On Friday October 2, The Thomas Merton Center hosted 10 Hear Me Kiosks as part of their gallery for Unblurred: First Fridays on Penn.
Merton Center staff encouraged listeners to respond to 5 different questions posted on the kiosks and on the Merton Center Walls.
In his story, 19-year-old Jamal discusses how law enforcement targets juveniles. Listeners then answered the question,"How can we foster a positive relationship between police and youth?"
13-year-old Quinton's "Kids are Struggling" had 82 listens throughout the night and asked listeners, "How does having access to tutors affect academic performance?"
Responses included:
After hearing stories on school climate, listeners were asked, "What makes our school community a positive and safe place for learning?" Kristen's "Security Guards and Teachers with Guns" had 80 plays and elicited the following responses:
Two kiosks featured stories from Somali-Bantu refugees on identity. Stories from Sangab and Saraji totaled 77 plays and asked listeners, "How do our personal experiences influence our identities?"
Overall the night was a success - the Kiosks totaled nearly 500 plays and elicited thoughtful responses from listeners. Thanks to the Thomas Merton Center for hosting the kiosks and everyone who participated!
To host your own Hear Me Kiosk, email kiosk@hear-me.net.