Eastern Connecticut State University continues its University Hour program for the fall 2020 semester with a series of virtual events on Wednesdays from 3-4 p.m. unless otherwise noted. The events will range from lectures to workshops, with a variety of experts expressing their ideas about poetry, history and social issues. Online access to each event is available by contacting the indicated event coordinators.

On Oct. 21, poet and public speaker Zulynette will host a workshop with students that will encourage them to participate in poetry writing, performance and feedback. With a combination of a social work background, more than a decade of facilitation and years as a performing artist, Zulynette works to empower students to explore, critique and celebrate their inner and outer worlds. For more information, contact Kristen Morgan at morgankr@easternct.edu

On Nov. 4, Beverly York will present “Six Voices of Women’s Suffrage,” which presents six icons of the Women’s Suffrage movement and discusses their contributions in securing the vote for American women through facts and their own writings. Visit http://bevishistory.com/12-womens-suffrage.html for details. For more information on the presentation, contact Angela Walker at walkera@easternct.edu

On Nov. 18, a conversation surrounding racism in America will be based on filmmaker Anthony Valentine’s 16-minute dramatic fil “Shea.” The production is a resource to begin conversations about race nationwide on college campuses. Students will have the opportunity to share and listen to one another's experiences. For more information, contact Kristen Morgan at morgankr@easternct.edu

On Dec. 2, the Imani Winds, a Grammy-nominated wind quintet, will lead a virtual discussion about their success in becoming one of the most successful chamber music ensembles in the country. Topics discussed will include their dynamic playing, adventurous programming, imaginative collaborations and outreach endeavors, as well as how they made diversity a key point in their career. For more information, contact Amanda Baker at bakeraman@easternct.edu

On Dec. 9, there will be a presentation about the history of athletes who have spoken out regarding social injustices, such as Colin Kaepernick, as well as the predominately white men within the hierarchy of sports who decided to punish them for these actions. There will also be discussion regarding the sports hierarchy in general and its impact on athletes to raise awareness of social issues. For more information, contact Robert Romano at romanor@easternct.edu

On Dec. 16, Eastern alumnus Broderick Sawyer will discuss the impact of racial discrimination, including negative mental and physical health outcomes for minority young adults. Includes in this discussion are research findings, historically/systemically maintained dynamics, interpersonal race dynamics and avenues for collective healing. For more information, contact Kristy Salters-Pedneault at saltersk@easternct.edu