Lecture Series
Lunar New Year
WED., FEB. 5, 2025
Join us for an unforgettable evening as we welcome the Year of the Snake in style! Dress in your favorite cultural attire and immerse yourself in a vibrant night filled with delicious food, lively music, captivating performances, engaging games, and meaningful connections. This exciting event is brought to you by International House and the Asian Policy Forum, in collaboration with the Center for East Asian Studies (CEAS), GRAD Council, the Office of Minority Student Affairs (OMSA), and the UChicago Student Government. Don’t miss this opportunity to honor tradition, celebrate diversity, and connect with the community. Mark your calendar and join us for a night to remember!
Superconvergence: Transforming Lives in the Age of AI, Genetics, and Biotechnology
MON., FEB. 3, 2025
Join renowned thought leader Jamie Metzl in this virtual discussion as he unpacks his latest book, Superconvergence: Transforming Lives in the Age of AI, Genetics, and Biotechnology. Jamie explores how AI, genetics, and biotechnology revolutionize our lives, work, and world. From ChatGPT to breakthroughs in biotech, discover how these advancements are reshaping healthcare, economies, and our global interdependence. Don’t miss this pivotal conversation on thriving in a rapidly changing future!
Bridging Cultures Through Contemporary Poetry in Ireland and the US
THU., JAN. 30, 2025
The Consulate General of Ireland, Chicago, in collaboration with International House, invites you to a St Brigid's Day celebration at the historic University of Chicago campus. This year's event will showcase the lyrical artistry of award-winning Irish poet Victoria Kennefick and University of Chicago Professor Rachel Galvin. Join us for an evening of poetry readings and reflective conversations on the influential role of women’s voices in the arts, including a special tribute to Eavan Boland, a towering figure in Irish literature.
Trumpian Tumult: What Europe’s Meltdown Means For Us
WED., JAN. 29, 2025
Political disarray throughout Europe offers lessons – and warnings – for the United States. From the rise of authoritarian populism in Hungary and Turkey and the collapse of the German and French governments to economic disarray in Britain and the growing clout of a right-wing prime minister in Italy, what are the common and discordant political challenges across both continents?
COP29, Youth Voices, and the Future of Our Planet
WED., JAN. 15, 2025
In November 2024, the Institute for Climate and Sustainable Growth and UChicago Career Advancement sponsored 25 student delegates to attend the COP29 international climate change conference in Baku, Azerbaijan, where they learned about the inner-workings of policy and politics at a global scale. Join us for an in-depth conversation with the students about COP29, the $300 billion deal that will offer funds in developing countries to finance climate change initiatives, their experiences, and the role you can play as a climate champion.
A Conversation With The Permanent Representative of Ukraine to the United Nations
WED., JAN. 15, 2025
Join us for a special conversation with Ambassador Kyslytsia, Permanent Representative of Ukraine to the United Nations, as we explore the vital role of Ukraine within the United Nations framework.
India-U.S. Relations Under the New U.S. President
TUE., JAN. 14, 2025
Join International House of Chicago and the Indo-American Friendship Association, New Delhi for a moderated panel discussion on India-U.S. relations following the general election held in India this past spring and the recent presidential election in the U.S..
Mayor Brandon Johnson in the Hot Seat
THU., JAN. 09, 2025
In the hot seat: Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson joins us in conversation with University of Chicago Students. Mayor Johnson opens the winter quarter in conversation with Shannon Dye (AB ‘25), Alyssa Manthi (AB ‘26), and Alexandria Porter (AB ‘25) on faith, education, taxes, transit and the complexities of the youth vote.
“Landing the Paris Climate Agreement” — Todd Stern
WED., DEC. 4, 2024
Join International House and the Energy Policy Institute as we welcome former United States Special Envoy for Climate Change Todd Stern for a discussion on his new book Landing the Paris Climate Agreement, where he provides an inside account of the seven-year negotiation that culminated in the Paris Climate Agreement in 2015. He will be in conversation with Pete Ogden, Vice President for Climate and Environment at the United Nations Foundation.
Curry Food Fest
TUE., DEC. 3, 2024
Join International House on a culinary adventure at the Curry Food Fest, where you will be able to savor the bold, aromatic, and mouthwatering flavors of curries from around the world! Whether you're a curry connoisseur or a first-timer, there'll be something for everyone.
LAMsgiving
THU., NOV. 21, 2024
Join International House and Latin American Matters as we host this special LAMsgiving Day celebration! This delicious feast will feature authentic dishes from various Latin American countries as we spend time reflecting on what we are thankful for with our peers.
The Sanctions Dilemma: Navigating Diplomacy and Conflict in Iran and Beyond
WED., NOV. 20, 2024
Sanctions have enormous consequences. Do economic sanctions induce the behavioral changes intended? Do sanctions work in the way they should? To answer these questions, the authors of How Sanctions Work highlight Iran, the most sanctioned country in the world. Join us for a discussion with Narges Bajoghli and Vali Nasr, moderated by Pearson Faculty Affiliate Paul Poast.
Southeast Asia Night
THU., NOV. 14, 2024
Join International House and the Asian Policy Forum as we honor the vibrant cultural heritage of Southeast Asia! This special night will be filled with food and performances from diverse cuisines and cultures throughout the region.
Veterans Day Recognition 2024
MON., NOV. 11, 2024
Join the University of Chicago’s annual Veterans Day recognition as we host members from Army Medicine and Army Chaplaincy’s to discuss efforts that optimize wellness for Soldiers and their families.
Día de Muertos
WED., NOV. 6, 2024
Join International House to celebrate Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead) in community and remember those who are no longer with us. The night will include an ofrenda (altar), as well as authentic food and drinks. It's a special occasion for coming together, and we hope you can join us!
Jorge Emmanuelli Náter presents Bomba & Plena Musical Traditions
TUE., OCT. 29, 2024
Music welcome Jorge Emmanuelli Náter, the great grandson of master Bomba practitioner Sergio Náter Peña. Jorge embodies the legacy of at least 100 years of Afro-Puerto Rican music and culture knowledge in his family. Jorge is joined by UChicago Director of Afro-Cuban Folkloric Ensemble, Sam Werk, and other prominent Chicagoland musicians in this lecture demonstration exploring the rich history of the Bomba and Plena musical traditions.
International Korean Traditional Performing Arts Competition
SAT., OCT. 26, 2024
Join International House as we host the 2024 International Korean Traditional Performing Arts Competition for an afternoon of dance, music, and celebration. Arts troupes and organizations from across the Midwest will demonstrate a variety of performances that illustrate the artists’ talents and their passion for Korean arts.
inDANCE presents Love Songs: Metaphor and Movement inspired by Bharatanatyam dance
FRI., OCT. 25, 2024
Join International House and the Department of Music as we welcome inDANCE, the 2024-25 Don Michael Randel Ensemble-in-Residence, for a solo work performed and choreographed by 2024 Guggenheim Fellow Hari Krishnan, representing the Karnatak (South Indian classical music) tradition, and accompanied by four musicians.
Next Generation Leaders: Cultivating a Culture of Peace
THU., OCT. 24, 2024
This year marks the 100th anniversary of the international house idea, dedicated to fostering peace. Join us for a discussion featuring four remarkable young leaders who completed Davis Projects for Peace this summer, focusing on issues like digital literacy in Nepal, digital empowerment in Nigeria, LGBTQ+ discrimination in Turkey, and gender-based violence in Vietnam.
French Music Festival: Quatuor Ellipsos
WED., OCT. 23, 2024
France Chicago Center, Spedidam, International House Chicago, and Rockefeller Memorial Chapel present Quatuor Ellipsos, one of today’s most prestigious saxophone quartets. Members Paul-Fathi-Lacombe, Julien-Bréchet , Sylvain-Jarry , and Nicolas-Herrouët celebrate their 21st season with concerts and masterclasses in Belgium, France, Germany, Japan and the USA.
Culture and Markets: The Potent Mix that Fueled Growth from the Industrial Revolution to the Present
TUE., OCT. 22, 2024
What explains the West’s extraordinary economic growth over the past two centuries? What are the factors that dramatically improved standards of living for millions of people over time? And are these forces immutable? What are the challenges facing capitalism today? Join Deirdre McCloskey, Joel Mokyr, and James Robinson, along with moderator James Heckman, as they debate and discuss the origins, development, and future of economic growth.
Haiti: A Deep Look
MON., OCT. 21, 2024
Haiti, the country that sparked the first successful slave revolt in world history, has been beset by political and natural disasters nearly ever since, from oppressive slave-era debt deals, poor infrastructure, myriad earthquakes, a devastating cholera outbreak, rampant corruption and scant humanitarian funding. Hear from two prominent Haitians first-hand about the situation on the ground and the future of this embattled country. Featuring former Prime Minister of Haiti Michèle Pierre-Louis in conversation with Patrick Gaspard, President of the Center for American Progress. Fritznel D. Octave of the Haitian Times will moderate.
Election 2024: Is the News Media Up to the Job? — A Conversation with Margaret Sullivan
SAT., OCT. 19, 2024
Join award-winning columnist, author, and former New York Times public editor Margaret Sullivan to survey the volatile course of Election 2024 in the news media. How successfully are mainstream news organizations navigating the events of the presidential race? In a media environment crowded with distractions and misinformation, are traditional news outlets proving able to serve voters’ needs?
6th Annual Girls Education Conference
FRI., OCT. 18, 2024
The 6th Annual Girls Education Conference, with unlimited global capacity, is designed for educators, investors, innovators and inventors or anyone interested in education. The theme for this year’s conference is Fostering equitable access to education and technology for girls.
2024 Student Experiences in Global Health & Social Development
TUE., OCT. 15, 2024
Join International House as we welcome the Susan and Richard Kiphart Center for Global Health & Social Development and the Center for Innovation in Global Health at the University of Chicago for student presentations on global health and development research, internships, and other learning experiences from the summer of 2024.
Listen, Learn, and Lunch with Asian Sound Revolution Musicians!
MON., OCT. 14, 2024
Join this family-friendly program that provides a chance to hear the captivating music of international acclaimed musicians, Jin Hi Kim, Min Xiao-Fen, and Susie Ibarra, who utilize classic instruments, stylized vocal techniques, electronic effects, and improvisations to make a musical style all their own.
OMAC Welcome Picnic
SAT., OCT. 12, 2024
Join the UChicago Veterans and Family Readiness Program and International House in welcoming military-affiliated persons to the Chicagoland community during our annual Welcome Picnic! Enjoy food, drinks, games, music, and more.
What Might Peace Look Like?
THU., OCT. 10, 2024
Join us for a conversation with Professor Salam Fayyad, former prime minister of the Palestinian Authority and Visiting Senior Scholar at Princeton University. Fayyad will be in conversation with Professor Tom Ginsburg, Faculty Director of the Chicago Forum. Engage in an exercise with Booth Professor Nicholas Epley to practice talking about the Israel and Palestine conflict with your fellow audience members, through the lens of peace: what it may look like and how we get there.
18th Annual Hyde Park Jazz Festival
SAT., SEP. 28, 2024
International House is proud to support the 18th Annual Hyde Park Jazz Festival! Each year, this jazz celebration features the finest artists in local, national, and international jazz. This year, to launch our Global Voices Performing Arts programming season, we will host performances by Pharez Whitted Quintet and the Natural Information Society Community Ensemble with Ari Brown.
Václav Havel Lecture: Petr Pavel, President of the Czech Republic
THU., SEP. 26, 2024
CEERES, the University of Chicago Division of the Social Sciences, and International House present the inaugural event in the Václav Havel Lecture Series, commemorating the Czech dissident, playwright, and statesman. His Excellency Petr Pavel, president of the Czech Republic, will give an address titled “The Transatlantic Bond: Challenges and Opportunities.” He will be joined in conversation by Benjamin Frommer of Northwestern University.
ANTYTILA: Culture vs. War
MON., SEP. 16, 2024
Join the Global Voices Program for an intimate evening with Ukrainian rock band ANTYTILA, featuring a film screening, Q&A session, and a short performance as part of their "Culture vs. War" Project.
CANCELLED: Chhattisgarh Folk group – Bastar Band
FRI., SEP. 13, 2024
Come enjoy an Indian folk-dance performance!
Thailand-ASEAN-U.S. Partnership Lecture
WED., AUG. 21, 2024
The International House of Chicago Global Voices Diplomatic Encounters Series and the Royal Thai Consulate-General in Chicago present a special lecture by Dr. Suriya Chindawongse, the Ambassador of Thailand to the United States on “Thailand-ASEAN-U.S. Partnership in an Era of Global-Regional Change and Challenges: Obstacles, Opportunities, and Options.” Dr. Chindawongse will be in conversation with John Mark Hansen, Charles L. Hutchinson Distinguished Service Professor in the Department of Political Science and the College at The University of Chicago.