Writer, activist, and comedian Babatunde Thurston, the Emmy-nominated host and executive producer of the PBS television series “America Outdoors with Baratunde Thurston,” will offer a free, public lecture at UW–Madison’s Shannon Hall on Oct. 5.
The UW Nelson Institute will host Thurston through its Jordahl Public Lands Lecture Series. Thurston is also the creator and host of “How To Citizen with Baratunde,” which Apple named one of its favorite podcasts of 2020, and a founding partner of the new media startup Puck. His comedic memoir, “How To Be Black,” is a New York Times best-seller.
“We’re excited to host Baratunde Thurston because he brings a fresh, approachable perspective that incorporates humor as he connects people and the land,” says Emily Reynolds, the Nelson Institute’s director of community engagement and alumni relations, in a statement. “Through his PBS show, Baratunde demonstrates the importance of conservation and stewardship, which very much defined Bud Jordahl’s conservation career.”
Thurston will speak at the Wisconsin Union Theater’s Shannon Hall on Thursday, Oct. 5, 7–8 p.m. The event is free to attend, but registration is required as seats are limited.
