Simmons Center member ConTextos has created a Podcast called “Complicating the Narrative,” where Chicago authors and staff at ConTextos are able to dismantle the misconceptions commonly associated with people living in communities facing poverty and barriers to economic development due to racism, violence, and trauma. The podcast contains true stories that illuminate, elevate voices, create proximity, challenge assumptions, build empathy, stimulate conversation, and change minds and actions of diverse audiences.
Complicating the Narrative has been an ongoing project from ConTextos. Over the summer of 2019, six Alumni Authors collaborated with Juneteenth Productions to produce the first season of the podcast. The second season, produced by and featuring authors and staff from throughout Chicago and El Salvador, is available now. Not only has ConTextos given local communities a platform to share their stories, but their impact stretches internationally as well. ConTextos staff in El Salvador created a podcast as well called “Resonantes.” ConTextos’ reach has spread to the east side of El Salvador, in alliance with the municipalities, bringing literacy to the rural communities of Northern Morazán. Like Complicating the Narrative, Resonantes aims to develop dialogue and debate, self-reflection and self-actualization. From challenging social misconceptions in Chicago to increasing the quality of education in El Salvador, ConTextos has shown commitment to create learning environments that promote reflection and dialogue as the foundations for emotional and professional success.
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