Big Idea: Asian Stories from the Heartland
The Big Idea highlights fresh thinking and new perspectives in the humanities through essays and online conversations.
Online events can be viewed at work, at home, or at a livestream event in your community. Want to host a Big Idea in-person, livestream event? See below for instructions.
Spring 2025: Asian Stories from the Heartland
Asians and Asian Americans have been a part of Kansas history since settlement. This season of the Big Idea will explore a few of the personal stories, histories, and perspectives of AAPI community members and scholars in the heartland. Hosted by Dr. Valerie Mendoza.
Big Idea events are broadcast live on Zoom at 12 noon. Free, but registration is required. (Can't attend live? Register for the event and we will send you a link to watch on HK's YouTube channel.)
January 24: From International Trade to Shakespeare's Stage: Asian American Angles on Law and Literature
Inspired by his research in both international trade law and the law as it is represented in English literature, Prof. Raj Bhala will explore the many ways we can learn about the U.S.-China Trade War with Shakespeare as the inspiration. Friday, January 24 at noon CT. Click here to register.
February 21: A Filipino Writer's Exile in Wichita
Dr. Thomas X. Sarmiento and author Abby Bayani-Heitzman will discuss the life and work of Filipinx writer Bienvenido Santos who lived in Wichita and served as the Distinguished Writer in Residence at Wichita State University from 1973 to 1982. Santos is today considered a pioneering author in Asian-American literature. Friday, February 21 at noon CT. Click here to register.
March 14: Asian Stories from Southwest Kansas
Journalist Rachel Coleman will share her experiences as the child of an Indian father growing up in Minneola. She will be joined in conversation with fellow Asian American residents from Southwest Kansas. Friday, March 14 at noon CT. Click here to register.
April 18: Connecting Asia and the Heartland through Art Past and Present
Curator Dr. Aileen Wang will identify some of the most significant works of art in the Beach Museum of Art's permanent collection at Kansas State University. Works reflect cross-cultural exchanges among artists in the Kansas region and Asia and contribute to the vibrancy of the Midwest Asian American art world. Friday, April 18 at noon CT. Click here to register.
May 16: Struggle and Success: The Asian American Experience in Kansas
Dr. Bill Tsutsui will guide us through the history of Asian Americans in Kansas, including the increasing prominence of AAPI Kansans in electoral politics today and new communities that have developed in Southwest Kansas and Kansas City. Friday, May 16 at noon CT. Click here to register.
Host a Big Idea Livestream Event
Libraries, museums, and other public spaces are invited to host in-person "watch parties" of the Big Idea live broadcast. A fun and easy program opportunity that provides an opportunity for community members who do not have access to a reliable internet connection, or for folks who simply want to enjoy the company of others as we spark conversations.
Requirements to host a Big Idea Livestream event:
- Have a stable internet connection to stream the event
- Have a sufficient sound system for all audience participants to hear
- Have a projector or screen for all audience participants to see
- A staff person on site to monitor and submit questions during the Q & A portion of the online event
- Promote your livestream event in advance of the event date
- Submit a final report with attendance information and additional details
Apply to host a Big Idea Livestream
Promotional Materials for Livestream Hosts
Note: Individuals participating from home or work should sign up at the links found above at the end of the event descriptions.