The Socrates Project is wrapping up two years of thought-provoking events, concerts, lectures and debates at McMaster with a bold, forward-looking and star-filled exploration of the path to a better future.
SHIFT 2020 is a three-day online festival that will feature outstanding scientists, artists, scholars and entrepreneurs, including activist Naomi Klein, Margaret Atwood in conversation with author Mark Kingwell, Polaris prize winner Jeremy Dutcher, social entrepreneur Zita Cobb, author and sociologist Gary Younge and scientist and author Diana Beresford-Kroeger, as well as community members of all ages and from all walks of life.
“We wanted The Socrates Project to end with a clear-eyed, open-hearted look forward,” says project director Rina Fraticelli. “These challenging, turbulent times can leave us feeling demoralized and powerless. But, as our guests will remind us, these are also times of great possibility.”
The festival’s name reflects that optimism and resolve “to shift attention to the future we want; and the plans and strategies we need to get there,” Fraticelli says.
“We wanted to draw from the widest range of perspectives and expertise, to help recharge our capacity – and responsibility – to the future.”
Originally planned as a five-day, in-person event, the online festival has the advantage of offering multiple avenues for engagement. Community members will be able to engage with invited guests and share their own perspectives and ideas in formats ranging from live chats and Q & As to formal presentations.
“There’s been a terrific response to our invitations to participate and partner,” continues Fraticelli. “In addition to multiple McMaster partners, we’re working with the City of Hamilton, TVOntario, the RBG, local schools and several grassroots organizations.”
SHIFT 2020 runs from Sept. 23 through 25. More speakers and events will be posted over the next few weeks. Go to the Socrates Project’s website for information and registration.