Belonging and Transformative Learning
Yesterday, my film, InterGeneration screened on a rooftop in Beirut, Lebanon as part of the Lebanese Independent Film Festival—LIFF. Lebanon is my ancestral homeland, and Beirut is one of my favorite cities, vibrant with rich heritage and multiculturalism. Though I could not attend, I am moved that InterGeneration, a story specific to teens and elders in Boston, played in Lebanon alongside beautiful international films that explore diversity from a global perspective. Beirut is a poignant backdrop to the film’s American (yet universal) appeal for cultural, racial, and generational bridge building.
InterGeneration’s screening in Beirut reminded me of my own need for connection to my cultural identity. Many of us in the States feel disconnected from our ancestral lineage. We struggle with our own identities and sense of belonging. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy goes further in saying that we are increasingly estranged not just from ourselves, but from each other. The need for human connection is great in all aspects of society, but most profoundly in our schools and in our elder population. Social isolation is a public health crisis.
Frameworks for social-emotional learning in schools are crucial to give students a sense of themselves, skills for healthy relationships, and connection to the wider community. The Collaborative for Academic and Social Emotional Learning (CASEL) is at the forefront of this work. I am thrilled to partner with my friend and educational advisor, Trelane Clark to present InterGeneration at CASEL’s national conference in November. Trelane and I are creating an interactive workshop to accompany clips from the film that align with CASEL’s Transformative SEL focal points of identity, agency, belonging, collaborative problem solving, and curiosity. We will be asking the participants the following questions:
1. How can we face the uncertainty of our time with courage and vulnerability, allowing our lived experiences to harmonize with the stories of others?
2. How can we collectively move toward a sense of belonging not only to a particular group, but to our shared humanity?
I would love to hear your thoughts on these questions as well.