Dr. Aimee Israel-Pelletier

Historians, political scientists, sociologists, and politicians have scrutinized various aspects of immigration, a subject dear to me because I am the product of immigration and because I believe the movement of people across the globe is to be celebrated and not feared. Other disciplines, like philosophy, literature, poetry, literary and cultural studies have also contributed in serious ways to the subject. The term used in these fields is not immigration but “hospitality” the act of extending or, inhospitality, of withholding one’s welcome. In 1991, Edmond Jabès, a French writer born in Egypt, like me, wrote a profoundly moving book entitled “Le Livre de l’hospitalité” (The Book of Hospitality). It is written in a unique style made up of aphorisms, prose poetry, dialogues, and short stories. It evokes hospitality in its ethical and political dimensions. It is a wise and touching book that stimulates contemplation. I go back to it often. It brings me deep satisfaction.