Exploring Citizenship and Belonging

The American Club of Sweden is organizing a significant discussion focused on the concepts of citizenship and belonging in Sweden and the United States. This gathering will feature two esteemed experts: Lars Trägårdh and Andrea Voyer, moderated by Alex Lange.

LOCATION: Scandic Anglais, Humlegårdsgatan 23, Stockholm

DATE: Tuesday, 29 April | 17.30–18.30 (Doors open at 17.15)

ENTRY FEE: Free for American Club of Sweden members | 150 SEK for non-members

Payment for non-members must be made beforehand.

RSVP by: 18.00 on Friday, 25 April

This discussion will delve into the historical and contemporary approaches to citizenship in Sweden and the U.S., examining how these views shape national identities and influence policies and legal standards. The dialogue will scrutinize the impact of cultural norms on migrants’ integration and how concepts of citizenship embody fundamental societal values.

Given the recent political climate, the topic has gained heightened relevance. In the United States, new executive orders are prompting debate on birthright citizenship, while in Sweden, modifications to citizenship laws ignite discussions on identity and the rights of newcomers. These transformations pose vital questions regarding inclusion and the future of democracy in both regions.

This gathering promises to be enriching for anyone interested in civic engagement, historical shifts, or the evolving definitions of identity and belonging. Attendees can enjoy a glass of wine or a non-alcoholic drink afterwards to further engage in discussions.

Featured Speakers:

Lars Trägårdh is a Swedish historian affiliated with Uppsala University. Having lived in the U.S. since 1970, he brings a diverse perspective rooted in transatlantic experience and a commitment to public discourse in Sweden. With a Ph.D. from UC Berkeley and a decade of teaching modern European history at Columbia University, he is also active in public intellectual discussions, focusing on social values and cohesion in Swedish society.

Andrea Voyer serves as a Professor of Sociology at Stockholm University, with a Ph.D. from the University of Wisconsin–Madison. Her research addresses civility, social norms, and belonging, particularly in the context of migration and citizenship. Since relocating to Sweden in 2018, she has engaged in discourse around educational and health inequalities linked to migration and contributed to discussions on social justice.

Event Schedule:

17.15: Doors Open

17.30: Conversation with Lars Trägårdh and Andrea Voyer

18.30: Conclusion Followed by Mingle

19.00: Event Ends