Uncover History, Solve a Mystery, Follow the Money
By Sujata Thomas
Let’s be honest — there’s only so much streaming we can take before our brains start to crave something a little more … sustaining.
That’s where CHILL at IPH comes in. It’s a collaboration between UNC Charlotte and the Independent Picture House (aka Charlotte’s only indie theater), designed for curious people who want to learn something new and beat the heat. No tests, no textbooks — just great conversations, thoughtful instructors and the occasional popcorn break.
This summer’s final CHILL workshops dive into three very different worlds: Charlotte’s place in civil rights history, a real-life detective hunt sparked by a forgotten memoir and a deep but accessible look at how capitalism shapes our lives.
Charlotte — A Center of the Civil Rights Movement
Tuesday/Thursday, July 8, 10, 15, 17 | 10 am–12 pm
Instructor: Dr. Willie Griffin
Think the civil rights movement happened somewhere else? Think again. Charlotte played a pivotal role in shaping national change — from the Swann v. Charlotte-Mecklenburg Board of Education Supreme Court decision on school desegregation to decades of grassroots activism led by community leaders whose stories are too often left out of textbooks.
Taught by Dr. Willie Griffin, former historian at the Levine Museum of the New South, this workshop sheds light on the movements, communities and voices that made Charlotte a key player in the fight for justice. Whether you’re a lifelong resident or new to the city, you’ll walk away with a deeper understanding of the history beneath our feet.
Mystery Memoir from Germany: A Historical Detective Journey
Tuesday/Thursday, July 22, 25, 29, 31 | 10 am–12 pm
Instructors: Dr. Anabel Aliaga-Buchenau and Jules Geaney-Moore
A forgotten memoir discovered at a Detroit estate sale sparked a years-long search that stretched across archives in the U.S. and Europe. With limited clues and no known author, the research team set out to understand the context, meaning and history behind the document — and the life it hinted at.
In this workshop, two members of a three-person research team share how they approached this real-life historical puzzle, from translation, interviews and archival outreach to the surprising discoveries along the way. If you’re curious about how history gets uncovered, this one’s for you.
Capitalism in Action
Tuesday/Thursday, Aug. 5, 7, 12, 14 | 10 am–12 pm
Instructor: Dr. Jurgen Buchenau
From luxury space yachts to rent strikes and soaring grocery bills, capitalism is everywhere in today’s headlines — but what exactly is it, and how did we get here?
This timely, engaging course traces the evolution of capitalism from its early beginnings to the digital and financial systems shaping our world today. Dr. Jurgen Buchenau, a global historian with deep expertise in economic and political systems, unpacks how capitalism has grown, adapted and backfired across centuries.
Whether you’re trying to make sense of political debates, corporate power or your own place in the economy, this workshop offers a smart, accessible foundation for thinking critically about the system we live in — and what might come next.
Why CHILL?
Because it’s rare to find a place where you can be smart and relaxed at the same time (and meet cool people!) Each workshop is just four sessions long, taught by award-winning faculty from UNC Charlotte. No prior knowledge required. Just bring your curiosity and maybe a sweater (the AC’s strong).
Cost: $150 per session
Perks: Certificate of Completion, and if you buy three workshops, you will get a fourth free in 2025/26
Location: Independent Picture House
Ready to CHILL?
Spots are filling up. Sign up now and treat your brain to something better than another rewatch.