In communities across Michigan, humanities-rich programming is making a lasting impact in the hearts and minds of residents and visitors alike. MI Humanities is proud to partner with local community champions to bring you high-quality public programming through community project grants, Museum on Main Street, and more.
PLEASE NOTE: Some events may be canceled or postponed. We work to ensure that our events calendar remains accurate. We strongly urge you to call the event contact for any program you are interested in to confirm that the event is still planned.
Come GATHER with us in Kalamazoo! On November 17 we will be partnering with We Are For Good for their next global Impact Up! event “Pause”. Join us as we remind ourselves that rest isn’t a break from our mission, it is fuel for it! Lunch is provided. Register to attend here. About the event: You […]
In this virtual event, two leading scholars bring to life the dynamic partnership of President James K. Polk and First Lady Sarah Polk—one of the most influential political couples of the 19th century. Amy Greenberg and Matt Costello explore territorial expansion, wartime leadership, and the often overlooked political power wielded by Sarah Polk. A lively […]
Join the Association of Chinese Americans on October 29 at 6:30 p.m. at the Chinese Community Center for a special book talk with acclaimed author, filmmaker, and activist Curtis Chin, author of the award-winning memoir Everything I Learned, I Learned in a Chinese Restaurant. Hosted by the ACA Teen Volunteer Council, the evening will […]
Join Michigan State University for an evening with Great Michigan Read author Curtis Chin, author of the award-winning memoir Everything I Learned, I Learned in a Chinese Restaurant. A co-founder of the Asian American Writers’ Workshop in New York City, Curtis Chin served as the nonprofit's first Executive Director. He went on to write comedy […]
As part of the Grand Valley Writers Series, award-winning author Curtis Chin will read from, discuss, and answer questions about his acclaimed memoir, Everything I Learned, I Learned in a Chinese Restaurant, which was selected as the 2025-26 Great Michigan Read. The memoir follows Chin from childhood through college graduation, sharing life lessons he learned while […]
In this virtual event, historian Lindsay Chervinsky and author Louisa Thomas explore the extraordinary political and personal partnership of John Quincy Adams and Louisa Catherine Adams. This program highlights their role in shaping early American diplomacy, political identity, and the evolving expectations of public service. Together, the speakers illuminate a marriage that was both deeply […]
Join South Haven Memorial Library for an author talk with Curtis Chin on October 27 at 6 p.m. His award-winning memoir, Everything I Learned, I Learned in a Chinese Restaurant is about self-discovery, activism, and the power of storytelling. Learn more here. The 2025-2026 Great Michigan Read is presented by: Michigan Humanities and additional support […]
In this virtual event, historian Alexis Coe offers a fresh, lively, and deeply researched look at John F. Kennedy. Moving beyond the familiar “Camelot” narrative, she explores how JFK constructed his public identity, how his presidency reshaped American culture, and why his story continues to captivate generations. A smart, engaging program for anyone interested in […]
Join Michigan Humanities as we kick off the Great Michigan Gathering with an event featuring Priya Parker, author of The Art of Gathering: How We Meet and Why It Matters. Through a conversation between Parker and Michigan Humanities' President and CEO, Jennifer Rupp, you'll be inspired to gather in community with your peers, learn why […]
In this virtual event, beloved civic educator Sharon McMahon examines the short but symbolically powerful presidency of William Henry Harrison. Through engaging stories and myth-busting insights, she explores how Harrison’s campaign transformed political messaging and how presidential narratives—true or not—shape public memory. An ideal program for audiences who enjoy accessible, energetic history. This virtual event […]
In this virtual event, Pulitzer Prize–winning historian Jack Rakove examines the intellectual world of James Madison and the forces that shaped the U.S. Constitution. Through clear, accessible storytelling, Rakove reveals how Madison’s ideas on representation, factions, and federalism continue to guide (and challenge) American civic life today. A foundational exploration perfect for audiences seeking deeper […]
Join Great Michigan Read author, Curtis Chin, on August 8 for remarks, a conversation, audience Q&A, and book signing at Macomb County Pride in collaboration with Mount Clemens Public Library. Curtis will share brief remarks at the Macomb County Pride main stage in downtown Mount Clemens at 12:10 p.m. At 12:15 p.m. at the Courthouse […]
Join Great Michigan Read author, Curtis Chin, on July 29 at 6 p.m. for a conversation and book signing at the Southfield Public Library. Additional details are available on Southfield Public Library's website and Facebook event. This partner event is made possible in part by a Great Michigan Read Action Grant.
Join Great Michigan Read author, Curtis Chin, on July 28 at 7 p.m. for a conversation and book signing at the Caroline Kennedy Library in Dearborn Heights. Additional details are available on Dearborn Heights' website and Facebook page. This partner event is made possible in part by a Great Michigan Read Action Grant.
Great Michigan Read author Curtis Chin will visit Mon Jin Lau in Troy from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Monday, July 27 for a conversation and book signing. This free event includes a meal from Mon Jin Lau and a copy of "Everything I Learned, I Learned in a Chinese Restaurant." Space is limited and we […]
Join Great Michigan Read partners Detroit Chinatown Vision Committee on Saturday, July 25, for their second annual Detroit Chinatown Block Party. This free and family-friendly event will feature a dynamic lineup of DJs, cultural performances, and interactive activities designed to educate and engage attendees about the legacy and future of Detroit’s Chinatown. Haven't had a […]
Join the LGBTQ+ History Association for a Pride Month event featuring three writers whose work explores Detroit’s queer histories. Curtis Chin will read from his memoir, Everything I Learned, I Learned in a Chinese Restaurant. Mix Mann will present their research on the life of the Detroit-based Black lesbian activist Ruth Ellis, and Tim Retzloff […]
Join co-hosts Ogemaw District Library and West Branch District Library on May 15 at 7 p.m., at the China Inn Restaurant for a free event featuring a conversation with Curtis Chin, author of the current Great Michigan Read, Everything I Learned, I Learned in a Chinese Restaurant. Following a conversation with Curtis, books will be […]