GV community members produce & premiere environmental film

Grand Valley State University faculty and alumni have created a film telling stories of climate action from all across the state. The film, “Climate Sisu: The stories of climate resilience from Northern Michigan,” takes viewers into the lives of scientists, farmers, urban planners and other climate activists in Michigan.

Throughout the film, the audience is taken through the stories and personal experiences of local Michigan residents that are working to find meaningful solutions to the bigger issues of climate change. It’s a call to action, raising awareness for the impacts of environmental injustices through optimistic, point-of-view style storytelling.

The GVSU community involved in the development, filming, writing and production of Climate Sisu hope to stir a sense of resilience within the audience. They said they hope to instill that individuals shouldn’t be discouraged by the overwhelming nature of the climate change, but instead feel motivated to make small changes in everyday life to make a difference.

GVSU is holding a premiere for the film on the Pew Grand Rapids campus this Thursday, April 6 as part of the Civic Engagement Showcase.

GV highlights global perspectives in campus events

Grand Valley State University is celebrating African voices and culture in different capacities through the “One Africa” celebration this Friday, hosted by the African Student Council.

This is an event for anyone identifying with or interested in the celebration of vibrant African culture.

“One Africa” is set to bring participants into different aspects of traditions, art, music, dance, food and more within African heritage. They will feature a runway show, dance performance, workshop class on rhythms and moves of African dance and free cuisines from both Western and Southern Africa.

Additionally, GVSU writing professor Dr. Oindrila Mukherjee is holding a presentation and book talk as part of the campus Global Express series.

In the novel, “The Dream Builders,” Mukherjee speaks about the societal differences in class, gender and identity between the Midwestern American versus India. The presentation is expected to cover topics ranging from infrastructural development, globalization and how to navigate a transition between the two countries.

Both events celebrate rich and diverse cultural heritage outside of the United States, providing students and community members that are interested an opportunity for engagement with global African enrichments and exposure to Indian cultural dynamics.

For more information on both events, visit the GVSU events page under “One Africa” and “Global Express Series.”