carving out their own sense of freedom encouraged him to incorporate seafaring into his post-incarceration life. One of the most inspiring moments of Thursday's Humanitini was Bolster’s statement that the humanities allowed him and White to connect, and that the connection was mutually beneficial.  Another was White’s reminder that no cloud should ever be too dark to keep you from sailing your ship of life.  

Following this poignant of example of the power of the humanities disciplines, the focus of the event shifted to examine the state of the humanities more broadly. The second panel brought on Lacey Dunham of the effervescent youth creative writing non-profit 826DC, Esther Mackintosh of the Federation of State Humanities Councils, Tia Brown McNair of the Association of American Colleges and Universities, and Nafisa Isa of Busboys and Poets. 

This enlightening panel discussion, made it clear that the humanities have been, and continue to be, an important tool in our present-day globalized world. The humanities disciplines link us and allow us to communicate. Panelists also addressed the subject of the employment rate for liberal arts/humanities majors, noting that many employers seek the research and analytical expertise gained through these areas of study. Though it is commonly contended that the STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) disciplines are the only sure path to employment opportunities after graduation, the panelists reassured the audience that students who are learned in the humanities acquire essential skills that are required both in and outside the workplace. Kramer, returning for the second panel noted that while the cutting edge in the STEM disciplines changes as technologies develop, humans will likely interact with each other in consistent ways for the foreseeable future. 

One most of the most time-tested debates against the humanities disciplines is that their study is reserved for the children of the wealthy; those who have less need to learn a practical skill. Isa countered this argument by calling attention to the humanities disciplines' unique ability to give a voice to the underrepresented. The ability to understand the, often invisible, human-made systems that guide our lives can prevent those systems from become intrusive, unfair, and oppressive. 

The panel concluded with the reminder that our focus should not be on the metrics of employment rates, but rather on the long-term benefits that the humanities provides us.

So who needs the humanities anyway? Well, as our Humanitini event demonstrated, we all do! 

Don't U Forget As U Walk On By!

A glimpse into past and present day U Street

By Maria Galiano

If you are a resident of the nation's capital, then you probably already love the one and only, famous U Street. From its iconic Ben's Chili Bowl diner to its venerable Victorian era architecture, U Street screams D.C. culture!

A row of historic homes just off the U Street Corridor.

Although modern U Street may be known for its exquisite style, U Street's memory bank is rich with history that is worth preserving and celebrating! The row houses tell the story of the post-civil war era when housing was in great demand in the city. At first glance, these houses might look identical to each other, but if you take the time to appreciate each block, you'll realize that each house has its own unique features that contribute to this city's collective mosaic! And speaking of the community, it is impossible to overestimate the importance of Civil Rights Era in U Street's history. Though the neighborhood was long a bastion of African American business, and self determination, following the 1968 assassination of civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., riots exploded around the U Street corridor. Businesses were hurt and the community was affected, but there is no doubt that the U Street managed to get back on its feet!

And who can forget the great culture of U Street?! The performing arts are an integral part of this community's culture. The Howard Theatre built its historical reputation in the early part of the twentieth century. At a time when African Americans were excluded from white cultural opportunities in other parts of the city, this location allowed many African Americans to come and establish a place that reflected a sense of community. Many famous artists such as James Brown and The Temptations showcased their talents on this theater's stage! Special audience members, such as President Franklin D. Roosevelt, attended performances at Howard Theatre Oral testimonies from community members who remember growing up and having Howard Theater become a special and central place in their everyday lives can be found in DCDM's item Memories of the Howard Theatre. The Lincoln Theatre is also remembered as a welcoming place for its community members. In fact, Washington's D.C.'s  very own Duke Ellington began his career as an rising star at the Lincoln Theatre. Located next to Ben's Chili Bowl, the Lincoln Theatre echoes a time when french horns and trumpets played to the rhythm of Jazz!

Now we fast forward to present day U Street... And CVS.Yes, those red-logo, brown buildings that have been built in what seems to be every corner of this town make up a major part D.C.'s businesses. But U Street is also home to other business sites, such as Busboys and Poets, Lee's Flower and Card Shop, and Sorg Architects. Busboys and Poets provides a pleasant and amicable atmosphere to its customers! After enjoying a delicious meal, customers are able enjoy the artwork display at the restaurant. It is a delicious way to satisfy a lunch craving and a fun way to feed the creative mind! If you ever forget mom's birthday or the fact that it is Valentine's Day, U Street's Lee's Flower and Card Shop can come in handy with its same day delivery service!With its heartwarming cards and great customer service, it is no surprise that Lee's Flower and Card Shop was and still is a family operating business! And a look into Anacostia High School, reveals the inspired restoration that Sorg Architects has completed over the last few years. As mentioned in Celebrating U Street: A Washington DC Great Street, (footage from the program can be found in the DCDM), these businesses contribute to the flavor and energy of U Street!

 So as you walk on by U Street, don't  U forget about its historical past, and don't U  forget to appreciate its alluring present! 

A Perspective on the Humanities

Collections Management Intern, Maria Galiano Offers Her Perspective on the Importance of Preserving Historical Narratives

By Maria Galiano

A current philosophical debate in the history department raises the question of whether history should solely be taught through facts or through narratives. I say why not both? In stating facts, one must tell a story as a historical background for those facts, and in telling a story, one must state the facts in order to create the legitimacy of the historical narrative.

In order to keep history alive, we preserve it. Just like monuments and museums make tribute to certain people and events, preservation serves as an artifact that truly tells a story.

Many forget that history plays a big role in allowing us to tie the present with the past. The In the Shadow of the Capitol series documents a symposium that celebrates the memories of several intellectual minds of D.C., such as Sterling A. Brown, Owen Dodson, Gloria Oden, Harold Chinn, and Anne Cook Reid. These speakers discuss various topics including segregation in the arts and in education.
From documentary films to oral history collections, the DC Digital Museum celebrates the cultural history of the Washington, D.C. community.

Members of the community can learn a great deal about their society through local history. Being a part of history is impressive, but preserving and celebrating it is imperative.


White Footsteps

The soft, cold white blankets of snow are covering Washington again
As I walk through Logan Circle, I see the footsteps that have been left before me
Some are big. Some are small. Some have been wiped away
And I reminded that I am not alone
There is a community
It is what brings us all to a state of unity
I pause for a second and ask myself,
Why don’t I know more about this beautiful place?
Memorials and buildings are a constant reminder,
A reminder of the history that took place before and after

It’s one of the coldest winters yet,
And I realize that I am in debt…
I owe some time to the story of past and present Washingtonians
I owe some time to this town’s kaleidoscopical history
I owe some time to D.C.’s memory

And so I thank these white footsteps
For reminding me that I cannot be whole
Without including the story of my community,
Without learning much, much more

Who Needs the Humanities Anyway?

Join us at The Coupe for an exciting Humantini conversation on the future of the Humanities

When

6:30-8pm

February 13, 2014

Where

The Coupe

3415 11th Street, NW

Washington, DC 20010

Register for this FREE Program 

http://humanitinifeb2014.eventbrite.com

This panel discussion will demystify the recent rhetoric on the plight of the humanities. As a result, we hope the program will shift the tone of the conversation from "decline" and "crisis" to one of celebration. In doing so, we will highlight the impact and accomplishments of the Humanities inside and outside the academy.  

The program will feature a lively discussion that expresses varied perspectives on the Humanities disciplines' local and national impact. The panel will feature a Humanities Council grantee, Nafisa Isa, Project Manager for Marketing and Events at Busboys and Poets and Founder of Kahani a cultural salon series in Washington, DC, as well as Esther Mackintosh, a national advocate for the advancement of the public humanities and President of the Federation of State Humanities Councils. 

Join us to engage in this important conversation that is getting major attention from the halls of the Academy to the chambers of Capitol Hill. You may find out that you are already benefiting from the Humanities!

The Dream That Was Heard

"Free at last! Free at Last!..." Fifty one years ago, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. delivered an empowering speech that echoed from the footsteps of the Lincoln Memorial to around the globe.

By Maria Galiano

The dream of which he spoke seemed to be an unattainable reality for society at the time, but was nevertheless an inspiration to the masses. This upcoming Monday, the country will celebrate Dr. King's life as it observes the Martin Luther King Day holiday.

A special piece that can be found in our DC Digital Museum documents the council's 2008 symposium, "Giving Freedom A World Voice", dedicated to the commemoration of the global legacy of Dr. King. Acquaintances and guest speakers delivered speeches on Dr. King's life. It is almost as if Dr. King's intensity had lingered on to the words of these speakers, as one can see and feel the passion that each speaker is filled with. The 2008 presidential election of President Barack Obama was discussed as being a symbol of the inspiration and influence that Dr. King left behind. Performers of various cultures from local choir members to Cambodian Buddhist dancers were invited to attend this event. What better way to represent Dr. King's global legacy than through the unity of different cultures? "Giving Freedom A World Voice" symbolized the idea of feeling a connection not only within our country, but with the rest of the world as well.

"Thank God almighty we are free at last!"  August 28th marks the day that Dr. King's words served as drop of caffeine that awoke a divided nation. The council's "Giving Freedom A World Voice" film documentary reminds us that Dr. King's life and accomplishments have remained an inspiration worldwide.

Humanities Council Now Accepting Board Member Nominations

An Invitation to Serve, An Opportunity to Connect

Board Chair Bradford Grant distributes grantee awards with
Executive Director, Joy Ford Austin (left).

The Humanities Council of Washington, DC seeks nominations to its Board of Directors. All nominees must be residents of the District of Columbia.  Nominations should be accompanied by: a resume and a letter explaining why the nominee would be a valuable addition to the Board.  Nominees can be recommended or self nominated.

Board Members are appointed for a three-year term, with re-nomination possible for a second term.  Commitments include

• Stewardship of this 34 year old organization that provides humanities programs and grants to city residents 

• Financial support

• A passion for promoting the humanities

Benefits include outstanding opportunities to connect with people across the city who are civically engaged and enjoy participating in the city’s life.

In electing individuals to serve, the Council strives for geographical and ethnic representation, and for balance between academic and public spheres.  From the academic sector, the Board elects teachers, scholars, and educational executives. Public nominees represent a variety of professional backgrounds, including but not limited to business, labor, law, technology, public relations, and cultural and civic organizations.  Board Members serve without compensation.

Please e-mail your information by January 31st to:

Mr. Gregory Jefferson, Chair, Nominations Committee

Humanities Council of Washington, DC

jaustin@wdchumanities.org

 

The Humanities Council has a proven track record for sparking civic dialogue and reflection using the humanities disciplines. Centered in our Nation’s Capital, we reach over 250,000 citizens every year, including 17,000 children through our grants and programs,  The Council is an affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities; however it is a private, non-profit organization and not a federal or District agency. 

The mission of the Humanities Council is to enrich the quality of life, foster intellectual stimulation, and promote cross-cultural understanding and appreciation of local history in all neighborhoods of the District through humanities programs and grants.  The Humanities Council of Washington, DC transforms lives through the power of the Humanities..