Kulkarni Cultural Series presents 'Voices of Peace: World Peace Poetry Night'

MIDDLETOWN, Pa. - The Mukund S. Kulkarni Cultural Series at Penn State Harrisburg will host an evening of reflection, inspiration and unity with Voices of Peace presenting "World Peace Poetry Night: Peace Begins With Us" on Tuesday, Sept. 30, from 6 to 7 p.m. in the Mukund S. Kulkarni Theatre. The event is free and open to the public. Reservations are not required.

Featuring five artists, educators and activists from diverse cultural, ethnic and social backgrounds, Voices of Peace uses the transformative power of poetry to confront the devastating effects of war while amplifying messages of hope, resilience and solidarity.

The ensemble is made up of Ilhan Kucukaydin, Vanessa Codorniu, Cassie Zinkan, Alana Cornish and Janet Bixler - each bringing a distinct voice, lived experience and global perspective to the stage. From poignant verses about loss and survival to rallying calls for justice, the evening's program draws from poems around the world, offering both a mirror to the challenges and a vision of peace to strive toward.

"Poetry has always been a tool for resistance and healing," said Kucukaydin, part of the Voices of Peace ensemble. "We are coming together from different cultural backgrounds and experiences to remind ourselves and others that art has the power to inspire peace, challenge injustice and uplift communities in ways that words alone simply cannot."

About the Mukund S. Kulkarni Cultural Series

The Mukund S. Kulkarni Cultural Series at Penn State Harrisburg brings world-class artists to campus, offering experiences that inspire, connect and unite audiences. With an emphasis on cultural exchange and accessibility, the series celebrates the transformative power of the arts.

The series is made possible thanks to more than $1 million in gifts in honor of former Penn State Harrisburg Chancellor Mukund S. Kulkarni, who retired in June of 2018.