Fontbonne University Dedicated Semester Fall '09: IMMIGRANT EXPERIENCES.

"Immigrant Experiences," the topic for Fontbonne's Fall 2009 Dedicated Semester, explores the broad spectrum of individual histories and experiences that constitute the United States. The theme is designed to help the campus community understand the portals through which so many people, representing nations from every continent, have passed through on their way to the U.S.

"This topic explores the array of cultural, social, ethnical, national, economic and religious experiences that create so many distinct identities, and how those identities are negotiated in defining a multicultural nation," says Jack Luzkow, associate professor of history at Fontbonne, and chair of the Fall '09 dedicated semester committee.
During the semester, students, staff and faculty are encouraged to explore Immigrant Experiences as a community. Through a wide selection of guest speakers, films, panels and events, participants will develop a better understanding of the various movements of all immigrants on their paths to U.S. citizenship, the obstacles they have faced, and the impact they have had on their adopted country.

"We chose this topic because, from the beginning, we have been a nation of immigrants," says Luzkow "Regardless of our backgrounds, all of us can connect and relate to it in one way or another."

Throughout the semester, Immigrant Experiences will focus on:

• The problems shared by all immigrants trying to immerse themselves in a new culture.
• The politics and culture of genocide, one of the primary causes of human dislocation and immigration.
• Religious themes and social and cultural conflicts that have led to the migration of religious and social groups.
• How and why diverse cultures and ethnic groups have succeeded in producing genuine community.
• The richness of cultures through language, food, literature, cinema, music and theater.
• Why America is considered a melting pot - and why this metaphor isn't always accurate.

A unique academic experience, this collaborative initiative encourages the entire university, as well as the local community, to explore a single theme this fall semester.