John Sayles has consistently incorporated themes of social injustice into his narratives, underscoring the difficulties and challenges individuals face daily. This panel of scholars examines how over the course of his firm career, Sayles created a full tapestry of the American experience in a way that is true to his vision of "the community as hero."

Panelists include Maria Eugenia Cotera, U-M Associate Professor of American Culture, Latina/o Studies and Women's Studies;
Colin Gunckel, U-M Assistant Professor of American Culture, Latina/o Studies and Screen Arts & Cultures;
Heidi Kenaga, Wayne State University Instructor;
Dylan Miner, Michigan State University Associate Professor of Transcultural Studies; and
Jack Ryan, Gettysburg College Vice Provost and Associate Professor of English.

The John Sayles Symposium is sponsored by the University of Michigan Department of Screen Arts & Cultures, University of Michigan Library, the Michigan Theater, and Cinetopia International Film Festival.