Have you experienced prejudice or discrimination in your life? Those moments can be hard to talk about and hard to share with other people.
Connect with a collection of people who are willing to discuss openly their personal accounts of discrimination at the Human Library event on Feb. 11, 2024, in Gainesville. The event will be held at 2 p.m. in Santa Fe College’s Blount Hall located at 530 West University Avenue.
During the event, volunteers, known as “human books,” will represent different groups in our society that are commonly discriminated against. According to the Human Library, there are a total of 13 groups that make up the “Pillars of Prejudice.” The pillars are mental health, addictions, gender, religion, lifestyle, family relations, ethnicity, disabilities, health, occupation, sexual orientation, social status, and victims.
The human books will share their stories of prejudice and members of the audience, known as “readers,” will have an opportunity to ask questions. The intent is to spark a conversation, challenge stereotypes, and create dialogue between the readers and human books that can bridge social divides.
There will be a range of sensitive topics discussed during the event. Some of the topics could be triggering to certain individuals. Please be aware that anyone attending the event will be involved in frank discussions about discrimination, prejudice, and bigotry. Parental discretion is advised
The Human Library Organization, which created this event, is a non-profit learning platform that originated in Denmark. The organization partners with groups around the world to put on events designed to create a safe space for dialogue. At these events, traumatic experiences with prejudice and discrimination are openly discussed in a respectful manner.
This event is sponsored by Altrusa International of Gainesville in partnership with the Alachua County Library District, Santa Fe College, and the International Human Library Organization.
Human Library FAQs
- Where did the Human Library start?
The Human Library concept originated in Denmark in 2000 and spread to 70 countries. The organization strives to challenge prejudice and prevent conflicts by building empathy through dialogue. Learn more at humanlibrary.org.
- Who looks out for the Books?
Readers are instructed to ask any questions with respect, curiosity, and engagement in listening. They are told that books may decline to answer some questions, and will be sharing their experiences in order to shed light on their journeys. Human Library Librarians accompany the Books throughout the event and are present during conversations.
- Do I need to sign up to attend?
No, you do not need to register to attend this event. The event is free. However, you must arrive by 2 p.m. for the introduction in order to participate.
- Where is the event?
The 2024 Human Library will be held Sunday, Feb. 11, at 2 p.m. at Santa Fe College's Blount Hall located at 530 West University Avenue, Gainesville FL