The University of Alberta is proud to present the Pushing the Boundaries series, a virtual speaker event dedicated to showcasing innovative research and thought-provoking ideas. This series aims to push the boundaries of traditional academic discourse and explore new frontiers in the social sciences. In the latest installment of the series, we had the pleasure of hosting Dr. Stephanie R. Toliver, an esteemed scholar and author, who shared her insights on the intersection of endarkened storywork and histofuturism.
Endarkened storywork, a term coined by Dr. Toliver, refers to the process of reclaiming and centering marginalized voices and narratives in research and storytelling. It challenges the dominant Western narrative and seeks to amplify the voices of those who have been historically silenced. Histofuturism, on the other hand, is a concept that explores the possibilities of imagining and creating a future that is rooted in the past and present experiences of marginalized communities.
During her talk, Dr. Toliver delved into the complexities of endarkened storywork and how it can be used as a tool for social change. She emphasized the importance of acknowledging and honoring the stories of marginalized communities, as they hold valuable insights and perspectives that are often overlooked in traditional research methods. By centering these stories, we can challenge dominant narratives and create a more inclusive and accurate understanding of our world.
Dr. Toliver also discussed the concept of histofuturism and its potential to shape a more equitable future. By acknowledging and learning from the past, we can create a more informed and intentional vision for the future. This approach also allows for the inclusion of diverse perspectives and experiences, leading to a more inclusive and just society.
The audience was captivated by Dr. Toliver’s thought-provoking ideas and her passion for social justice. Her talk sparked important discussions on the role of storytelling in research and the power of imagination in shaping our future. Attendees were inspired to incorporate endarkened storywork and histofuturism into their own research and work, and to challenge the status quo in their respective fields.
Dr. Toliver’s work is a testament to the University of Alberta’s commitment to promoting diversity and inclusivity in academia. By hosting events like the Pushing the Boundaries series, the university is creating a platform for marginalized voices to be heard and for innovative ideas to be shared. This series not only showcases cutting-edge research but also encourages critical thinking and pushes the boundaries of traditional academic discourse.
The success of the Pushing the Boundaries series is a testament to the University of Alberta’s dedication to fostering a culture of innovation and inclusivity. By bringing together scholars and thought leaders from diverse backgrounds, the university is creating a space for meaningful dialogue and collaboration. The series has become a platform for showcasing groundbreaking research and ideas, and we look forward to continuing this tradition in the future.
In conclusion, the talk with Dr. Stephanie R. Toliver was a thought-provoking and inspiring event that highlighted the importance of endarkened storywork and histofuturism in shaping a more equitable and inclusive future. The University of Alberta is proud to have hosted such a distinguished scholar and we are grateful for her valuable insights. We hope that this event has sparked important conversations and inspired attendees to push the boundaries in their own work. We look forward to welcoming more innovative thinkers and researchers in the future as we continue to push the boundaries of traditional academic discourse.



