Look Who it Was Random video

Our Cities: Dave Isay & Camilo José Vergara

521 views · Published 23 June 2016 · 1:05:16 · Indexed 20 October 2026

Channel: Chicago Humanities · 2016 · Nonprofits & Activism

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With his deep Chicago roots and his unique vantage on the power of storytelling, StoryCorps Founder Dave Isay (MacArthur 2000) is one of the essential observers of American life. In his latest book, "Callings: The Purpose and Passion of Work", Isay presents unforgettable stories—from the barrios of Texas to Chicago’s South Side—of people doing what they love and finding inspiration in unexpected places that transform a vocation into a calling. Their shared sense of passion, honor, and commitment brings deeper meaning and satisfaction to every aspect of their lives. He is joined by Chilean-born photographer and documentarian Camilo José Vergara (MacArthur 2002) who, for four decades, has been documenting urban change and the desperate challenges it poses for our most vulnerable citizens. Detroit, New York, Los Angeles, Chicago—the entire map of our post-industrial landscapes has been the focus of Vergara’s steady and compassionate gaze. Author of Unexpected Chicagoland, Vergara will discuss his latest work Tracking Time.

We are proud to present Our Cities in collaboration with the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation in honor of the 35th anniversary of the MacArthur Fellows Program, which recognizes exceptionally creative people who inspire us.

This program was filmed on May 15, 2016, as part of Our Cities: a day-long conversation and celebration. 

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