Featured Events in Berkeley in February, 2024 (May Updated)

Experience an evening of expanded listening at the Berkeley Alembic in Berkeley, CA. Join the live sound collage and psychoacoustic playlist event titled "Expanded Listening: Special Collections and Intensive Auditions" on February 2, 2024. This captivating event pushes the boundaries of perception, thought, and our baseline sense of the world. Los Angeles-based musician and curator Tim Leanse will begin the evening by sharing a thought-provoking selection of music that compels listeners to reconsider the very act of listening. Using a combination of historical avant-garde recordings and contemporary compositions, Leanse aims to enhance our auditory abilities and challenge preconceived notions of objective perception. The tracklist for the night, "Intensive Auditions," is both exciting and intriguing, playfully exploring the subjective and the psychoacoustic. Leanse will present these tracks in the format of a radio broadcast, providing introductions and insightful commentary. Following Leanse's session, Los Angeles-based artist Sam Rowell will present "Special Collections," a captivating series that utilizes sound collage to study sonic phenomena and phenomenology. Rowell weaves sounds from academic archives, scientific research, field recordings, and other audio obscura into impossible, imaginary soundscapes. By doing so, Rowell prompts audiences to question why things sound the way they do and whether they truly sound like what they are. Don't miss the opportunity to experience this unique live sound collage and psychoacoustic playlist event. Immerse yourself in the world of "Expanded Listening: Special Collections and Intensive Auditions" and discover a new dimension of auditory exploration. Admission is donation-based, so mark your calendars and join us at The Berkeley Alembic on February 2, 2024, for an unforgettable evening.

Join Flux Vertical Theatre (FVT) for an unforgettable evening of elegance, entertainment, and philanthropy at their highly anticipated 2nd Annual Black Tie Gala in Berkeley, CA. This enchanting event will take place on February 3-4, 2024, at the prestigious Flux Vertical Theatre located at 811 University Avenue. Immerse yourself in a night of decadence starting with a VIP Cocktail Reception at 7:00pm, followed by a special VIP Private Show at 8:00pm. General Admission begins at 8:30pm, where you'll be treated to an array of breathtaking performances accompanied by live music. The evening kicks off with a welcome speech at 9:00pm, leading up to the main event at 9:15pm. Indulge in sparkly cocktails, exquisite appetizers, and a silent auction where you can bid on exclusive products and services. Dance the night away with talented performers who have generously donated their art to support FVT's mission of inspiring audiences and nurturing artists in the Bay Area performing arts community. Tickets are available for various experiences, including VIP tables for either 2 or 4 guests, offering an exclusive Red Carpet arrival, front row seating, and an open bar. Seated tickets are also available for general admission. Don't miss this opportunity to celebrate and make a positive impact on the community. Ticket sales directly contribute to supporting FVT's mission. Join FVT at their Annual Black Tie Gala and be a part of this extraordinary event.

Discover the secrets of authors who achieved their dreams of book publishing after the age of 40 at the upcoming event, "How They Did It: Publishing After 40." This installment of the ongoing series, hosted by Litquake and LitCamp, brings together six accomplished authors who found success in the publishing world later in life. Alka Joshi, Anita Amirrezvani, Barbara Graham, Jacqueline E. Luckett, Jane Ganahl, and Mark Ernest Pothier will share their practical advice and inspiring stories in a lively discussion moderated by Janis Cooke Newman, a fellow author who published her first book in her 40s. If you've ever dreamt of writing and publishing a book, this event is a must-attend. Join us at the brand-new Page Street Co-Working space in Berkeley on February 4, 2024. In addition to the engaging conversation, enjoy casual networking opportunities over Prosecco, wine, and fancy nonalcoholic drinks. By purchasing a ticket, you'll not only gain valuable insights but also support both LitCamp and Litquake. Don't miss this chance to learn from the pros and get inspired to make your publishing dreams a reality.

Zero Forms and Movement Situations: Mixed Modal Movement Training is an all-levels class that delves into the many aspects of physical preparedness and foundational movement-skill development. This class aims to establish readiness for various culturally meaningful disciplines, such as dance, contemplative arts, sports, and martial arts, as well as the everyday choreographies of life. Inspired by the movement pedagogy of Jozef Frucek and Linda Kapetanea, known as "Fighting Monkey Practice," this class incorporates elements from Hatha yoga, classical strength and conditioning, contact dance, and more. The focus is on enhancing body awareness, physical and cognitive vitality, and athletic potential. By asking thought-provoking questions, participants are encouraged to explore how their daily movement practices can be self-corrective, generate insight, prevent injuries, and combat physical degeneration and cognitive rigidity. The class also aims to teach participants how to skillfully channel energy and force through their bodies, evenly distribute stresses across joints, and enhance their expressive power. Additionally, participants will learn how to better attune to each other, supporting kinesthetic learning and problem-solving. Throughout the class, participants will engage in a range of exercises, including stillness and postural exercises, joint articulations, and rhythmic coordination patterns. Interactive partner- and object-based games will be incorporated, as well as improvisational scores to encourage spontaneity and re-patterning. The class is designed to be accessible to all skill levels and will cover important concepts such as bases of support, bodyweight centers, rotational axes, weight shifting, locomotion, and elasticity. Zero Forms and Movement Situations: Mixed Modal Movement Training will be led by Michael JMK, a highly experienced movement teacher and physical training coach. Michael has studied FM Practice under the direct guidance of Jozef Frucek and Natalia Pieczuro since 2016. With over 10 years of professional experience in classical strength and conditioning, Michael's focus is on adaptive physical preparedness and movement-skill development for disciplines like dance, yoga, bodywork, and martial arts. Join the class with curiosity and an open mind. Mark your calendars for February 5, 2024, at The Berkeley Alembic in Berkeley, CA. Tickets are available for $15 - $25.

Experience the beauty and elegance of Argentine tango with Mira Barakat in Berkeley! This February, Mira Barakat will be teaching both beginning tango and intermediate tango classes at La Bruja. The beginner class is perfect for absolute beginners and those looking to strengthen their fundamentals, while the intermediate class is recommended for those who have been dancing tango regularly for at least six months. These inclusive classes are open to all genders, non-binary individuals, and members of the LGBTQ+ community. Join us every Wednesday for drop-in classes that focus on connection, communication, and flow. The beginner class runs from 7:00-8:00 pm, followed by the intermediate class from 8:00-9:00 pm. After the classes, there will be a practica from 9:00-10:00 pm. The cost for the beginner or intermediate class is $20, or you can attend both classes for just $35. Students with ID can enjoy a discounted rate of $15. The classes will take place in the ballroom of the Berkeley City Club, conveniently located at 2315 Durant Ave. in Berkeley, CA. We are just a 10-minute walk from Downtown Berkeley BART, and bike parking is available in the back courtyard. Mira Barakat is a talented tango teacher, performer, and singer based in Oakland, CA. With years of experience and a deep love for tango, she brings a unique perspective to her classes. She has studied intensively in Buenos Aires and has performed and taught at tango festivals around the world. Don't miss this opportunity to learn tango from Mira Barakat in Berkeley. Visit mirabarakat.com for more information. This event is organized by Lindsey Newbold.

Zero Forms and Movement Situations: Mixed Modal Movement Training is an all-levels class that explores various facets of physical preparedness and foundational movement-skill development. The class aims to establish readiness for culturally meaningful disciplines such as dance, contemplative arts, sports, or martial arts, as well as the "mundane" choreographies of everyday life. Drawing on the movement pedagogy of Jozef Frucek and Linda Kapetanea, as well as training methods from Hatha yoga, classical strength and conditioning, contact dance, and more, participants will work on multiple layers of body awareness, physical and cognitive vitalization, and athletic potentiation. The practice in this class is animated by questions rather than fixed protocols. Participants will explore how daily movement practices can be self-corrective, generate insight, preempt injury, and forestall physical degeneration and cognitive rigidity. The class will focus on skillfully and safely channeling energy and force through the structure, distributing stresses evenly across the joints, and enhancing expressive power. Participants will also learn to better attune to each other, supporting kinesthetic learning and problem-solving. The class involves a variety of exercises, including durational stillness and postural exercises, integrative joint articulations, dynamic rhythmic coordination patterns, interactive partner- and object-based games, and playful improvisational scores. Participants can expect to gain practical knowledge of embodied concepts such as bases of support, bodyweight centers, rotational axes, weight shifting, locomotion, elasticity, and more. The class also aims to develop capacity for intersubjective awareness, physical empathy and communication, and adaptability to changing rules. Zero Forms and Movement Situations: Mixed Modal Movement Training is led by Michael JMK, a movement teacher and physical training coach with 10+ years of professional experience in classical strength & conditioning. The class welcomes all who come with curiosity and is accessible to all skill levels.

Don't miss out on the opportunity to meet acclaimed children's book creators Gene Luen Yang and LeUyen Pham as they read from and discuss their brand new young adult graphic novel, "Lunar New Year Love Story." This heartwarming rom-com explores themes of fate, family, forgiveness, and lion dancing! Join us at Mrs. Dalloway's Bookstore in Berkeley on Thursday, February 8th for an unforgettable evening. Valentina Tran, the protagonist of this captivating story, used to believe in love, but after discovering the truth behind her parents' separation, she becomes skeptical. However, everything changes when she encounters Leslie and Jae, two lion dancers who hand her a paper heart during a Lunar New Year performance. In that moment, Val feels something again. Could this be her chance to break the family curse and find true love? As National Ambassador for Young People's Literature, Gene Luen Yang is a renowned author and illustrator of comic books and graphic novels. LeUyen Pham, an accomplished artist, has illustrated over one hundred children's books. This event is free, but pre-registration is required due to limited seating. Register now to secure your spot and discover the magic of "Lunar New Year Love Story" firsthand.

Pug Yoga, a unique yoga class featuring adorable pugs, is coming to Berkeley! Hosted at Sports Basement Berkeley on February 10, 2024, this one-of-a-kind event serves as a fundraiser for Pug Rescue of Northern CA. Whether you're a seasoned yogi or a complete beginner, this is an experience you won't want to miss. The class is open to all, and no previous yoga experience is necessary. Arriving at 2pm, participants can enjoy some time before the class begins at 2:30pm. Please bring your own yoga mat and, if you have them, your pugs. The hour-long session promises to be filled with laughter and joy as the lovable pugs join in on the yoga fun. It's the perfect opportunity to bond with your furry friends while supporting a worthy cause. With a ticket price of $32, your contribution goes directly to the Northern CA Pug Rescue. By attending Pug Yoga, you're helping to provide essential care and support for these lovable pugs in need. Mark your calendars and join us for an unforgettable afternoon of Pug Yoga. For more details and to purchase tickets, visit the official website of Pug Rescue of Northern CA at pugpros.org. Don't miss out on this incredible event!

Toward a Counter-Imaginary: A Conversation w/Angela Davis and Isaac Julien is an upcoming event in Berkeley that will be moderated by Judith Butler. This thought-provoking discussion will delve into the intersection of arts, politics, and the pursuit of a more just world. The event is a part of the Imagining Beyond Authoritarianism program and will feature esteemed speakers such as Angela Davis, Distinguished Professor Emerita from the University of California, Santa Cruz, and Isaac Julien, a renowned filmmaker and installation artist who is also a Distinguished Professor of the Arts at the same university. The conversation will be expertly guided by Judith Butler, a Distinguished Professor in the Graduate School at the University of California, Berkeley. This event is made possible by the generous support of the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation and the Vice Chancellor for Research at the University of California, Berkeley. To attend this event, a free seat reservation is required, and reservations are limited to the available seats in the theater. If you are unable to secure a reservation, you can join the day-of waitlist at the Brower Center. The Brower Center is fully accessible for individuals with disabilities, and more information about accessibility can be found on their FAQ page. For any accommodation needs or inquiries, please contact Iliana Morton at ilianamorton@berkeley.edu. Don't miss this incredible opportunity to engage in a meaningful conversation about the arts, politics, and the pursuit of a more just world at Toward a Counter-Imaginary: A Conversation w/Angela Davis and Isaac Julien.

Join the Argentine tango community in Berkeley for an enchanting Valentine's Day experience! Discover the joy of connection, communication, and flow through Mira Barakat's drop-in classes at La Bruja. Whether you are an absolute beginner or have been dancing tango for months, Mira's classes cater to all levels and are LGBTQ+ friendly, ensuring an inclusive and welcoming environment for everyone. The beginner class, held from 7:00 pm to 8:00 pm, focuses on establishing the fundamentals of tango, perfect for those starting their tango journey. The intermediate class, taking place from 8:00 pm to 9:00 pm, is recommended for individuals with at least six months of tango experience. These classes embrace all genders, non-binary individuals, and LGBTQ+ community members. After the classes, from 9:00 pm to 10:00 pm, there will be a practica where you can practice your newly acquired skills. The practica is inclusive and open to all attendees of the classes. The price for the beginner or intermediate class is $20, while attending both classes costs $35. Students with ID can enjoy a discounted rate of $15 for any class. The event will be held at the elegant Berkeley City Club, conveniently located just a 10-minute walk from Downtown Berkeley BART station. Bike parking is available through the service entrance, and additional parking can be found at the nearby Ellsworth Structure for $2 per hour. Mira Barakat, a renowned tango teacher, performer, and singer, will be leading the classes. With her extensive dance background and deep connection to the tango community, Mira is the perfect guide to help you discover the beauty of this passionate dance. Don't miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of Argentine tango and celebrate Valentine's Day with elegance and grace. Visit mirabarakat.com for more information. This event is organized by Lindsey Newbold and hosted by La Bruja Tango Berkeley.

Join bestselling author Renée Watson at Mrs. Dalloway's Bookstore in Berkeley on Thursday, February 15 at 6:00 PM for a special in-store event. Renée will be reading from and discussing her latest book for young adults, BLACK GIRL YOU ARE ATLAS. This semi-autobiographical collection of poems explores Renée's experiences growing up as a young Black girl at the intersections of race, class, and gender. Through a variety of poetic forms, Renée shares her recollections of childhood, pays tribute to the Black women in her life, and empowers Black girls to embrace their future with sisterhood and celebration. Renée Watson is a #1 New York Times bestselling author, educator, and community activist. Her books have sold over one million copies and have received numerous awards and international recognition. Don't miss this opportunity to hear Renée read from her powerful new book and engage in a thought-provoking discussion. Copies of BLACK GIRL YOU ARE ATLAS will be available for purchase, and Renée will be signing books after the presentation. This event is free, but pre-registration is requested. Due to limited seating, early registration is encouraged. Walk-ins will be accommodated if space allows. Please plan to arrive between 5:45 and 6:00 PM for the event. Also, please note that non-support companion animals are not allowed, and the shared restrooms will be inaccessible after 6:30 PM. Don't miss your chance to be a part of this inspiring event. Register now to secure your spot.

The Jill Parker Spring 2024 Choreography Performance Series (Bellydance Fusion) is an exciting opportunity to enhance your belly dance technique and performance skills. This 6-week mixed level workshop series will take place on Fridays, from February 16 to March 22, 2024, at the Spring Fall Dance Studio in Berkeley, California. Led by Jill Parker, renowned choreographer, we will learn a beautiful Bellydance Fusion Choreography to the song "Hasret" by Jeff Stott. The series will culminate with a performance at the prestigious Capital City Raqs belly dance festival in Sacramento on Sunday, March 24th. The classes will be held on Friday evenings from 6:30-8:00 PM, offering 1.5 hours of focused instruction. Located at 2547 Eighth St #20, Berkeley, CA 94710, the Spring Fall Dance Studio provides a comfortable and inspiring environment for learning and practicing. The ticket price for the entire series is $160.00, which also includes admission to the Capital City Raqs festival. During the first class, we will discuss costuming and record some practice sessions for you to continue your progress at home. To ensure you have all the necessary information, we will invite you to join a dedicated Facebook group for this series or provide email updates if you prefer. Spaces for this series are limited, so don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to elevate your belly dance skills. Secure your ticket now and join us for the Jill Parker Spring 2024 Choreography Performance Series in Berkeley.

Join us at Mrs. Dalloway's Bookstore in Berkeley on February 21st at 7:00 PM for an insightful evening with local author Mark Dowie. Mark will be reading from, discussing, and signing copies of his latest book, "Judith Letting Go: Six Months in the World's Smallest Death Cafe". Mark's profound exploration of death and dying is inspired by his friendship with poet and activist Judith Tannenbaum. Together, they formed a two-person death cafe, engaging in thought-provoking conversations about the end of life. In his book, Mark shares Judith's story and reflects on the importance of planning one's death on their own terms. As the undercurrent and overstory of their relationship, death became the focal point of their discussions, leading to a profound understanding of its inevitability. Mark Dowie is a highly regarded author, former publisher and editor of Mother Jones magazine, and founder of Talking Point Radio. With numerous awards to his name, including four National Magazine Awards, Mark brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to this important topic. Attendance to this event is free, but pre-registration is requested due to limited seating. Please arrive between 6:45 and 7:00 PM to ensure your spot. Kindly note that non-support companion animals are not permitted, and our shared restrooms may not be accessible after 6:30 PM. Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights into the human art of releasing everything that matters in preparation for the inevitable. Mark Dowie's "Judith Letting Go" is a must-read for those interested in the right to plan one's own death.

Alligator Lizards in the Air: Integration Through Creative Expression is a monthly event held at The Berkeley Alembic in Berkeley, CA. This event offers a unique opportunity for individuals to explore their internal landscapes through creative expression. Led by visionary artist Krisztina Lazar, participants can use various art mediums, such as paint, colored pencils, crayons, and markers, to bring their experiences to life on paper and canvas. The class is open to everyone, regardless of their art background, and only requires an open mind and a willingness to explore. Krisztina Lazar, a visionary artist specializing in oil paint, watercolor, and drawing, will guide participants in realizing their experiences through her transformative style. She is a Mische Technique lineage holder, which combines oil and egg tempera painting to create opalescent under paintings that are then glazed over, resulting in vivid and fractal images. Inspired by visionary pioneer Brigid Marlin, Krisztina's current body of work explores a hybrid of Mische and Alla Prima techniques, producing hyperealistic sacred art. Her paintings reflect themes of pop shamanism, the occult, magic, psychedelics, and the environment movement, resonating with today's cultural climate. Originally from Cleveland, OH, Krisztina Lazar earned her BFA from Carnegie Mellon University and her MFA graduate degree from the San Francisco Art Institute. Her artwork has been exhibited in group and solo shows across the United States and Europe, including the H.R. Geiger museum in Gruyere, Switzerland. She also teaches her unique painting styles to students in both group and private settings. For those interested in exploring their creative expression and integrating their altered states of consciousness, Alligator Lizards in the Air is an opportunity not to be missed. Tickets for Alligator Lizards in the Air: Integration Through Creative Expression are available for $15 - $20. Don't miss the chance to join this transformative event on February 24, 2024 at The Berkeley Alembic in Berkeley, CA.

Join the Community Figure Drawing Session at the Kala Art Gallery & Community Classroom in Berkeley. This event is open to individuals aged 18 and above who are interested in figure drawing. The session will take place on February 26, 2024, from 6pm to 9pm. Participants will have the opportunity to draw from a model for the full three hours. The Kala staff, who are practicing artists themselves, will be there to facilitate the session and provide drawing boards and standing easels. While basic materials such as charcoal, graphite, and newsprint will be available, participants are encouraged to bring their preferred tools and surfaces. The session will consist of both short poses (1 - 5 minutes) and longer poses (10 - 20 minutes). A sliding scale cost of $20 - $35 applies, and RSVPs are required due to limited spots. Please note that this is an open studio drawing session and not an instructional class, although Kala facilitators will be available for drawing advice upon request. The figure model will be unclothed throughout the session, and mask-wearing is recommended but optional. Water will be provided, and participants are welcome to bring their own snacks and drinks. Kala reserves the right to cancel the session if needed, and refunds may be available upon request. Don't miss this opportunity to engage in the art of figure drawing in a supportive and creative environment.

Investigate the hidden nature of color in a captivating exploration of undulating fields of color, bursts of dazzling flashes, and moments of enveloping darkness. Indeterminate Perception and the Color Unconscious invites you to embark on an enlightening journey, delving into the perception of light in the non-visual centers of the brain. This thought-provoking event at The Berkeley Alembic in Berkeley, CA unveils a site-specific installation of lights and an array of audio electronics masterfully orchestrated by Sam Rowell, a renowned musician, visual artist, and creative broadcaster based in Los Angeles. Rowell's mesmerizing performance skillfully blends improvisation, treating audiences to immersive experiences of vibrant hues and otherworldly soundscapes. Her expansive practice of perceptual play is both visually striking and sensorially captivating. By embracing a collective reception and live performance approach, Rowell delves into the realm of subjective experience, not only exploring color itself but also incorporating the diverse perceptions and sensations of the audience. This exploration raises intriguing questions about our ability to articulate what we see and whether our words can truly capture a consensus reality. Don't miss this remarkable event, Indeterminate Perception and the Color Unconscious, where you can witness the convergence of light and sound in a truly unique and introspective manner. Mark your calendars for February 3, 2024, and join us at The Berkeley Alembic for an unforgettable evening of artful exploration. Admission is by donation, allowing everyone to participate in this extraordinary experience of color and perception.

La Peña Cultural Center in Berkeley is pleased to announce the return of their popular Intermediate Salsa, Bachata & Merengue Dance Class Series. Taking place on Mondays from February 5th to March 4th, 2024, this 4-week series is designed for beginner to intermediate students looking to enhance their skills in these three popular Latin dance styles. Led by Venezuelan dance instructor Juliana Mendonca, this inclusive class welcomes participants of all genders, non-binary individuals, and LGBTQ+ community members. Juliana's teaching style focuses on connecting with your body and the rhythms before diving into the steps and turns. This foundation allows students to develop their authentic feel for each dance genre and its unique rhythm. No partner is necessary to join. Please note that this is the second round of the Intermediate Class Series, following the success of the Beginners Dance Class Series. If you haven't taken the Beginners class yet, it is recommended to register for that one first. The series will consist of four classes, held on Mondays from 7:30pm to 8:30pm, excluding February 19th. The tuition cost for the entire series is $94. Drop-ins are not available, so make sure to purchase your registration in advance. As a bonus perk, students will receive a FREE ticket to an upcoming BAILA! Community Dance Party. La Peña Cultural Center is committed to creating a safe and inclusive space for all participants. Their Community Agreements emphasize respect, thoughtful communication, consent, and honoring everyone's gender identity and pronouns. For any questions or inquiries, please contact classes@lapena.org. We look forward to welcoming you to the La Peña Cultural Center soon!

Join the exciting and family-friendly February Kidical Mass bike ride in Berkeley! This event is perfect for all ages and skill levels, providing a fun opportunity to support safe biking for kids and everyone. The ride will begin at the James Kenney Community Center in Berkeley and end in Emeryville. Be part of this amazing experience and remember that everyone is welcome! To enhance safety, there will be complimentary bike bells and reflective vests available for participants. Additionally, a dedicated team of individuals will be present to block traffic and ensure the group stays together during the ride. However, please be aware that cycling is at your own risk. We are thrilled to announce that John Bauters, America's Bike Mayor and candidate for Alameda County Supervisor, will be joining us as a special guest for this ride. John has been a strong advocate for biking in Emeryville and across the nation, and his presence adds an extra level of excitement to the event. After the ride, head over to the Townhouse Restaurant in Emeryville for a delectable treat. They will be providing complimentary sampling bites from their menu, allowing you to refuel and relax. In addition, there will be free mini-doughnuts available, as well as a convenient bike valet service. Don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity to enjoy a leisurely bike ride while supporting safe biking for children and the entire community. Mark your calendars for February 10th, 2024, and remember that admission to the event is completely free. We look forward to seeing you there!

Join the esteemed author Line Papin for an engaging reading and Q&A session as she delves into her debut English translation, The Girl Before Her. This exclusive event, which will take place in the sophisticated atmosphere of the Maude Fife Room in Berkeley, invites you to explore the depths of Papin's work. Moderated by the renowned writer and journalist Mel Kritikopoulos, this thought-provoking discussion promises to be a truly enlightening experience. Line Papin's lyrical autofiction is a captivating blend of meditation, family history, and a heartfelt message to her younger selves. Through her work, she delves into the intricate process of embracing one's multiracial and transnational identity by reconciling with the generations of women who have preceded us. This event is made possible by the support of esteemed sponsors such as The Dept of French, The Dept of English, The Francophone Studies Working Group, The Global Vietnam Studies Working Group, and the Diasporic Vietnamese Artists Network (DVAN). Mark your calendars for this remarkable occasion on February 28, 2024, and immerse yourself in the captivating world of Line Papin. Please note that admission to this event is free, allowing you to engage with Papin's profound insights without any financial barriers. Don't miss this exclusive opportunity to be a part of a conversation that delves into the depths of identity, heritage, and the power of storytelling.