The first installment of a local college’s lecture series on diversity is next week.

Organized by Grand Rapids Community College’s Bob and Aleicia Woodrick Center for Equity and Inclusion, the Diversity Lecture Series is intended to “provide insight into other perspectives and encourage civil debate and cultural understanding.”

All lectures begin at 7 p.m. at Fountain Street Church in downtown Grand Rapids, at 24 Fountain St. NE.

All lectures are free and open to the public.

Book signings will follow the lectures of Navarro and Valenti.

Presentations are ASL interpreted.

GRCC Diversity Lecture Series

Oct. 24

Ana Navarro, a Republican strategist and political analyst, will discuss political outlook. Navarro has worked for CNN, CNN en Español, Telemundo, ABC News, the U.N. Human Rights Commission and has represented clients on federal issues, such as immigration, trade and Central American policy.

Feb. 13

Bakari Sellers, a lawyer and activist, will discuss education, civil rights and equality. At age 22, Sellers defeated a 26-year incumbent in 2006 and became the youngest member of the South Carolina Legislature. He now serves on the American Israeli Public Affairs Committee’s National Council.

March 20

Jessica Valenti, an author and journalist, will discuss today’s feminism. Valenti is a New York Times best-selling author of five books and a columnist for The Guardian.