This event has passed.
#DemocracyDrinks: Unfamiliar faces, familiar stories
June 17 | 18:30 - 20:30
Join us on Tuesday, June 17, at 6:30 PM for the final #DemocracyDrinks event of this season in Vilnius (we’ll reconnect in September).
Behind the 7 letters of “refugee” or the label “newcomer” lie unique stories, multifaceted identities, a longing for home, dreams, and hopes of starting anew in Lithuania. Social distance studies reveal we often shy away from closer connections with people from other cultures or living as their neighbors. Could this change if we, as a society, dared to truly know those who have arrived? How do we move beyond the quick labels pinned on social media to see the person? What does it mean to embrace someone as a friend, neighbor, colleague, or community member? And how do newcomers’ cultures enrich Lithuania? Join us for a meaningful discussion with those who have made Lithuania their home, as we listen to their experiences.
More about our inspiring participants coming soon.
The highlight of this #DemocracyDrinks season finale is Kadim Mazin’s oud music concert, which, following a brief discussion, will transport attendees to the enchanting world of Middle Eastern melodies.
Expect refreshments and warm conversations in the cozy courtyard of the Open Lithuania Foundation!
When? Tuesday, June 17, 6:30 PM
Where? Open Lithuania Foundation Courtyard (Didžioji St. 5, Vilnius)
Register: https://forms.gle/ZFjKAigcE4fzYFGx6More information: https://fb.me/e/6cySGwh58
The event will be held in English and Lithuanian.
This season’s closing event is special as we join and support Refugee Week, with #DemocracyDrinks becoming part of the Baltics’ largest festival celebrating refugees’ contributions to society, “Rhythm of Cultures.” In Lithuania, the festival is represented and coordinated by the arts agency Artscape.
#DemocracyDrinks is a global initiative providing a networking space for democracy defenders and supporters. Events are already held in Zurich, Montreal, Helsinki, Kathmandu, Washington, and other cities. Vilnius is the 13th city where civil society, activists, businesses, and the academic community are invited to gather monthly to discuss the state of democracy and its challenges. Learn more about #DemocracyDrinks here: https://democracydrinks.org/
