Author Talk: Erased Voices and Unspoken Heritage with Dr Zozan Balci
Join Dr Zozan Balci, award-winning sociolinguist, author, and social justice advocate from UTS, for this Author Talk and interactive discussion. Drawing on her book Erased Voices and Unspoken Heritage, she shares insights from interviews with second-generation migrants and explores deep questions around language, cultural identity, and belonging in multicultural Australia.
This engaging session will invite dialogue on:
- Heritage language and culture in migrant families
- Intergenerational relationships and the meaning of belonging in a multicultural society
- Why young people embrace, reject, or negotiate their heritage—and what’s at stake
Why It Matters to the Multicultural and Youth Sectors
- Amplifying youth voices: This Author Talk highlights the lived experiences of young people navigating multiple cultural and language affiliations.
- Building understanding: It helps community workers, educators, and local government professionals deepen their empathy and capacity to support diverse identities.
- Policy and community relevance: Insights can inform inclusive programs, cultural policies, and educational practices that affirm hybrid identities.
This event is particularly relevant for multicultural young people ,families and communities, as well as those who work with or support them.
When: Wednesday, 1 October, 1:00 – 2:30 pm
Where: Darling Square Library, The Exchange (1 Little Pier Street, Haymarket) – Ideas Space
Cost: Free, registration required (whatson.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au)
Source: City of Sydney
