On the 1 May 2021, a group of people met at the Queen Victoria Women’s Centre to discuss these questions. Round table conversations were hosted by women from across the arts, community and health sectors.

The Stimulus for conversation:
What have we learned from lockdown? In 2020, many people took advantage of digital attendance for concerts, talks, speeches, and newsworthy events. Work and meetings became much more convenient without a commute. However, the digital divide also widened – inequalities in access to technology and internet resulted in isolation for those whose lives were contingent on gatherings. It also meant that people who create live experiences were cut off from audiences and their livelihoods. How can live/in person events incorporate digital participation by those who are unable to attend? How can we preserve the bonds of gathering in person while reducing exclusion of those unable to attend due to limited mobility, distance or other capabilities? In exploring the ties of language, culture and celebrations, how does art bridge institutional gaps, offer relief in times of trauma and provide a place for passionate discussions and imagining a more equitable world?

Discussion Facilitators : Mandy Nicholson, Wurunjeri, artist Claire G Coleman, Noogar, writer Alisa Pedrana, epidemiologist Burnett Institute   Elizabeth Reed, artist Merren Ricketson, arts worker and educator Urvi Majumdar, producer and comediaN Veronica Pardo, CEO of Multicultural Arts Victoria Anna Barnes, writer Stella Wiedemeyer, climate activist 

Hosts: Katie Sfetkidis & Jo Porter

Photos by Edwina Hollick