Chaucer’s Books will host Jennifer Chassman Browne for a book talk and signing of “See Us, Know Us: Profiles of Disability,” 6 p.m. Monday, Oct. 26 at 3321 State St., Santa Barbara.
As part of the event, from 5:30-7:30 p.m., 10% of all in-store sales will be donated to Access Central Coast.
“The book introduces the readers to a diverse group of people who share their experiences in honest and vulnerable ways that lead the reader to carry these stories out into the world, thinking about and retelling them,” Chaucer’s said.
Each profile consists of a portrait, a narrative biography, an original poem, and a poem origin story, which is a narrative summary of the conversation that led to the poem.
“Upon stepping into these stories, readers will be captivated and feel connected,” Chassman Browne said.
“As well, they will learn so much about the lives, joys, and challenges of those living with disabilities, and will leave with a desire to create a world that is more accepting and inclusive; a world in which all feel that they belong.
Chassman Browne has been an educator for some 25 years, and has experience working with students ranging from third grade through the university level. Most of her work has been as an English and creative writing teacher, and as a school leader.
Chassman Browne has lived with rheumatoid arthritis since she was six years old, and uses her lived experience in her work as a disability advocate and educator.
Five years ago, she founded New Ground Educational Consulting. Her focus has been to develop and present workshops related to inclusion and belonging.
Chassman Browne has been a featured guest on “Pushing Limits,” one of the only public radio shows focused on disability.
Most recently, she was the keynote speaker for the Pacific ADA Center’s annual conference where she presented a session called Beginning with Belonging; Reimagining the ADA.
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