Discover Staten Island’s rich cultural heritage at the Jacques Marchais Museum of Tibetan Art’s Voices of Diaspora Program, a yearlong celebration of diaspora communities including Tibetan and African American stories. Starting November 3rd, this program highlights vibrant cultural traditions and untold histories..Discover Staten Island’s rich cultural heritage at the Jacques Marchais Museum of Tibetan Art’s Voices of Diaspora Program, a yearlong celebration of diaspora communities including Tibetan and African American stories. Starting November 3rd, this program highlights vibrant cultural traditions and untold histories.

Explore Staten Island’s Voices of Diaspora Program at the Jacques Marchais Museum of Tibetan Art

Looking for meaningful cultural events in Staten Island? The Voices of Diaspora Program at the Jacques Marchais Museum of Tibetan Art is the perfect way to explore the borough’s rich cultural heritage. This yearlong initiative, running from November 2024 to May 2025, will shine a light on five global communities affected by diaspora, highlighting their unique histories and traditions.

The program kicks off with a Day of Wisdom and Transformation on Sunday, November 3rd, 2024, from 11:30 AM to 3:30 PM. Attendees will witness The Seven Offerings for the Prosperity of the Land Ceremony—a Tibetan tradition that promotes peace and prosperity. You’ll also take part in the ceremonial hanging of prayer flags, believed to purify the environment and bring harmony.

In addition to the ceremonies, you’ll hear from Alice Kandell and Tashi Chodron, who will share the inspiring story of the 1990s Tibetan Resettlement Project, which helped 1,000 Tibetans relocate to the U.S. This event is a must-see for anyone interested in Tibetan culture and the broader experience of diaspora communities.

Mark your calendar for additional Voices of Diaspora events, including:

  • Saturday, November 9th – A talk and book signing by Dr. Zinga Fraser on the legacy of Shirley Chisholm, a trailblazing politician and voice for democracy. Learn more about Shirley Chisholm’s legacy and how she reshaped U.S. politics.
  • Friday, November 15th – An evening of live jazz at Christ Church Parish Hall, featuring Bim Strasberg, Larry Lugar, and Jeanine Otis. Don’t miss this night of soulful music—tickets are just $20. You can learn more about Jeanine Otis and her contributions to Staten Island’s music scene here.
  • Sunday, November 24thUnsilenced Histories, an enlightening presentation on Staten Island’s hidden African American history, which dates back to the 17th century. For more on Staten Island’s African American legacy, check out Historic Richmond Town’s African American stories.

The Voices of Diaspora Program offers Staten Islanders an opportunity to celebrate cultural diversity, connect with untold stories, and experience the borough’s rich multicultural heritage.

For more details and to reserve your spot, visit The Voices of Diaspora Program Event Page.


Why Attend?

Staten Island is home to a wealth of cultural stories, many of which remain untold. Through this exciting new program, the Jacques Marchais Museum of Tibetan Art offers a unique chance to explore these narratives, celebrate diversity, and engage with the dynamic histories that have shaped both local and global communities. Whether you’re passionate about history, culture, or just looking for something new to experience on Staten Island, the Voices of Diaspora program has something for everyone.

Join us for this enriching series of events and explore the vibrant stories that make Staten Island a cultural hub.

For other local cultural events, visit Staten Island NYC Living’s event calendar.