2025 Annual Institute Social: Good Times in Dark Times

These may be dark times but, as Baruch Spinoza once argued, “nothing but grim and gloomy superstition forbids enjoyment. Why is it less fitting to drive away melancholy than to dissipate hunger or thirst?” In this spirit, BISR warmly invites you to our 2025 Annual Institute Social—taking place Saturday, June 7th, at Littlefield Performance + Art Space—for an evening of delicious food, open bar, music, dancing, and each other. But this Social is indeed different from all other Socials. This year, in place of our usual lightning lectures, there will be a wide-ranging panel discussion, with BISR faculty Sophie Lewis, Rafael Khachaturian, and Ajay Singh Chaudhary, addressing the political and social predicament into which all of us—individually, institutionally, and as a community—have been plunged. And, for maximal accessibility, the panel discussion will livestream to BISR’s Facebook, YouTube, and Twitter pages. Drink, dance, and discourse—all driving away at least some portion of our melancholy (and certainly at least some of our hunger and thirst!) in dark times. 

But this is not the only way in which the 2025 Annual Social is different. It’s different in that the program portion of the evening will be recorded and livestreamed so that everyone near-or-far can participate, without gatekeeping or paywalls. At a time when pressure to conform to ideals of nationalism and exclusivity are omnipresent, BISR is proud to embrace every member of our community, from every corner of the country and the world. For the first time, tickets are pay-what-you-can so that this kind of programming, this kind of community spirit, is available for everyone in the NYC metropolitan area. The suggested rate of $50 is just under the breakeven cost per capita of the event. If you have to give less, do so. No price is too low—or too high: your presence and support is vital. If you are someone who would normally buy tickets at $100, $1,000, or even $10,000, please consider not only matching but increasing your support. Just as so many of us rely on BISR for exactly this kind of programming, BISR relies on—and trusts—you to give what you can. Your support not only makes the 2025 Annual Social possible, it is crucial at a time when BISR institutionally faces new political and (related) fiscal threats. 

In a moment of danger, Walter Benjamin once wrote, a memory may “flash up,” that can spark the flames of hope. This year, that memory need not be some historical event but simply all of us remembering that we’re not alone, that we are here for each other, and that even if there is crisis and serious discussion, there’s also celebration. It’s still a party, a good one, and you’re all invited.

BISR accepts employer matching for all giving, including Institute Social ticket purchases. Please consider inquiring if employer matching is available to you. A portion of tickets costing $75 or more are tax deductible. 

If you are experiencing difficulties entering your card at checkout, please feel free to call 718-422-7767 or email info@thebrooklyninstitute.com for assistance.

Event Schedule

Saturday, 6:00-10:00pm ET
June 07, 2025

Suggested Price: $50

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