‘Never judge a book by it’s cover’ we are told but what about people?
A fascinating project – The Human Library – is coming to Plymouth and seeking volunteers to be the ‘books’ which people will ‘read’. The initiative which has taken place in more than 80 countries, illustrates that each of us is so much more than our appearance.
The Human Library aims to highlight people who have experienced stigma or other challenges based on the way they appear to others, such as via their ethnicity, disability, sexuality or gender. The individuals become the ‘books’ while the ‘readers’ are members of the public who want to learn about the person ‘behind the label’ in a safe space where people can ask the questions they never had the opportunity, or never dared, to ask. It is in fact a place to unjudge someone. The event on June the 2nd is being organised, as part of Plymouth History Festival, by Carmel Lawless, who has taken part as a ‘book’ in other human libraries;
“We are looking for people,” says Carmel,“who have experienced misconceptions, hate, stigma or other challenges because of who they are and who want to help create better understanding through respectful conversations. If you’re open to sharing your experiences and you’re even slightly curious about being a human book, we want to hear from you.”
You can contact Carmel at humanlibraryplymouth@gmail.com or Mobile 07849 655990.
