Breakout Session – Identity 1: Languages, Identity & Belonging

Synopsis

This breakout group examines how languages shape our perceptions of self and other, and our understanding of identities. Identity and language are key in building one’s sense of belonging, especially for minority groups. This breakout group explores how the limits in languages, the evolution of vocabulary and use of colloquialism affect the way we see ourselves and build our sense of belonging, and how we differentiate ourselves from others. Attention is given to the lived experience of communities and minority language groups.

Visual Summary

Speakers

Professor Ghil’ad Zuckermann
Professor of Linguistics & Endangered Languages, University of Adelaide

Professor Ghil‘ad Zuckermann (DPhil Oxford; PhD Cambridge, titular; MA Tel Aviv, summa cum laude) is Chair of Linguistics and Endangered Languages at the University of Adelaide, Australia. Since the beginning of 2017 he has been the President of the Australian Association for Jewish Studies.

Reverend Terry Kee
President of Inter-Religious Organisation

Reverend Terry Kee was Bishop of the Lutheran Church in Singapore, President of the National Council of Churches from 2012-2014 and 2018-2020, a council Member of Inter Religious Organisation since 2012 and a Missionary to Thailand from 1996-2005.

Moderator

Associate Professor Catherine Gomes
Associate Professor of Culture and Communication, School of Media and Communication, RMIT University, Australia

Associate Professor Catherine Gomes is internationally renowned for her research on the lived experiences of international students, their digital engagements and their wellbeing. She is editor of the Media, Culture and Communication in Migrant Societies book series with Amsterdam University Press and founding editor of Transitions: Journal of Transient Migration with Intellect Books. Catherine is also a recipient of an Australian Research Council Discovery Early Career Researcher Award Fellowship.