Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts (MCLA) proudly announces Tamar Sarai as the 2024 Hardman Journalist in Residence. A beacon of modern journalism, Sarai brings a refreshing perspective to storytelling, emphasizing the power of narratives in addressing pressing social issues. Her upcoming lecture, scheduled for Monday, April 8th at 6 p.m. in the Feigenbaum Center for Science and Innovation Atrium, promises to be an enlightening exploration of her journalistic journey and the impact of storytelling in today’s society.

As a Features Writer at Prism, a non-profit media outlet dedicated to amplifying the voices of marginalized communities, Sarai shines a light on the experiences of those directly affected by systemic injustices. With a focus on race, culture, and the criminal legal system, her work delves into the nuanced realities faced by Black women and girls within these structures. Through her writing, Sarai not only informs but also advocates for change, highlighting the need for social reform and equity.

Professor Michael Birch of MCLA acknowledges Sarai’s transformative approach to journalism, stating, “Her writing will offer new topics and focus for their learning, as will her emphasis on the power and value of good writing in the service of exceptional storytelling. This will be an excellent learning opportunity for our students.” Indeed, Sarai’s lecture promises to inspire and empower aspiring journalists, providing valuable insights into the craft and its potential for social impact.

Sarai’s journey to becoming a respected journalist is as inspiring as her work itself. In 2016, she graduated from Wellesley College with degrees in Sociology and African American Studies, embarking on a path that initially did not include journalism. It was not until her senior year of college, during a public writing class, that she discovered her passion for shaping stories and writing for a public audience. Determined to pursue her newfound passion, Sarai freelanced and attended writing workshops to gain the experience she missed out on as a student journalist.

Her commitment to social justice led her to work in non-profit organizations focusing on racial justice issues, particularly mass incarceration and policing. In 2018, Sarai pursued a master’s program in journalism at Columbia University, where she honed her skills in various forms of journalism, including audio and documentary, alongside mastering different writing styles. After graduating, she joined Prism, a non-profit media outlet dedicated to highlighting the voices of marginalized communities, where she currently serves as a features writer.

At Prism, Sarai’s focus on the criminal legal system, particularly its impact on Black women and girls, has garnered widespread acclaim. Her dedication to long-form storytelling and her coverage of race and culture have expanded the boundaries of journalism, shining a light on pressing social issues with depth and nuance.

For her lecture at MCLA, Sarai will delve into the concept of movement journalism, a practice that seeks to create a different relationship with the communities it covers. Drawing from her own experiences and the work of fellow movement journalists, Sarai will explore various social justice issues and initiatives across the country, providing insight into the history and evolution of movement journalism.

As we eagerly anticipate Tamar Sarai’s lecture, let us embrace this opportunity to engage with her insights and reflect on the transformative potential of storytelling in our own lives and communities. Her visit to MCLA serves as a reminder of the importance of amplifying marginalized voices and advancing social justice through the power of narrative. Join us as we welcome Tamar Sarai to our campus and embark on a journey of exploration, discovery, and empowerment through the art of storytelling.

In welcoming Tamar Sarai as the 2024 Hardman Journalist in Residence, MCLA reaffirms its commitment to fostering a culture of critical inquiry and social responsibility. Sarai’s lecture promises to be a transformative experience for students and community members alike, offering a glimpse into the power of storytelling to effect positive change in our world.

The Hardman Lecture Series, made possible through the generosity of the Hardman Family Endowment, continues to enrich the academic and cultural landscape of MCLA, providing platforms for engaging discussions with leading journalists of our time. Tamar Sarai’s presence as this year’s resident journalist is a testament to the series’ ongoing commitment to excellence in journalism and storytelling.

Join us as we welcome Tamar Sarai to MCLA and embark on a journey of exploration, discovery, and empowerment through the art of storytelling.