In a significant effort to promote access to education and cultural diversity, the American Studies Students and Alumni Association (ASSAA) in collaboration with the American Studies Society Indonesia (ASSINDO) successfully organized a series of events titled “Lecture Series and Thanksgiving Lunch 2024.” This event, held online via Zoom, focused on the theme “The Evolution of American Identity in a Multicultural Society,” reflecting the importance of education for sustainability and equal access to knowledge in developing countries.
Lecture Series Documentation
The Lecture Series commenced on Wednesday, November 6, 2024, with two engaging sessions. The first session featured Dr. Suzie Handajani, M.A., who discussed “Asian Americans: From Mainstream Media to Social Media.” This session highlighted the representation of Asian Americans in various media forms, emphasizing the need for cultural diversity in narratives that shape American identity.
Following Dr. Handajani’s presentation, Tino Torres, a graduate student from the City University of New York, presented on “American Identity Through a New York City Lens: A Reflection on Diversity and Cultural Contrasts.” His insights provided a unique perspective on how New York City, as a melting pot of cultures, influences the understanding of American identity.
Lecture Series Documentation
The second session took place on Thursday morning, November 7, 2024. Dr. Nur Saktiningrum, M.A., led a discussion on “Navigating Diversity: The Role of Intersectionality in Shaping American Identity.” This session underscored the importance of recognizing various intersecting identities in understanding the complexities of American culture.
Lecture Series Documentation
Prof. Dr. H. Nuriadi, S.S., M.Hum., followed with a fascinating exploration titled “Exploring The Use Of Pronoun Thou, Thee, Thy, Or Thine: A Fact From The American Quakers.” His presentation delved into the historical and cultural significance of language in shaping identity, further enriching the discourse on cultural diversity.
Participants in the Lecture Series included students and faculty from various universities across Indonesia, showcasing the event’s commitment to equal access to education and fostering a collaborative learning environment. The diverse audience reflected the cultural richness and academic engagement present in the field of American Studies.
Movie Discussion Documentation
On the afternoon of Thursday, November 7, the event culminated in a Movie Discussion and Thanksgiving Lunch. This gathering was attended by esteemed guests, including faculty members from the Faculty of Cultural Sciences, graduate students from American Studies, English Literature students, and representatives from ASSINDO. The event provided a platform for networking and sharing experiences among attendees.
The Movie Discussion, moderated by Ahdi Sakha, was characterized by a warm atmosphere and enthusiastic participation. Dr. Aris Munandar, M.Hum., opened the session with a heartfelt welcome, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to gather as an academic community during this festive occasion.
Following the discussion, attendees enjoyed a Thanksgiving Lunch, which served as a perfect opportunity for participants to reconnect, share experiences, and reminisce about their time in the American Studies program. This gathering not only celebrated academic achievements but also reinforced the bonds of community and cultural exchange.
The successful execution of the “Lecture Series and Thanksgiving Lunch 2024” exemplifies the commitment of ASSAA and ASSINDO to promote access to education, cultural diversity, and sustainable practices in the field of American Studies. As the world continues to evolve, such initiatives play a crucial role in fostering understanding and appreciation of diverse cultures, particularly in developing countries.
[Public Relation Faculty of Cultural Sciences UGM, Sandya Kirani]
