The Pushing the Boundaries series is a unique and dynamic virtual speaker event hosted by the University of Alberta, dedicated to showcasing innovative and groundbreaking research from a diverse range of disciplines. This series aims to inspire and challenge traditional ways of thinking, pushing the boundaries of knowledge and encouraging interdisciplinary collaboration.
The latest event in the series featured Dr. Stephanie R. Toliver, a renowned scholar and educator whose work delves into the intersections of race, gender, and technology. With her thought-provoking talk on “From Endarkened Storywork to Histofuturism,” Dr. Toliver captivated the audience and shed light on important issues that are shaping our world today.
Endarkened Storywork, as Dr. Toliver explained, is a term coined by herself and her colleagues to describe the process of uncovering and understanding the lived experiences of marginalized communities through storytelling. This approach challenges traditional academic methods and instead centers the voices and narratives of those who have been historically silenced.
Drawing on her own personal experiences and research, Dr. Toliver highlighted the importance of embracing and centering diverse perspectives in our understanding of history and society. She emphasized the need to move away from a Eurocentric view of history and towards a more inclusive approach, one that recognizes and values the contributions of diverse communities.
In her talk, Dr. Toliver also introduced the concept of Histofuturism, a term that she and her colleagues developed to envision alternative futures that are rooted in marginalized communities’ experiences and perspectives. By bringing together the past, present, and future, Histofuturism allows us to imagine a more equitable and just world and motivates us to work towards achieving it.
The lively Q&A session following the talk was a testament to the impact of Dr. Toliver’s work and the importance of discussing and addressing issues of race, gender, and technology. The audience, comprising of students, faculty, and community members, engaged in thoughtful and insightful discussions, showcasing the power of interdisciplinary collaboration.
The Pushing the Boundaries series, organized by the University of Alberta’s Faculty of Arts, has been a resounding success since its inception. It provides a platform for researchers and scholars to share their innovative ideas and research, fostering collaboration and inspiring new perspectives. This initiative aligns with the university’s commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion and reflects its vision of being a leader in creating a more equitable and just society.
In conclusion, Dr. Toliver’s talk on Endarkened Storywork and Histofuturism was an enlightening and thought-provoking experience. It highlighted the importance of valuing and centering diverse perspectives, challenging traditional ways of thinking, and envisioning a more inclusive and equitable future. The Pushing the Boundaries series continues to push the boundaries of knowledge and inspire positive change, making it a must-attend event for anyone passionate about creating a better world for all.
