JANUARY 17: 11:00-12:00 PM

Finding the Divine Within: A Journey of Connection

What does it mean to find the divine within? For some, it is a whisper of clarity amidst life’s chaos or a steady sense of peace in moments of struggle. To others, it might be the spark of creativity, the courage to forgive, or the understanding that profound truths often lie in simplicity. In an age dominated by distractions, exploring this inner connection can transform how we view ourselves and our place in the world.

This online discussion group invites participants to examine the sacred within themselves. Through guided meditation, personal storytelling, and interactive discussions, we will reflect on diverse definitions of divinity. Whether it is a sense of higher purpose, a bond with others, or the quiet beauty of daily life, participants will explore how these moments of connection shape their perspectives.

The gathering emphasizes curiosity and understanding over definitive answers. By sharing and listening, attendees can leave with a deeper sense of the sacred potential within us all and new ways to bring that awareness into everyday life. This collective exploration of the divine offers an opportunity to connect, reflect, and grow together.

FEBRUARY 13TH: 7:00-8:00 PM

Mental Illness on the Silver Screen

The portrayal of madness in media has evolved dramatically over time, reflecting shifting societal attitudes toward mental health and substance use disorders. This online discussion group will open with a brief historical account of how mental illness and addiction have been depicted in the media, tracing the journey from stigmatizing portrayals in early films and literature to more nuanced representations in contemporary works. By understanding these historical contexts, participants will gain insight into what was once considered acceptable and how these depictions have influenced public perception.

Following the historical overview, the discussion will transition to an exploration of current film and television portrayals of mental health. Participants will examine examples that challenge stereotypes and promote empathy, as well as those that perpetuate harmful misconceptions. Through this analysis, the group will consider how these portrayals impact societal attitudes, stigma, and the lived experiences of those with mental health and substance use challenges.

This meeting is an opportunity to critically examine how media shapes our understanding of madness and to explore ways we can advocate for more accurate and compassionate storytelling in the future.

FEBRUARY 27TH: 11:00 AM-12:00 PM

Exploring Eating Disorders in Film: An Online Discussion

In honor of Eating Disorder Awareness Month, join us for a public online discussion group dedicated to exploring how films address eating disorders. This event provides a unique opportunity to examine the portrayal of these complex and often misunderstood conditions through the lens of cinema, fostering awareness and empathy.

The meeting will begin with a brief presentation offering essential context about eating disorders, their impact, and common misconceptions. Participants will receive this information in advance to help ground the discussion. From there, the session will open up for sharing and dialogue, inviting attendees to reflect on specific films that have tackled the subject, both effectively and critically.

This event is a chance to connect with others, share perspectives, and deepen understanding of eating disorders and their representation in media. Whether you’re a film enthusiast, advocate, or someone seeking insight, your voice is welcome as we come together to honor stories that shed light on these important issues.

Mysteries of Mental Illness (PBS) explores the story of mental illness in science and society, tracing the evolution of this complex topic from its earliest days to present times. The four-part series examines the dramatic attempts across generations to unravel the mysteries of mental illness and give voice to contemporary Americans across a spectrum of experiences.

MAY 2ND: 7:00-8:00 PM (Evil or Illness)

MAY 9TH: 7:00-8:00 PM (Who’s Normal?)

MAY 16TH: 7:00-8:00 PM (The Rise and Fall of the Asylum)

MAY 23RD: 7:00-8:00 PM (New Frontiers)

APRIL 4TH: 7:00-8:00 PM

Theorizing Gender Violence

This discussion will involve conversations about types of gender violence, including physical, psychological, emotional, and sexual, as well as a range of contexts of violence, including domestic violence, campus sexual assault, stalking, and more. We will also explore theories on domestic violence and intimate partner violence including: Psychological, Sociological, Resource, Exchange, and Resource Theories.

APRIL 11TH: 7:00-8:00 PM

The Evolution of Revenge: Genre, Feminist Theory and Jennifer’s Body

“The representation and proliferation of violence against women in media, when applying genre theory, reflects the social climate of rape culture and the social response to sexual violence. Looking at the Rape-Revenge genre through the scope of Feminist Theory, the only way to reintroduce female agency into a trauma led narrative is to reclaim the tropes used to perpetuation female exploitation and a popular culture ambivalent to male on female violence. Within this subversion and deconstruction, a genre benefiting from female trauma finally includes an honest artistic retelling of that female experience. With the intention of the creator in line with expression rather than exploitation as well as an assumed female audience the use of female perspective in Rape-Revenge films propells the genre into a more evolved and honest portrayal of the narrative as the auidence is led throught the framework by the gaze that runs parallel to it’s protagonist.” (Abstract by Sophia Birks, 2020)

APRIL 25TH :7:00-8:00 PM (In Our Own Voice, Speaker)

MARCH 13TH

MARCH 27, 2025

SAAM

April 17th, 2025

MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS

PTSD AWARENESS

JUNE 19, 2025