Black History Month 2023 – The Power of Storytelling (Virtual Book Discussion)

Every February, Black History Month recognizes the accomplishments, contributions, and legacy of African Americans in U.S. history and society, from activists and civil rights pioneers to leaders in business, politics, academia, culture, and more.

The Consulate General of Switzerland in Atlanta regularly engages in the Black History Month celebrations to honor the importance of African Americans in shaping the American nation. This year, we want to highlight the transformative power of storytelling and its potential to raise awareness and bring about change for a social cause. Throughout human history, stories and narratives have been an essential way of connecting with an audience and appealing to hearts and minds. They enable us to understand a different experience of the world, and thus enhance our empathy. In the struggle for social justice and equality, storytelling was, and still is, of particular importance to the history of Black people.

In this context, the Consulate General of Switzerland in Atlanta organizes a virtual book discussion on the book “I will be different every time: Black Women in Biel” on February 23, 2023, 1pm-2pm EST.

In collaboration with the Auburn Avenue Research Library, the Consulate General of Switzerland in Atlanta will virtually host Fork Burke (Editor) and Myriam Diarra (Editor) who, in conversation with Dr. Stephane Dunn, will discuss their latest publication “I will be different every time: Black Women in Biel”. They will provide an insider look into their book which explores the historical and contemporary lived experiences of Black women from the town of Biel/Bienne [Switzerland]. In addition to shedding light on this extraordinary part of the global Black diaspora, Fork Burke and Myriam Diarra will speak on the importance of storytelling and share ideas on the legacy writing process that preserves the histories of the Black diaspora for future generations.