The University of Nebraska Diversity Officers Collaborative, the University of Nebraska–Lincoln Office of Diversity and Inclusion, and the Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources are bringing “The Defamation Experience” to campus Sept. 24-25.
The play is a courtroom drama that explores issues of race, class, religion, gender and the law with a twist — the audience serves as the jury. The program, which includes audience deliberation and a facilitated discussion, is a unique opportunity to engage in civil discourse about pressing social issues.
The production will be staged from noon to 2 p.m. Sept. 24 in the Nebraska Union’s Centennial Room; and 3 to 5 p.m. Sept. 25 in the Hardin Hall Auditorium. It is part of ongoing efforts to foster collective ownership of diversity, access and inclusion efforts across the entire NU system. Admission is free.
The play centers on a defamation lawsuit between a south side African American female business owner and a wealthy Jewish north shore real estate developer. Following the 75-minute trial, the judge will lead the audience through deliberation. An audience vote will decide the outcome of the trial.
Since “The Defamation Experience” premiered in 2010, thousands of people nationwide have participated, examining themselves, preconceived concepts and responses, and the themes touched on by the play.
