Come chat with Betsy from Stir the Plot Books about the History of Trash!
Single-use plastics are an extremely new invention. Synthetic plastics weren't invented until the 1800s and weren't widely available until after WWII, less than 100 years in the past.
Only a few short generations ago, most people had to be taught to throw items away before they were completely worn out or unusable.
How did we go from “Use it up, wear it out, make it do, or do without” which was a popular saying during the Great Depression to the throwaway culture we have now?
Let's talk about it!
What's a History Chat?
History Chats are facilitated conversations during which attendees share facts, stories, thoughts, and feelings about historical events. We focus on the more challenging parts of history and center marginalized voices so we can learn from different perspectives than the ones commonly shared or accepted in mainstream society.
By holding space for difficult discussions, realizations, and opposing viewpoints these History Chats will help us better understand our present situation, foster open conversations, and listen to diverse voices. Through having open facilitated discussions with fellow community members, we will learn about what our neighbors find most interesting or upsetting about our shared histories.
Everyone who has an interest in history is welcome at History Chats. Please attend with an open mind and be willing to listen to other people's perspectives (see Guidelines below). All ages are welcome, depending on how child-friendly the venue is, and how comfortable the parents/guardians are with the subject matter for their children. Attend if you know a lot about history, attend if you don't know anything at all, or if you are anywhere in between!
Be prepared to share references for any fact-based additions to the conversation. Timers may be utilized in order to allow everyone an opportunity to share if they'd like.
Guidelines:
1. Respect: All participants are worthy of basic respect. Personal attacks, racism, sexism, etc are not tolerated in this space.
2. Reciprocal Listening: Listen to understand, not to respond (see: No Debating).
3. No Debating: History Chats are a conversation to gain greater understanding. If you are interested in being "right" or in debating an issue with any agenda, this group may not be a good fit for you.
4. Ask Open-Ended Questions with Curiosity (see: No Debating and Reciprocal Listening).
5. Common Ground: Try to find common ground when possible, even if it's something very small or basic.
6. Nuance: Understand that everyone has different perspectives. There are shades of rainbow in everything, and new discoveries can completely change how certain historical events are understood.
7. Triggers: Be aware of your own triggers and communicate or take a break if you are feeling activated. Be aware of and gentle with potentially sensitive topics for others.
8. Logic and Feelings are both valid, but they are also different.
9. Contribute Conscientiously: Be prepared to share your sources. Be aware of how much time you're taking and try to add something new to the conversation within those time constraints (see: Respect above).
10. Call Out: Be open being called out if you use logical fallacies or a controversial source.
