Retracing Our Roots

What is "Retracing Our Roots" Retreat?

We are inviting students who are interested in examining issues in identity, ethnicity, and citizenship in the AAPI experience through roundtable discussions, outdoor activities, and workshops.

This free retreat is meant to have the participants think about and investigate the aspects of identity, a diverse space experienced by so many individuals from immigrant and minority backgrounds, and certainly by many Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. We want to provide participants an opportunity to understand the intersections of identity and culture, to find a place of comfort in situations that may be uncomfortable, and to discover self-empowerment through knowledge and affirmation.

 

Hear from Participants:

[The retreat] drove home for me that we all have different experiences, but that we are all welcome in this community.

Surprisingly, I found out [at the retreat] that, even though we were from different Asian groups, we had really similar experiences in prejudices we faced.

I had such an incredible time at the Retracing Our Roots Retreat last year! My favorite part was getting to meet and connect with other AAPI students from other IU schools! It was such a safe and comforting environment to learn about your individual identities, hear about other people's experiences, and have those hard conversations. I truly learned so much from the speakers and about my own identities and culture and how they all intersect. I also loved hearing about the history of Asian Americans in the US and how collective action and coalitions have helped build the communities we see today across the US and at all the IU campuses. It really is such a unique and special experience, and not only helped me make some truly lifelong friends, but also taught me a lot of valuable lessons along the way! Would highly recommend taking advantage of this opportunity! 

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Participants Can Expect:

  1. to meet other students who want to learn about what it means to be an Asian American and/or Pacific Islander
  2. to participate in discussions on relevant issues affecting the AAPI community
  3. to gain mentorship and meaningful exchanges with other students who are involved in the community

Attendees will participate in small group discussions, outdoor activities, and workshops led by educators and students. Featured topics will include:

  • Asian American history
  • Current issues affecting the AAPI community
  • Ethnic identity and culture

This program is FREE! We will cover your meals and transportation to and from Bradford Woods. 

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