Join ECC in celebrating Women’s History Month
Author and cultural expert Jian Ping will return to Elgin Community College for several free events that are part of the college’s celebration of Women’s History Month this month.
Ping, who wrote the book “Mulberry Child,” grew up during the time of the Chinese Cultural Revolution and lived through the chaos, hardship and deprivation that engulfed China. Millions of lives were destroyed and reputations ruined during that period from 1966 to 1976.
On Tuesday, March 6, Ping will present “From China to Chicago: A Mother/Daughter Journey” from 11 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. in the ECC Advanced Technology Center auditorium, 1700 Spartan Drive, Elgin. Her presentation will focus not only on the historical impact of China’s Cultural Revolution depicted in “Mulberry Child,” but the clear disconnect between Ping and her American-raised, free-spirited daughter, Lisa Xia, who does not identify with nor has much interest in her Chinese roots.
In addition to her presentation, Ping will facilitate a discussion about the relationships between immigrant parents and their American-born children during an “Immigrant Women Roundtable” from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. in the Student Resource Center community room. This annual event gathers women immigrants from ECC and the community who tell their stories of coming to the United States.
On Wednesday, March 7, a screening of “Mulberry Child” will be held from 7 to 9:30 p.m. in the ATC Auditorium. Based on Ping’s book, the film depicts her upbringing and her struggles to connect with her daughter. Ping and her daughter will hold an audience discussion after the film.
Ping’s appearance is also part of The Humanities Center 2011-2012 Speaker Series sponsored by the ECC Humanities Center. Established in fall 2006, the series navigates today’s intellectual landscape by bringing renowned speakers to the ECC community. The Immigrant Women Roundtable is co-sponsored by the Student Life Office and GIST.
Other events during Women’s History Month include the following. All events are free and open to the public, unless noted. For information, call the Student Life Office at (847) 214-7370.
Ÿ Wednesday, March 7: “The Language of Birds: Rosa Luxemburg and Me” will be from 11 a.m. to noon in the Advanced Technology Center Auditorium. This one-woman play features Donna Blue Lachman and her portrayal of Rosa Luxemburg, German political activist. Lachman is an Emmy Award-winning playwright, actor, director, and Chicago teacher for more than 25 years.
Ÿ Saturday, March 10: The 20th annual Women’s History Month Brunch will be from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Randall Oaks Country Club, 4101 Binnie Road, West Dundee. Cost is $15. Storyteller and actress Lynn Rymarz will give a presentation about Mary Cassatt, a talented and passionate American artist who was determined to make it in her career. The event is sponsored by Altrusa International Club of Elgin, American Association of University Women, ECC, Elgin Junior Service Board, Elgin Symphony League, Fideliter Club of Elgin, Fox Valley Beaux Arts Women’s Club, League of Women Voters of the Elgin Area, and YWCA Elgin. To RSVP, contact the YWCA Elgin at (847) 742-7930.
Ÿ Monday, March 12: The Family Health Fair will be from noon to 1 p.m. at the Student Resource Center Jobe Lounge. Get health screenings, hear lectures by and get advice from health care experts, visit educational exhibits, and enjoy fun activities for the entire family.
Ÿ Wednesday, March 14: Patricia Haley-Glass will speak on “Women’s Education - Women’s Empowerment” at noon in the Fox Valley University and Business Center dining room. Cost is $15. This best-selling author of eight inspirational novels and accomplished businesswoman will address the issues of empowerment, forgiveness, and family restoration. To RSVP, contact Billie Barnett at bbarnett@elgin.edu or (847) 214-7945.
Ÿ Thursday, March 15: “Are You At Risk? Latinas and Depression” will be discussed from noon to 1 p.m. in the Student Resource Center community room. Is mental illness in the Latino culture viewed as a condition best handled on your own? Join students from ECC’s Organization of Latin American Students and the winner of Nuestra Belleza Latina ECC in this engaging discussion.
Ÿ Tuesday, March 20: Soup ‘n’ Stories will feature “The Story of a Holocaust Survivor” from noon to 1 p.m. in the SRC Community Room. The story of Sarah Nussbacher, a survivor of the World War II German death camp, Auschwitz, is told by her daughter, Ericka Yeger. Sarah was more than 70 years old when she finally told of her Holocaust experiences and those of her family members.
Ÿ Thursday, March 22: Enjoy an inspiring tea featuring spoken-word artist Jinahie from 2 to 3 p.m. at the SRC Community Room. Enjoy this extraordinarily gifted 19-year-old Egyptian-American spoken-word poet from Washington D.C. while savoring delicious tea and treats. Her poetry spans a variety of issues and cultures while her technique combines mastery of craft, precision, skill and grace. For information, contact Rachael Tecza at rtecza@elgin.edu or (847) 214-7578.