What does it mean to be poor in the U.S. and Britain? For decades the primary narrative about poverty in both countries is that it has been caused by personal flaws or 'bad life decisions' rather than policy choices or economic inequality. This misleading account has become deeply embedded in the public consciousness with serious ramifications for how financially vulnerable people are seen, spoken about and treated.
Drawing on a two-year multi-platform initiative, this book by award-winning journalist and author Mary O'Hara, asks how we can overturn this fundamentally pernicious portrayal once for all. Crucially, she turns to the real experts to try to find answers - the people who live it.
The Shame Game goes right to the heart of why, as cultures, we blame the poorest for their misfortune, and documents how a negative 'story' about the causes and consequences of poverty has become so embedded in the public consciousness.
Join us in the 2nd floor Art Department where Mary O'Hara will discuss her new book with comedian Maeve Higgins!
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Earlier Event: March 12
Ellie Harrison and Mary O’Hara, Toxic Inequalities in Glasgow & Beyond – Glasgow
Later Event: March 23
Ongoing Available Presentation by the author about The Shame Game