Mending the Fraying Social Fabric
Writing Personal Essays That Weave What's Unraveling
A Fundraiser Benefiting the ACLU
“This is precisely the time when artists go to work. There is no time for despair, no place for self-pity, no need for silence, no room for fear. We speak, we write, we do language. That is how civilizations heal.”
—Toni Morrison
Join us for an illuminating conversation with three accomplished personal essay writers as they explore how individual stories can work to repair the social fabric so many are trying to pull apart.
In this special panel discussion benefiting the ACLU, our guests will examine the unique power of personal essays to change beliefs, transform behaviors, and strengthen community bonds.
At a time when society often feels increasingly fragmented, these writers will share how authentic personal narratives can create unexpected connections and foster deeper understanding across diverse human lives.
Through their insights and examples, you'll discover how the intimate act of sharing your story can become a powerful tool for creating connection in deeply divisive time.
Meet the Panelists
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Noah Michelson
Director, HuffPo Personal
Noah Michelson is the director of HuffPost Personal, which he launched in 2018, and the co-host and executive producer of HuffPost's "Am I Doing It Wrong?" podcast. He received his MFA in Poetry from New York University, and has been featured on MSNBC, NPR, Sirius XM, and other outlets.
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Emma Pattee
Essayist and Author, Tilt
Climate journalist, essayist, and fiction writer, Emma coined the phrase“climate shadow” to describe an individual’s potential impact on climate change. After the release of her book, Tilt, Vogue described her as “a powerful new literary voice.” Of her book, Publisher’s Weekly said, “Shocking and full of heart, this leaves a mark.”
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Edgar Gomez
Memoirist and Author, Alligator Tears
Edgar Gomez is a queer NicaRican writer born and raised in Florida. He is the author of the memoir High-Risk Homosexual, winner of the American Book Award and the Lambda Literary Award. His latest book, Alligator Tears: A memoir-in-essays, was called "triumphant, dazzling, and unfailingly stylish" by Publisher's Weekly.
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Paulette Perhach (Moderator)
Essayist and Writing Coach
Paulette Perhach’s work has appeared inThe New York Times, Vox, Elle, The Washington Post, Slate, Cosmopolitan, Glamour, Marie Claire, and Yoga Journal. She’s the author of two multi-million-reader viral essays.
Her book, Welcome to the Writer's Life, was selected as one of Poets & Writers' Best Books for Writers.
Topics We'll Explore
How personal essays can bridge ideological divides and foster empathy
Strategies for writing authentically about difficult social issues
Ways that personal narratives have historically influenced policy and public opinion
Why the ACLU?
The American Civil Liberties Union has been defending the rights that bind us together as a society for over 100 years. From protecting free speech to advancing equality, their work embodies the belief that individual stories and collective action can transform society. Your attendance directly supports their ongoing efforts to protect civil liberties for all.
Event Details
The panel discussion will last approximately 60 minutes, including time for audience Q&A. Attendees will have the opportunity to submit questions in advance or during the event.
When: Wednesday, April 9 at 6:30 EST/3:30 PST
Where: Zoom
A replay will be sent out for those who can’t make it live!
