On 1–6 June, the Living Library will be active as part of the RIGHTS NOW! Human Rights programme of the Docudays UA International Human Rights Documentary Film Festival.
This year we are organising the Living Library in a new format. Instead of individual readings, we offer you to attend open readings, public moderated conversations. The ‘books’ in the Living Library will be prominent experts, artists, veterans, united by the experience of fighting for the preservation and restoration of the Ukrainian national identity. You will learn how Ukrainian identity in history, literature, music, and filmmaking can help disprove Russian myths about ‘brotherly nations,’ communicate the truth about the war in Ukraine and the crimes of the terrorist state.
During the ten-year war that has been going on for three centuries, the enemy seeks to destroy not only our statehood but also our identity. Because it is the understanding of ourselves as one nation with its own history and path of development that separates Ukrainians from the consumers of the narratives of the Russian colonial policy. The war has demonstrated once again the nation-making influence of language, music, art, and history.
1 June
5:30–7:00 p.m.
Crimea and Ukraine: Identity through the lens of history
2 June
5:30–7:00 p.m.
Language and war: Identity through the lens of literature
3 June
5:30–7:00 p.m.
Showing resilience: Identity through the lens of music
4 June
5:30–7:00 p.m.
Return what we have lost: Ukrainian identity of the East
5 June
5:30–7:00 p.m.
Cultural resistance: Identity through the lens of modern art
6 June
5:30–7:00 p.m.
Spirit of freedom: Identity through the lens of cinema
An important part of discussions in the Living Library will be the Bridge from the Frontline. Ukrainian defenders, medics and volunteers from the battle zone will communicate with the readers.
The open conversations of the Living Library will be held at 5:30–7:00 p.m. at the Zhovten Cinema (Dolce Vita hall). Access to the events is free.
