Gung Hay Fat Choy! Join Commonwealth Club members and guests to celebrate this year’s Chinese/Lunar New Year, the Year of the Earth Snake. Special guest: Syndi Seid, founder of AdvancedEtiquette.com, will guide attendees through learning about their Chinese animal horoscope, compatibility, and proper Chinese table manners and customs. A special 8-course family-style dinner will be served, with limited adjustments available for vegetarians/vegans upon prior request. Parking is limited, but on-street parking and nearby garages are available. Advance reservations are required as seating is limited.
Event WebsiteJoin bestselling author Juan Williams for a compelling discussion on the rise of America's second civil rights movement. As he outlines the trajectory from the Obama presidency through significant events like Charlottesville and the January 6 Capitol incident, Williams highlights how demographic changes and the use of social media shape today's activism against systemic racism and police brutality. The session will delve into the new generation's goals and challenges, linking historical struggles for equality with modern efforts for social justice. This event promises to be an engaging exploration of the present and future of civil rights in America.
Christelle Durandy fuses Afro-Caribbean, jazz and other polyrhythmic sounds in a provocative exploration of the African diaspora’s diffuse and powerful musical energy – a multicultural complexity Christelle herself embodies, having been raised in France by a mother from Reunion Island and a father from Guadeloupe. Backed by her band Sanktet (a play on the French “cinq têtes,” or “five heads”), Christelle draws upon her polyglot background to celebrate and expand the diaspora’s vibrant musical conversation, ranging joyfully amongst – and fearlessly blending – such varied forms as Cuban mambo, Guadeloupe’s gwo ka, traditional jazz and myriad others.
Joan Baez returns to the Commonwealth Club for an engaging discussion about her life, personal thoughts, and experiences almost 45 years after her last visit to talk about human rights. In her new book of poems titled 'When You See My Mother: Ask Her to Dance', she shares intimate reflections on her life, fellow contemporaries, and cherished memories through poetry. This event focuses on her revealing insights and reflections that shaped her iconic status, offering attendees a unique, personal glimpse into her artistic journey. Join us in-person as she provides an inspiring narrative of her past and a never-before-seen look into the life of this legendary artist. Post live music provided by CHAKANA.
Join us on Wednesday, January 29 at 7pm when we celebrate the launch of Samantha Schoech's debut story collection, My Mother's Boyfriends, with Michelle Richmond at 9th Ave! The event features insightful and witty storytelling that reflects on human experiences like growing up, raising children, and the complexities of relationships. Attendees can participate free of charge but are encouraged to RSVP. The event is accessible and will also be streamed online.