Human Libraries concept ‘books’ students for social change

We all know the saying ‘don’t judge a book by its cover’.

A Gold Coast university is taking the phrase to a new level of awareness via a unique social experiment to challenge prejudice and social stigma.

At Griffith University, the Griffith Library has brought together a group of people, each with their own social ‘label’, to be ‘borrowed’ as human library books.

Event organiser Tara Anderson said the Human Libraries concept was a worldwide movement for social change.

“It is designed to connect people from different walks of life to break down social barriers and challenge prejudice and stereotypes through conversation,” said Ms Anderson.

“People are able to ‘borrow and read’ a person instead of a book. The human books then share personal stories about living with discrimination and prejudice.”

Stories include accounts of prejudice against culture, career choice, physical appearance, sexuality and mental health issues.

Hijabi Muslim and Gold Coast student Jazmina said her participation in the Human Library was freeing.

“I was able to say things to people that I’ve never said before. It gave me a chance to articulate what I’ve been thinking my whole life,” she said.

“It was great to see everyone connecting with each other, sharing their different life stories and social and cultural backgrounds.

“It just shows that by being open and respectful, asking questions and sharing experiences, we can create a better and more understanding world.”

Reena, an international student advocate, said she came alone to Australia to study because she did not have the opportunity in India.

“Every person has their own struggles and stories bringing them to where they are right now,” she said.

Griffith staff member Ben said his choice to cover himself with tattoos changed the way people treated him.

“The whole notion that tough guys have tattoos and bad guys have tattoos, that sticks. But I am neither of those things,” he said.

“I got my first tattoo at 19, a little one on my calf, and never really stopped. As time went on, I ran out of hidden space and started getting tattoos on my forearms. For the first five or so years of my professional life, I had to wear long sleeve shirts.

“It’s funny as these days I am no longer considered to be heavily tattooed.”

Griffith Library has run two successful Human Library events, the most recent in March this year. Ms Anderson said the concept exemplifies the message that at Griffith, everyone belongs.

“We value diversity at Griffith and we want our campuses to be safe for people from all walks of life.”