Belonging is a basic human need. We're happier and healthier when we feel like we belong to a group, place, or cause, and feel welcomed. When people lack that sense of belonging, it affects their self-concept and ability to experience fulfillment. So how do we talk about it when something makes us feel like we don’t belong?

Join the Duke University Libraries and QuadEx for “Belonging: A Library Living Room Conversation” with Deondra Rose, Kevin D. Gorter Associate Professor of Public Policy, Political Science and History, and QuadEx Faculty Fellow at Crowell Quad.

This is the second of two “Living Room Conversations” with Prof. Rose being offered to Duke undergraduates and all members of the Duke community, exploring complicated issues through real talk in a safe, organic, but guided discourse. The first conversation, on the theme of “Politics: Can We Talk?” will take place March 31.

What to Expect

In this conversation, we will explore what belonging means to us. Where do you feel like you belong, and why? Where do you wish you felt a greater sense of belonging? We'll begin with an introduction of the topic and overview of discussion agreements, then break into small groups to discuss for about an hour. This isn’t a debate, but a structured way to practice communicating across differences while building understanding and relationships. Registration required, but no preparation is needed.

Refreshments will be served.

About Deondra Rose

Deondra Rose is the Kevin D. Gorter Associate Professor of Public Policy, and Associate Professor of Political Science and History at Duke University's Sanford School of Public Policy. She is also the Director of Polis: Center for Politics at Duke University and Co-director of the North Carolina Scholars Strategy Network (SSN). Her research focuses on U.S. higher education policy, political behavior, American political development, and the politics of inequality.

Co-sponsored by the Duke University Libraries' Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Council (DivE-In), and QuadEx. For more information, contact Brandon Britt, Access Services Librarian.