Welcome to (Virtual) ChemChat!
This program was started in 2018 to facilitate connections, collaborations, and conversations within the MIT Department of Chemistry. Since the founding of our program, we have provided over 100 meals to members of the department. Our program has been generously supported by the MIT MindHandHeart Intiaitive. Given current circumstances, we will be moving to an all-virtual book club format to foster community, especially in these challenging times.
We are excited to announce the launch of ChemChat Antiracist Book Club for Fall 2020. We invite Chemistry students, postdocs, staff, and faculty to join in, read critically important books, and discuss in a small group setting. You’ll have the option of reading one of two books per month and meeting virtually to spark conversations and continue the critical discussion kindled during #ShutDownSTEM. Our first virtual gathering will take place in mid-October.
This first month, those participating have the option of reading either How to Be an Antiracist by Ibram Kendi or White Fragility: Why It's So Hard for White People to Talk About Racism by Robin DiAngelo. Both of these books are currently available for free for staff members, faculty, and postdocs through MyLifeServices by navigating to https://my.kgalifeservices.
Students and visitors who plan to participate have the option of borrowing a book through our lending library (email chemchat at mit.edu to make a request) or by requesting reimbursement for a purchased book. We ask that those who seek reimbursement please try to attend a discussion session where possible.
The kickoff events are planned for mid-October, and we plan to hold monthly events thereafter. Whether you’re free in October or interested in participating down the line, we hope you’ll consider signing up here. We are also seeking individuals who are interested in helping to facilitate these important, small-group discussions (a guide will be provided to all facilitators).
This program is generously supported by the MindHandHeart Initiative and the School of Science Quality of Life Grant..
