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DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260203T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260203T191500
DTSTAMP:20260525T074618
CREATED:20260105T210524Z
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SUMMARY:Identity and Belonging in Xi Jinping's China with Emily Feng
DESCRIPTION:We welcome Emily Feng\, NPR International Correspondent. \n  \nIn today’s China\, questions of identity are no longer private. They are political\, enforced\, and deeply personal. This talk explores contemporary China through lived experience\, drawing on NPR correspondent Emily Feng’s reporting and her new book on identity and belonging under Xi Jinping. Blending analysis with vivid personal stories\, it examines how politics and ideology shape everyday life for people from diverse ethnic\, religious\, and cultural backgrounds. The discussion highlights the tension between China’s social diversity and the state’s increasingly narrow vision of national identity\, as well as how individuals navigate pressure to conform. It also addresses the challenges of reporting from inside China today and explains why human-centered narratives are essential for understanding the country beyond headlines and geopolitics. Join us for an intriguing discussion on the role of identity in political conformity and resistance in China today. \n  \nA reception for this event will take place from 5:15 – 6pm. Join us and meet other community members interested in the world. \n  \nLocation and Parking – Please note changes due to government shutdown: \nThe new location for this program will be hosted at Grand Rapids Community College’s Applied Technology Center (ATC) Auditorium\, 151 Fountain NE. \nParking is available in Ramp A (which is on Ransom Ave NE\, just north of Fountain)\, and attendees will be given an exit ticket. You may walk across the bridge from the parking ramp to the ATC and enter directly on Ransom. Information regarding the location of the rest of the series will be updated on our website as information becomes available. \nLink to GRCC campus map:  https://www.grcc.edu/about-grcc/campus-maps \nTickets \nThe event is free and open to the public and registration and/or tickets are not required to attend in person. \nVideo recordings of all programs will be posted on our YouTube channel\, click here. \n  \n  \nOur Supporters \nMore information on the Foreign Policy Association Special thanks to the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation Special thanks to the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library and Museum Special thanks to Recording sponsor Grand Rapids Community College Special thanks to Media sponsors\, WGVU and Grand Rapids Community Media Center Special thanks to Topic sponsor Grand Valley State University \n  \n\n\n\n\n\n\nOn July 4\, 2026\, our nation will commemorate and celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The journey toward this historic milestone is an opportunity to pause and reflect on our nation’s past\, honor the contributions of all Americans\, and look ahead toward the future we want to create for the next generation and beyond. This year’s Great Decisions series reflects our country’s long history in global affairs and the current events that shape our continued engagement with the world. To join in other America250 initiatives\, visit: https://america250.org/
URL:https://worldmichigan.org/event/identity-and-belonging-in-xi-jinpings-china-with-emily-feng/
LOCATION:Wisner-Botrall Applied Technology Center\, 151 Fountain St NE\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, 49503\, United States
CATEGORIES:Great Decisions
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://worldmichigan.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/SIX_95888C62-E81F-4479-B3FA-1A47F1690E0F.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260210T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260210T191500
DTSTAMP:20260525T074618
CREATED:20260105T211046Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260120T194408Z
UID:10000078-1770746400-1770750900@worldmichigan.org
SUMMARY:Can the Post-WWII International Order Survive the 21st Century? With Joel Westra
DESCRIPTION:We welcome\, Joel Westra\, Department Chair\, Professor\, Director\, Pre-Law Program\, Calvin University \n  \nAfter World War II ended\, countries created the United Nations Charter\, which was meant to help organize the world and prevent future conflict. Since that time\, governments have worked through these international organizations to manage shared global challenges like humanitarian crises\, environmental protection\, economic cooperation\, and peace and security. These institutions were designed to reflect common goals\, as well as balance power among countries\, now\, shifts in global power and national priorities have begun to reshape how these institutions function. As a result\, many people are now questioning whether the current international system still works as well as it once did. Join Dr. Westra as he maps out the history of our international system and where we go from here. \n  \nA reception for this event will take place from 5:15 – 6pm. Join us and meet other community members interested in the world. \n  \nLocation and Parking \nThe program will take place at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum (303 Pearl St NW\, Grand Rapids\, MI 49504). \nFree parking is available. \nTickets \nThe event is free and open to the public and registration and/or tickets are not required to attend in person. \nVideo recordings of all programs will be posted on our YouTube channel\, click here. \n  \nOur Supporters  \nMore information on the Foreign Policy Association Special thanks to the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation Special thanks to the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library and Museum Special thanks to Recording sponsor Grand Rapids Community College Special thanks to Media sponsors\, WGVU and Grand Rapids Community Media Center Special thanks to Calvin University \n  \n\n\n\n\n\n\nOn July 4\, 2026\, our nation will commemorate and celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The journey toward this historic milestone is an opportunity to pause and reflect on our nation’s past\, honor the contributions of all Americans\, and look ahead toward the future we want to create for the next generation and beyond. This year’s Great Decisions series reflects our country’s long history in global affairs and the current events that shape our continued engagement with the world. To join in other America250 initiatives\, visit: https://america250.org/
URL:https://worldmichigan.org/event/can-the-post-wwii-international-order-survive-the-21st-century-with-joel-westra/
LOCATION:Gerald R. Ford Presidential Mueum\, 303 Pearl St. NW\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, 49504\, United States
CATEGORIES:Great Decisions
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://worldmichigan.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/SIX_3B639946-8E03-4F54-AB7B-7D06C4F0B417.jpeg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260212T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260212T133000
DTSTAMP:20260525T074618
CREATED:20260128T150220Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260211T164207Z
UID:10000084-1770897600-1770903000@worldmichigan.org
SUMMARY:Great Decisions Lunch and Learn: The Future of Multilateral institutions
DESCRIPTION:  \nJoin us for informal Lunch & Learn sessions tied to the World Affairs Council’s Great Decisions global discussion series\, co-hosted with the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation and Museum. \n  \nEach session includes lunch\, a 30-minute Foreign Policy Association video on the week’s topic\, and a guided discussion led by World Affairs Council and Foundation staff. It’s a convenient daytime option for those who want to dive into world affairs but can’t attend evening programs. \n  \nFree to attend; registration required. Free parking at the Ford Museum. Discussions take place in the DeVos Learning Center within the Ford Museum. \n  \nWith thanks to the Foreign Policy Association for the development of their Great Decisions program\, America’s largest discussion program on world affairs. Special thanks to the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation and to the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library and Museum for their partnership. \nAs we approach America’s 250th anniversary in 2026\, this year’s series invites us to reflect on our nation’s global role—past\, present\, and future. Learn more about America250 initiatives at america250.org. \n  \nProgram Details \nThursday\, February 12: The Future of Multilateral Institutions \n  \nCan multilateralism survive amid shifting global power and rising nationalism? This program examines the future of global cooperation across trade\, health\, and finance. \n  \nThis program supplements the February 10 evening event with Dr. Joel Westra\, who will be presenting “Can the Post-WWII International Order Survive the 21st Century?” Attendance at the evening event is not required to participate in this lunch and learn.
URL:https://worldmichigan.org/event/great-decisions-lunch-and-learn-the-future-of-multilateral-institutions/
LOCATION:Gerald R. Ford Presidential Mueum\, 303 Pearl St. NW\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, 49504\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://worldmichigan.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Lunchlearn1212.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260218T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260218T191500
DTSTAMP:20260525T074618
CREATED:20260114T190446Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260128T151929Z
UID:10000080-1771437600-1771442100@worldmichigan.org
SUMMARY:Inside Kyiv: A Conversation with Ambassador (ret.) Bridget A. Brink
DESCRIPTION:We welcome Ambassador Bridget A. Brink\, former U.S. Ambassador to Ukraine. \n  \nWhat does it mean to defend democracy while living under daily missile attacks? Drawing on her experience leading the U.S. Embassy in Kyiv during Russia’s full-scale invasion\, Ambassador Bridget Brink discusses Ukraine’s fight for sovereignty and the challenges of sustaining democratic resilience during war. The human toll of the conflict\, as well as the stakes for European and global security\, underscore why the war in Ukraine remains a defining challenge for the international order and for democratic societies worldwide. Join us for this program that provides a timely opportunity to understand how the conflict continues to reshape Ukraine\, transatlantic relations\, and the international order. \n  \nLocation & Parking  \n***Please note for this event only\, Ambassador Brink’s program will be held at East Grand Rapids High School’s Little Auditorium (Little Aud) (2211 Lake Dr SE\, East Grand Rapids\, MI 49506). Free parking is available in any of the campus lots (see attached campus map)\, but the closest and most accessible parking and entrance is off Bagley Ave. SE.*** \n  \nTickets \nThe event is free and open to the public and registration and/or tickets are not required to attend in person. \nVideo recordings of all programs will be posted on our YouTube channel\, click here. \n  \nOur Supporters  \nMore information on the Foreign Policy Association. Special thanks to Video sponsor Grand Rapids Community College Special thanks to Media sponsors\, WGVU and Grand Rapids Community Media Center \n  \n  \nOn July 4\, 2026\, our nation will commemorate and celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The journey toward this historic milestone is an opportunity to pause and reflect on our nation’s past\, honor the contributions of all Americans\, and look ahead toward the future we want to create for the next generation and beyond. This year’s Great Decisions series reflects our country’s long history in global affairs and the current events that shape our continued engagement with the world. To join in other America250 initiatives\, visit: https://america250.org/
URL:https://worldmichigan.org/event/inside-kyiv-a-conversation-with-ambassador-ret-bridget-a-brink/
LOCATION:East Grand Rapids High School Little Auditorium\, 2211 Lake Drive SE\, East Grand Rapids\, MI\, 49506
CATEGORIES:Great Decisions
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://worldmichigan.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Brink2026.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260224T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260224T191500
DTSTAMP:20260525T074618
CREATED:20260114T192604Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260120T194850Z
UID:10000081-1771956000-1771960500@worldmichigan.org
SUMMARY:Decolonizing African Agriculture: Food\, Security\, & the Need for Radical Transformation with Bill Moseley
DESCRIPTION:We welcome Bill Moseley\, Dewitt Wallace Professor of Geography\, Macalester College  \n  \nThis presentation examines the evolution of food security and agricultural development in post-colonial Africa and outlines a more sustainable path forward. Challenging the long-held assumption that increased production alone can end hunger\, it argues for rethinking agriculture as a valued livelihood rather than merely a step toward industrialization. Using case studies from Mali\, Burkina Faso\, South Africa\, and Botswana\, Dr. Moseley highlights successful alternatives and explores how new institutions and policies can support resilient food systems\, greater local control\, and improved access to food for the most vulnerable. Join us for this intriguing conversation. \n  \nLocation and Parking \nThe program will take place at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum (303 Pearl St NW\, Grand Rapids\, MI 49504). \nFree parking is available. \n  \nTickets \nThe event is free and open to the public and registration and/or tickets are not required to attend in person. \nVideo recordings of all programs will be posted on our YouTube channel\, click here. \n  \nOur Supporters \nMore information on the Foreign Policy Association Special thanks to the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation Special thanks to the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library and Museum Special thanks to Recording sponsor Grand Rapids Community College Special thanks to Media sponsors\, WGVU and Grand Rapids Community Media Center Special thanks to Topic sponsors Grand Rapids Community College\, the American Association of Geographers \, the International Geographical Honor Society\, and the City of Holland \nOn July 4\, 2026\, our nation will commemorate and celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The journey toward this historic milestone is an opportunity to pause and reflect on our nation’s past\, honor the contributions of all Americans\, and look ahead toward the future we want to create for the next generation and beyond. This year’s Great Decisions series reflects our country’s long history in global affairs and the current events that shape our continued engagement with the world. To join in other America250 initiatives\, visit: https://america250.org/
URL:https://worldmichigan.org/event/beyond-the-map-africa-today-with-bill-moseley/
LOCATION:Gerald R. Ford Presidential Mueum\, 303 Pearl St. NW\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, 49504\, United States
CATEGORIES:Great Decisions
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://worldmichigan.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Moseley2026.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260226T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260226T133000
DTSTAMP:20260525T074618
CREATED:20260128T150725Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260209T181209Z
UID:10000085-1772107200-1772112600@worldmichigan.org
SUMMARY:Great Decisions Lunch and Learn: U.S. Engagement of Africa
DESCRIPTION:  \nJoin us for informal Lunch & Learn sessions tied to the World Affairs Council’s Great Decisions global discussion series\, co-hosted with the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation and Museum. \n  \nEach session includes lunch\, a 30-minute Foreign Policy Association video on the week’s topic\, and a guided discussion led by World Affairs Council and Foundation staff. It’s a convenient daytime option for those who want to dive into world affairs but can’t attend evening programs. \n  \nFree to attend; registration required. Free parking at the Ford Museum. Discussions take place in the DeVos Learning Center within the Ford Museum. \n  \nWith thanks to the Foreign Policy Association for the development of their Great Decisions program\, America’s largest discussion program on world affairs. Special thanks to the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation and to the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library and Museum for their partnership. \nAs we approach America’s 250th anniversary in 2026\, this year’s series invites us to reflect on our nation’s global role—past\, present\, and future. Learn more about America250 initiatives at america250.org. \n  \nProgram Details \nThursday\, February 26: U.S. Engagement of Africa \n  \nAfrica’s geopolitical role is growing. What lessons can the U.S. learn from China’s presence there\, and how might it strengthen ties\, especially with leading nations like Nigeria? What tools of statecraft might the U.S. bring to its engagement with Africa? \nThis program is in supplement of the February 24 evening event with Dr. Bill Moseley\, who will be presenting “Decolonizing African Agriculture”
URL:https://worldmichigan.org/event/great-decisions-lunch-and-learn-africa/
LOCATION:Gerald R. Ford Presidential Mueum\, 303 Pearl St. NW\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, 49504\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://worldmichigan.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/lunchandlearn2226.jpg
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