On the evening of January 29, at The University Club, College of Communication and Information Sciences (C&IS) faculty, students and community members gathered to celebrate the publication of Searching for Solidarity: Revolutionary Dreams and Radical Social Movements, a new book by Communication Studies assistant professor Noor Ghazal Aswad, Ph.D. The event marked more than a book launch; it created space for storytelling and connection.
The evening began with opening remarks from two of Aswad’s colleagues: Andrew Billings, Ph.D., and Heather Hayes, Ph.D. Both spoke on Aswad’s place within the C&IS, as well as the labor of love that shaped her book.
“Noor brings to everything she does, a depth of spirit and a warmth to the rigor of her ideas that makes people want to be better scholars,” said Hayes. “Searching for Solidarity: Revolutionary Dreams, and Radical Social Movements is a book that matches her spirit.”
The event then shifted into a panel, first starting with Noor discussing how and why this book came about. Rather than focusing on specific outcomes, Searching for Solidarity centers experiences, considering the stories and messages from artists, activists, organizers and everyday individuals whose creativity and courage help sustain collective hope.
Simply put, Aswad described Searching for Solidarity as a book about attention.
Aswad shared that her work is informed by years of scholarly research as well as personal engagement with Syrian communities. She emphasized the importance of listening closely to lived experiences and resisting simplified narratives, noting that solidarity requires patience, humility, and a willingness to remain present even when stories are complex or uncomfortable.
Two honored guests were invited to speak at the panel. Dr Lisa Flores, Weiss Chair of the Humanities at The Pennsylvania State University, and Dr. Karma Chavez, Mexican American & Latina/o Studies Chair at the University of Texas at Austin, alongside Aswad explored the book’s contributions to various topics including how communication and information can continue to evolve globally.
As the event began to wind down, C&IS Dean Brian Butler, Ph.D. connected the themes of the evening to the broader mission of C&IS and how Aswad’s work showcases the type of leadership and world shaping the college strives to prepare students for.
“We talk about the idea that C&IS exists to drive positive change by unleashing the power of communication and information to make the world a better place for everyone,” said Butler. “And I cannot think of a better example of what that means.”
Throughout the event, speakers returned to the importance of listening carefully, thinking critically and remaining open to perspectives that challenge and expand our understanding.
For students in attendance, the discussion offered a glimpse into how research, in combination with real world experiences, can extend beyond the classroom. For colleagues and guests, it was a reminder of the role universities play in fostering dialogue that is both rigorous but also incredibly human.
As attendees filtered out at the close of the evening, the sense of reflection lingered. Searching for Solidarity may have been the reason for gathering, but the event underscored the importance of building through communication and community.
To purchase Searching for Solidarity, click here
