Category: Arts and Culture

Author Talk — Radical Connecticut: People’s History In the Constitution State

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by New Haven Free Public Library

On Thursday, May 14, from 6 to 7:30 p.m., author Andy Piascik will discuss his new book Radical Connecticut: People’s History In The Constitution State, in the community program room of the Ives Main Library, 133 Elm Street, New Haven.

Radical Connecticut: People’s History in the Constitution State tells the stories of everyday people and well-known figures whose work has often been obscured, denigrated, or dismissed. There are narratives of movements, strikes, popular organizations and people in Connecticut who changed the state and the country for the better.

Bridgeport native Andy Piascik is a long-time activist and award-winning writer whose work has appeared in many publications and on many websites. He is the author of the novel In Motion. Radical Connecticut: People’s History in the Constitution State is his fourth book. 

Creative Voices of New Haven Youth

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by Sarah Ficca, Yale Schwarzman Center

Fifty-three young artists living in the New Haven community will present their work in five dynamic exhibitions at Yale Schwarzman Center [168 Grove St., where Woolsey Hall is]. All exhibitions are free and open to the public. The colorful exhibitions highlight creative work from New Haven high school students, Yale undergraduate students, and Yale graduate students. These artists bring a wide range of experience from professional to self-taught, and their works encompass a wide array of mediums and art practices. Curated by the Schwarzman Center’s Associate Director of Venues and Exhibitions Carlynne Robinson, the exhibitions open April 7. https://schwarzman.yale.edu/exhibitions

  • Call-to-Connect – Interactive sculpture featuring old-fashioned phone booths, phone books, and audio recordings, on display in the Rotunda.
  • The View from Here: Accessing Art Through Photography – Photography by New Haven high school students who completed a course of instruction and produced work using smartphone cameras, and on display in the Presidents’ Gallery. A collaboration with Yale Schwarzman Center and Yale British Art Center.
  • West of the River – Photography for a Yale MFA thesis exploring themes of place and on display in The Well Gallery extension.
  • Rooted in Heritage: Art Across Yale’s Cultural Centers – Two-dimensional artworks by professional and self-taught student artists, selected by Yale’s Cultural Centers and on display in The Well Gallery.
  • Storyboard: Poetry and the Everyday – Digital exhibition focused on the theme of poetry, showcasing audio, video, written work, and visual arts, on display in the virtual gallery on the Schwarzman Center’s website.

“We are immensely proud to spotlight the depth and variety of more than 50 students with different interests, backgrounds, and artistic styles,” said Associate Director of Venues and Exhibitions, Carlynne Robinson.

These exhibitions encompass extraordinary work by talented artists on our campus, as well as throughout our New Haven community. The vision for these wide-ranging exhibitions speaks directly to our mission and goals.” added Executive Director of Yale Schwarzman Center, Rachel Fine.

Yale Schwarzman Center is a center for student life and the arts at the historic heart of the Yale University campus. Yale Schwarzman Center produces programs and collaborative arts experiences geared toward audiences within and beyond the Yale campus. Plan your visit today by reaching out to sarah.ficca@yale.edu https://schwarzman.yale.edu/location-hours.

Mother’s Day Tribute Garden News

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by Paula Panzarella, West River Peace Garden

On Saturday, May 9 at 11 a.m., we invite you to take part in the first Mother’s Day Tribute in the expanded area of the West River Peace Garden. In case of rain, the gathering will be on Sunday, May 17, at 2 p.m.

The West River Peace Garden features blooming native perennials, a magnolia tree, and a Ginkgo tree (grown from a cutting of a Ginkgo that survived the atomic bombing of Hiroshima in 1945). Now we have a circular garden to the north side (near MLK Blvd.), developed through the initiative of a neighbor who felt the need for Mother’s Day to include paying homage to mothers who have passed on.

We hope you’ll bring a plant for the garden in memory of your mother. Share a story about your mom, listen to music, decorate a stone to put in the garden, and meet the neighbors.

The West River Peace Garden is by Ella Grasso Blvd. between Legion Ave. and MLK Blvd. We work in the garden every Friday from 9:30-11:30 a.m. and welcome all volunteers. For info, call 203-350-3795. Our website is westriverpeacegarden.org.

Film & Panel Discussion: ‘The Day Iceland Stood Still’, 5-7:30 p.m. March 11

The Psychology Department at SCSU invites you to a viewing of the documentary, The Day Iceland Stood Still, followed by a panel discussion about gender equity and women’s rights at 5 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. at the Adanti Student Center – Theater.

Panelists include the writer/director of the film, the chair of the Women’s & Gender Studies Department at SCSU, and a local woman who attended the strike in 1975. Moderated by Adjunct Professor Laura Noe, who teaches the Psychology of Women.

The Day Iceland Stood Still tells the story of the Oct. 24, 1975, strike when 90% of the women in Iceland did not go to work to demonstrate the impact they have on the economy. For 50 years, they have led the world in gender equity, and their government leaders are all women, as are 48% of their parliament.

After we watch the documentary, we will have a panel discussion. Three panelists will join us: Pam Hogan, writer and director of The Day Iceland Stood Still; Dr. Yi-Chun Tricia Lin, Taiwanese feminist scholar and chair of Women’s & Gender Studies at SCSU; and Hanna Luden, who attended the strike with her mom in 1975.

What the Library Means to Me: A Campaign to Celebrate the Library’s Impact Throughout New Haven; and News About Mardi Gras

by Heather Robison, New Haven Free Public Library Foundation

The New Haven Free Public Library Foundation is thrilled to announce the launch of What the Library Means to Me, sponsored by BLOOM and curated by Kulturally LIT. What the Library Means to Me will be a citywide-authored program book for community members to share their personal stories and reflections on the significance of the New Haven Free Public Library in their lives. This initiative is designed not only to celebrate the library’s pivotal role in our community but also to create a citywide-authored booklet that will preserve participants’ heartfelt narratives for generations to come.

The campaign aims to engage library patrons of all ages—children, teens, and adults. Through various methods of story collection, including online submissions, social media engagement, and in-person storytelling workshops, we hope to gather a diverse array of experiences that highlight the library as a cultural and educational hub.

Community members can submit their stories via email (charitablegiving@nhfpl.org), share on social media using the hashtag #NHFPLibraryStories, and participate in live storytelling events at the library branches. For more information on how to participate, visit NHFPL.org or contact Heather Robison at charitablegiving@nhfpl.org.

The campaign will culminate in a community event, the NHFPL Foundation’s highly anticipated annual Mardi Gras event: The Big Easy at Ives, taking place 5:30-8:30 p.m. on Feb. 17  (storm date: Feb. 20 at 5:30-8:30 p.m.) at Ives Main Library, 133 Elm St., where the collected stories will be presented and Claire Criscuolo and Shamain (Sha) McAllister will be honored for their contributions. For info and tickets: https://tinyurl.com/nhfplmardigras or email charitablegiving@nhfpl.org.

Judith Ann Schiff Women’s History Film Series

This winter film series will raise the issues faced by women as clerical workers, factory workers, and teachers from across the nation. All of the films will allow time for questions and discussion. Advance registration is required.

Made in L.A. — Saturday, January 31

When We Fight — Sunday, February 1

9to5: The Story of a Movement — Saturday, February 7

9to5: The Story of a Movement — Sunday, February 8

Norma Rae — Saturday, February 21

For all details about the films, their times and locations, and to register, please go to https://bit.ly/4sVdq29.

Community Dinner at Volume Two

by Volume Two/Never Ending Books

Folks will be hosting a Community Dinner every second Thursday from 6-8 p.m. at Volume Two (V2), A Never Ending Books Collective, at 810 State St., New Haven. Bring what you can and take what you need! Sign up to bring a dish here: https://tinyurl.com/2ndthurscommunitydinner and subscribe to the V2 newsletter at https://neverendingbooks.net.

V2 offers free books and a free space for your gig, group, or gathering. LGBTQIA and BIPOC events encouraged and celebrated! For all booking and other inquiries, contact NEBCollective@gmail.com.

6th Annual Kulturally LIT Fest, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Oct. 4

Oct. 4, 2025, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

ConnCAT, 4 Science Park, New Haven

Join us for the 6th Annual Kulturally LIT Fest — formerly Elm City LIT Fest — a dynamic celebration of Black literature, art, and cultural power. This year’s theme, “The Year of X,” honors the legacies of Malcolm X and Medgar Evers, two revolutionary leaders whose vision, sacrifice, and radical love continue to shape our struggles for justice and liberation.

The 2025 festival will center Black storytelling through powerful panels, workshops, music, vendors, and interactive art. We’ll explore the enduring impact of Malcolm and Medgar across generations. Expect bold conversations, creative expression, and space for both reflection and resistance.

Whether you’re a book lover, a budding writer, an artist, or a freedom dreamer, this festival is for you. Come experience the power of Black literature, legacy, and community.

For more information, please go to bit.ly/42IMJBY.

Get Involved in May Day 2025! Friday, May 2 and Saturday, May 3

May Day 2025 will be held on Friday, May 2 and Saturday, May 3 on the New Haven Green and in locations at Yale. Commemorate the 55th anniversary of May Day 1970 and the Black Panther trials in New Haven.

May Day 2025 is intended to serve as a People’s Rally for the betterment of all New Haven communities. May Day 2025 seeks to again create a people’s university at Yale, which sees institutional resources shared.

Have something to say about migrant rights, police accountability, food sovereignty, community health, environmental justice, or other issues? Sign up to speak at the rally! Host a workshop! Set up an info table about your organization! Are you a performer? We’re looking to host local artists, musicians, and other creatives.

The Dwight Hall May Day 2025 Steering Committee wants YOU! Contributions to May Day 2025 can take any form. By including many voices and perspectives in these conversations, we can best reflect community sentiment. Attend our weekly planning meetings, 7 p.m. every Monday in April at Dwight Hall, 67 High St. (wheelchair accessible).

Contact allie.lopez@yale.edu and lizzie.chiarovano@yale.edu for more information.

March 9: Socialist Essentials

By Possible Futures Bookspace

On Sunday, March 9, from 2-3:30 p.m., the bookspace at Possible Futures, 318 Edgewood Ave in New Haven, will be hosting members of the Connecticut chapter of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) for another meeting of Socialist Essentials, an introductory class on learnings and discussions around Capitalism, Socialism, and organizing for change. RSVP at https://bit.ly/4k7M9Fb.

More about the DSA in their own words: “Connecticut DSA is a statewide chapter of Democratic Socialists of America, the largest socialist organization in the United States. Our members are organizers – in the streets, workplaces, and neighborhoods – where we are bringing workers, tenants, and all exploited peoples into class struggle, building power in our movement for democratic socialism.”

Contact: Possible Futures, 203-446-2070 or info@possiblefuturesbooks.com.

Grab Your Beads & Dancing Shoes—Mardi Gras 2025 Is Almost Here!

by Manmita Dutta, New Haven Free Public Library Foundation

Mark your calendars—Mardi Gras is back on Tuesday, March 4! Join us for the Annual Mardi Gras Fundraiser benefiting the New Haven Free Public Library.

Celebrate with us as we bring the vibrancy and spirit of Mardi Gras to New Haven! Enjoy a night filled with festive music, delicious food, and incredible community spirit—all while supporting programs that promote equity, literacy, and access for all.

This year, we’re excited to honor two extraordinary individuals. Alder Honda Smith (Ward 30) will receive the Library Champion Award for Community Service, and Brad Gallant—Former President of the NHFPL Board of Directors and Former Member of the NHFPL Foundation Board of Directors—is the recipient of the Champion Award for Lifetime Achievement.

Tickets are now on sale. More information: https://tinyurl.com/52utcw7c

New Fact-Checking Resource Available at the New Haven Free Public Library

NHFPL Communications and Marketing Team

At the New Haven Free Public Library (NHFPL), we believe that informed communities are strong communities. That’s why we’re excited to celebrate National News Literacy Week by launching our brand-new Information Literacy page!

In today’s fast-paced digital world, misinformation spreads quickly. It can be challenging to tell the difference between reliable news, misleading content, and outright falsehoods. Our new Information Literacy page is designed to help you develop the skills to fact-check sources, recognize bias, and think critically about the information you consume.

Our new page (which can be accessed at nhfpl.org/factcheck) offers fact-checking resources to verify claims and debunk misinformation, tips for evaluating sources and spotting fake news, and links to free guides on media bias to help you navigate today’s media landscape.

All resources shared on this page are unbiased, nonpartisan, and verified as trustworthy by our information professionals on staff. Whether you’re a student, educator, or lifelong learner, these tools will empower you to engage with the news confidently and responsibly.

We’re proud to announce we’ll also be hosting more programming in the future centered around building these skills for all ages. We’ve also added some new books to our collection to assist with fact-checking and evaluating news sources. Sign up for our monthly newsletter at nhfpl.org/subscribe for updates on these offerings.

Join us in promoting news literacy and building a more informed community. Visit nhfpl.org/factcheck today or call your local branch for assistance.

Bullets, Bandages, and Making Waves: Jewish Women in WWII New Haven on Sunday, March 2, 2 p.m.

by New Haven Museum

WWII changed the lives of American women, who were essential to the war effort. In honor of Women’s History Month and the 80th anniversary of the war’s end in 1945, Jewish Historical Society of Greater New Haven (JHSGNH) will share the stories of seven such women: Lucille Wolfe Alderman, Mitzi Fenster Bargar, Rose Rosenberg Dubin, Edith Londer Gillman, Ruth Grannick, Laura Small Levine, and Rita Small Melman. Their stories illustrate the ways American women in the Elm City contributed to the war effort.

JHSGNH volunteers, writer Carole Bass and oral-history interviewer Rhoda Zahler Samuel, will present video memories of these local women, following a historical overview and discussion by Jennifer Klein, Bradford Durfee Professor of History at Yale University, of the ways WWII influenced women’s roles.

The lecture is presented in memory of Judith Ann Schiff, a founder of JHSGNH and the Ethnic Heritage Center, a New Haven Museum board member, Yale University’s chief archivist and New Haven’s city historian. In person and streaming on Facebook Live.

Join us on March 2 at 2 p.m. New Haven Museum is located at 114 Whitney Ave. It is wheelchair accessible.

Author Talk — Radical Connecticut: People’s History In The Constitution State

Author Andy Piascik joins us for a discussion about his and Steve Thornton’s new book: “Radical Connecticut: People’s History In The Constitution State.”

Version 1.0.0

“Radical Connecticut” tells the stories of everyday people and well-known figures whose work has often been obscured, denigrated, or dismissed. There are narratives of movements, strikes, popular organizations and people in Connecticut who changed the state and the country for the better.

Bridgeport native Andy Piascik is a long-time activist and award-winning writer whose work has appeared in many publications and on many websites. He is the author of the novel “In Motion.”
“Radical Connecticut: People’s History in the Constitution State” is his fourth book.

Thursday, Jan. 23, 6-7:30 p.m.
Phillip Marrett Room
Ives Main Library
133 Elm St.
New Haven

Annual Celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s Legacy of Social and Environmental Justice

by Peabody Museum

Every January, we gather at the Peabody Museum, 170 Whitney Ave., to honor Dr. King’s legacy and uplift Black leadership in the social and environmental justice movements. Our special celebration evolves annually as we co-create programming with our community partners from across New Haven and Connecticut.

Co-founded and co-presented with the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, each year’s celebration includes:

  • Two days of music and dance performances on the World Stage;
  • A youth art contest and youth-led summit co-presented with Students for Educational Justice;
  • A poetry open mic and professional poetry slam;
  • Storytelling at the New Haven Museum at 114 Whitney Ave.;
  • Special access to Peabody experts and collections;
  • Activities designed and presented by environmental and social justice organizations from across the state.

This important event draws visitors from all over the region. We can’t wait for you to join us!

We are currently planning our 29th celebration, to take place the weekend of Jan. 19–20, 2025. Please visit https://peabody.yale.edu/events/calendar for updates on this year’s event. Hope to see you there!

Pride Center Convenes Community To Heal

by Grayce Howe, Nov. 14, Arts Paper

Art acted as a form of resistance and relief last week, as dozens of community members gathered at the New Haven Pride Center for a night of post-election healing and artmaking. Often, they found themselves leaning on each other for support and encouragement, even as they searched for an answer to some of the grief and despair… The evening was co-hosted by the Greater New Haven Arts Council. In the interest of full transparency, the Arts Paper lives within, but is editorially independent from, the Arts Council.

Throughout the evening, the gathering aimed to combat feelings of unease that followed the election of Donald Trump… As president, he instituted legislative measures that included a ban on Muslim immigrants and refugees, multiple appointments to a now-conservative, anti-choice Supreme Court, significant environmental rollbacks, and direct calls meant to invigorate and activate millions of followers who were fueled by anti-Black, anti-immigrant, anti-woman ideals of a white nationalist America. During his 2024 campaign, he expanded that rhetoric, from calling into question whether Vice President Kamala Harris was and is in fact Black… to pushing for harsher immigration policies to insulting Haitians, Puerto Ricans, and all childless women within weeks of the election. In New Haven—a sanctuary city that has for years championed LGBTQ+ and immigrant rights—Tuesday’s result came as a crushing blow to many.

Thursday, it seemed that only compassionate community filled the room. In addition to a workshop from [Pride Center Executive Director Juancarlos] Soto—who, in addition to leading the Center, is a visual artist and fierce activist—the night included offerings from movement facilitator Vee Warden, holistic healer Thema Graves, drag queen Xiomarie LaBeija and poet, organizer and spoken word artist Sun Queen.

Throughout the evening, comments also came from Soto, Mayor Justin Elicker, and ACGNH Program Director Rebekah Moore and Executive Director Hope Chávez. The evening also included catering from the Ninth Square business Blue Orchid.

By the end of the night, participants’ moods were visibly lighter. Faces held smiles and laughed with new-made friends, inspired and hopeful for the future while empowerment overtook the previously overruling stress. That continued this week, as staff at the Pride Center set up a new corner of their space dedicated entirely to self-care.

[To read the original article visit https://www.newhavenarts.org/arts-paper/articles/pridecenter-convenes-community-to-heal

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