Conversations for Change

Join us in the Wayland Free Public Library’s Round Room for a series of discussions designed to deepen understanding, bridge past and present, create brave spaces for dialogue, and strengthen inclusion in Wayland and beyond.

Facilitated by Wayland resident Dr. Eden-Reneé Hayes of Pluralism Solutions, each session will consist of a (non-required) pre-reading to spark reflection, a guided conversation, and a time for reflection and identification of next steps. Light refreshments will be served.

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When Fear Shapes Belonging

Paul Robeson Testifies Before House Un-American Activities Committee

When fear replaces curiosity, communities shrink.

Using the McCarthy era and the targeting of Paul Robeson as a historical anchor, come and discuss how fear and suspicion have been used—past and present—to sort people into rigid categories of “acceptable” and “dangerous.” We will explore how fear-driven narratives and the urge to publicly label or distance ourselves from others continue to shape our institutions, our conversations, and our community life.

Made possible by the Gossels Family Fund for Human Dignity, the Marian Draper Fund, and the Friends of the Wayland Library. Funded in part by a grant from the Wayland Cultural Council, a local agency which is supported by Mass Cultural Council, a state agency. Jointly sponsored by the Wayland Free Public Library, the Wayland Museum and Historical Society, and the Wayland Human Rights, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee.