Where and why does leftist political solidarity run up against its limits? When empathy runs dry in the face of constant horrors, where understanding of context and history is lacking, where coalitions fracture, and when it seems impossible to effect real change, this talk will examine some recent object lessons in the limits of solidarity and explore grief as a possible alternative space or form of collective feeling, thinking, and being in common.  

This lecture is the keynote presentation for the symposium Aesthetics of Solidarity. Taking place April 9–12, 2025, Aesthetics of Solidarity explores solidarity and Arab American art histories through presentations by artists, art historians, and scholars from around the world.