Lecture Series: Maple Leaf & Stars and Stripes

This interdisciplinary lecture series offers a variety of historical, political, ethnographic as well as literary perspectives on contemporary events and topics from the neighboring North American countries that meet at the 49th parallel: Canada and the United States. Scholars from North America as well as Germany will take a critical look at a variety of issues.

Each lecture lasts roughly 1 hour and is either interactive or followed by a lively question-and-answer session. For an overview of the various topics, please download the posters below or in the Material section of myStudy. The lectures are open to all students, faculty, and the general public. Everyone is welcome to bring a friend!

“From Aztlán to Leuphana: Chicano Philosophy as a Bridge over Physical and Mental Frontiers"
- November 28, 18:15-19:45, C40.256

Join us for an academic talk featuring Enrique García de la Garza, an award-winning translator, titled “From Aztlán to Leuphana: Chicano Philosophy as a Bridge over Physical and Mental Frontiers.” In his talk on November 28, 2024, from 18:15 to 19:45 in C40.256, García de la Garza will explore the origin of Chicano culture, examining its historical roots and its development in the U.S.-Mexico border context. By taking a historical approach, he will address the main themes of Chicano philosophy, such as origin, identity, and resistance. Further topics include the relationship of Chicano philosophy to Mexican philosophy to show how the two disciplines influence the understanding of the Mexican and Chicano experience in the United States today.
 

“Funny Women, Funny Bodies: Recent Stand-up Comedy by Women in the U.S."
- December 5, 18:15-19:45, Zoom

Join us for an academic lecture featuring Nele Sallawisch from University Trier titled, “Funny Women, Funny Bodies: Recent Stand-up Comedy by Women in the U.S.” on Dec. 5, 2024, from 18:15 to 19:45 on Zoom (Meeting ID: 950 8960 0720, Kenncode: 662349). This academic talk considers stand-up comedy by women in the U.S. from the last 10 to 15 years to tease out how they use the stage as "unruly women" (Kathleen Rowe Karlyn). Examples from performers such as Ali Wong, Tig Notaro, and Wanda Sykes address women's lives and women's rights in various ways, with the body as a central focalizer that seems hard to get rid of. The talk offers thoughts on the relationship between female--and/or feminist--comedians and the relevance of comedy about and with the body.
 

“Looking Forward? American Democracy after the Elections”
- December 12, 18:15-19:45, HS3

Join us for an academic lecture featuring Boris Vormann from Bard College Berlin, titled "Looking Forward? American Democracy after the Elections" on Dec. 12, 2024, from 18:15-19:45 in HS 3. In this critical examination, Vormann will analyze the recent electoral outcomes and their broader implications for democratic governance in the United States. He will delve into emerging trends, shifts in voter engagement, and the pressing challenges confronting American democracy in a polarized political environment. The discussion will also address the roles of public discourse and civic participation in fostering a resilient democratic framework. This lecture promises to provide valuable insights for scholars, students, and anyone interested in the future of democracy in America.