Local Author Talk: "Who Am I? Identity in the Age of Consumer DNA Testing"

Phoenixville Public Library will host a virtual talk by local authors Bessie Lawton and Anita Foeman on their book, Who Am I? Identity in the Age of Consumer DNA Testing, on Monday, January 31 at 7:00 PM.

Have you ever wondered about the origins of your ancestors? Are you curious about your ethnicity or race? Have you heard or told stories about your family’s past? Would you like to know the science that can help to uncover some of these mysteries?  In Who Am I? Identity in the Age of Consumer DNA Testing, West Chester University communication professors Lawton and Foeman present readers with the most comprehensive and cutting-edge research on DNA and identity construction. They investigate the modern trend of individuals using direct-to-consumer DNA test results to explore and negotiate their personal and social identities. Their book explores the numerous misconceptions that exist with regard to race, culture, and ethnicity, and how DNA kits have changed the ways in which race and ethnicity are understood and acted upon in our everyday lives.  Lawton and Foeman are helping to facilitate conversations on race using DNA testing that is part of West Chester University’s DNA Discussion Project.

This event is free and open to the public and will be held online via Zoom.  Registration is required at https://ccls.libcal.com/calendar/Phoenixville/who-am-i or by calling 610-933-3013 x132.  Email mp****@cc**.org for more information or assistance with using Zoom.