Sanctuary lecture 2024
On Wednesday 27 March 2024, we held our annual Sanctuary lecture which was our third annual lecture to celebrate the university sanctuary status. The Lecture is an opportunity to bring students, staff and members of the community to hear from experts about themes and issues connected to sanctuary and forced-migration. After opening remarks from the Principal and Vice-Chancellor, Professor Dame Sally Mapstone FRSE, our two guests Dr Dina Nayeri, Reader in the School of English, and Dr Roxani Krystalli, Lecturer in the School of International Relations had a conversation about different themes; the politics of storytelling about violence, migration and dignity. At the end of the conversation, there was good engagement at the Q&A and reception afterwards.
Watch lecture recording
One of the main points raised in the conversation revolved around the profound impact of storytelling on our lives, particularly within the context of displacement and migration. The speakers delved into how experiences of displacement shaped one’s sense of identity and belonging, underlining the importance of authentic storytelling in conveying these experiences. They emphasized the inherently political nature of storytelling, which reflected power dynamics and human experiences. Moreover, the conversation explored the various forms and purposes of storytelling, especially within political writing. The speakers stressed the significance of connecting with readers on a human level, focusing on emotions and experiences that transcended boundaries. They underscored the role of compelling writing in captivating readers and encouraging empathy, even in narratives of displacement and migration. Joy was identified as a vital element in such storytelling, offering a more comprehensive understanding of the human condition.
The speakers also addressed the challenges faced by displaced writers in navigating narratives beyond displacement, often constrained by industry and audience expectations. They advocated for a more open-minded approach from readers, encouraging them to embrace diverse storytelling structures and cultural perspectives. Furthermore, biases and hierarchies of believability in storytelling were examined, particularly concerning narratives from displaced individuals seeking asylum or justice. Language translation and cultural perceptions were identified as influential factors in determining the credibility of a narrative. The importance of confronting and mitigating these biases was stressed to foster a more inclusive and empathetic society.
The conversation concluded with reflections on the relationship between confidence and uncertainty in storytelling. The speakers advocated for embracing vulnerability and authenticity over conforming to external expectations of confidence. They suggested that true confidence lay in being comfortable with uncertainty and embracing one’s unique voice and perspective in storytelling.
We would like to thank the Principal and Vice-Chancellor, Professor Dame Sally Mapstone FRSE, and our two guests Dina Nayeri and Dr Roxani Krystalli for making the lecture truly impactful.
Visit our Sanctuary page to learn more about our work around Sanctuary initiatives.