Haunting Humanities receives Humanities Kansas Grant

LAWRENCE – Humanities Kansas recently awarded $5,000 to the Hall Center for the Humanities at the University of Kansas in support of “Haunting Humanities: Disciplines in the Dark,” a free event featuring immersive presentations featuring haunting stories and legends. “Haunting Humanities,” a science fair for the humanities with a Halloween twist, ensures that people of all ages can explore the insights that the study of history, literature, language and culture can bring to everyday life.

The event will take place from 5:30 to 9 p.m. Oct. 23 at Abe & Jake's Landing, 800 E. Sixth St.

This will be the second time “Haunting Humanities” has brought its unique brand of spine-tingling scholarship to the Lawrence public in partnership with Humanities Kansas. Last year, “Haunting Humanities” brought together more than 14 regional scholars and 12 community organizations to share scary tales, bone-chilling poetry and spooky activities. The event included performances, mask-making, face paint, local food vendors, a cash bar and more.

“Our goal at Humanities Kansas is to support humanities programs that engage the public in meaningful ways,” said Julie Mulvihill, Humanities Kansas executive director. “‘Haunting Humanities’ is a unique project that balances thought-provoking discussions and fun Halloween-themed activities to appeal to all ages.”

“We’re so honored to have the support of our state humanities council,” said Sarah Bishop, project director. “It’s great to have a statewide organization that understands that humanities scholarship doesn’t always have to be about libraries and lecture halls — it can be wicked fun, too.”

“We really appreciate this partnership with Humanities Kansas, sharing as we do a deep commitment to making visible across the state why the humanities matter and the way in which the humanities can bring joy and laughter into our lives,” said Richard Godbeer, director of the Hall Center for the Humanities. “Last year’s Haunting Humanities event attracted a huge crowd, and we hope even more people will be there this fall. Everyone is welcome!”

Learn more at humanitieskansas.org.