Events

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The Sidewalk is Political: Rethinking Democracy Through Everyday Spaces
The Sidewalk Is Political: Rethinking Democracy Through Everyday Spaces

Wednesday, October 14, 2026

The Sidewalk is Political: Rethinking Democracy Through Everyday Spaces

What can an ordinary sidewalk tell us about the way we govern, design, and share our communities? Join the hybrid event featuring Michael Pollack, author of “Sidewalk Nation,” as he examines the overlooked infrastructure that shapes everyday life.

Virtual (Zoom)

11:00 a.m. EST

London’s Public Safety Challenge: Building Trust and Belonging
Kimberlyn Leary and Kaya Comer-Schwartz

Tuesday, October 20, 2026

London’s Public Safety Challenge: Building Trust and Belonging

Have lunch and hear from Kaya Comer-Schwartz, London’s Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime in conversation with Kimberlyn Leary of HKS, HMS, and HSPH about the leadership and collaboration required to advance public safety in one of the world’s largest and most diverse cities.

Bloomberg Center for Cities, Taubman Third Floor, Harvard Kennedy School

12:00 p.m. EST 

Mega-events and Cities: Opportunities, Risks, and Lasting Impact
people celebrating in the city with confetti and flags

Wednesday, October 28, 2026

Mega-events and Cities: Opportunities, Risks, and Lasting Impact

From the FIFA World Cup and Olympic Games to major climate summits and global convenings, cities increasingly serve as stages for some of the world's most visible and consequential events. Have lunch and join mayors who have planned and hosted major international events as they discuss their experiences with hosting events like these with Harvard Kennedy School faculty.  

Bloomberg Center for Cities, Taubman Third Floor, Harvard Kennedy School

12:00 p.m. EST

Linda Hill on Genius at Scale: Leadership for an Era of Change

Thursday, October 29, 2026

Linda Hill on Genius at Scale: Leadership for an Era of Change

Join the Bloomberg Center for Cities for lunch and a conversation with Linda Hill, renowned leadership scholar, Harvard Business School professor, and author of "Genius at Scale." Drawing on decades of research and work with organizations around the world, Hill will explore how leaders can unlock collective intelligence and build cultures where innovation can flourish.  

Bloomberg Center for Cities, Taubman Third Floor, Harvard Kennedy School

12:00 p.m. EST 

Calling Gilgamesh: A Reading and Conversation on Humanity, Cities and the Future

Monday, November 2, 2026

Calling Gilgamesh: A Reading and Conversation on Humanity, Cities and the Future

Calling Gilgamesh, a new play by Gloria Benedikt, brings together two writers separated by more than four thousand years to explore some of humanity's most enduring questions. Join us for a scenic reading—the first public presentation of the play—followed by a discussion exploring themes that resonate across disciplines, including urbanization, environmental change, democracy, technology, and the future of human civilization.

Bloomberg Center for Cities, Taubman Third Floor, Harvard Kennedy School

4:00 p.m. EST

Student Study Group: AI and the Future of Entrepreneurial Opportunity: Implications for Cities and Regions
Natalie Cofield

Sept. 23, Oct. 7, & Nov. 4, 2026

Student Study Group: AI and the Future of Entrepreneurial Opportunity: Implications for Cities and Regions

This student study group will examine how AI is reshaping entrepreneurial opportunity across cities and regions, with a focus on labor demand, firm competitiveness, small business access, and how local governments can navigate economic transition.

Bloomberg Center for Cities, Taubman Third Floor, Harvard Kennedy School

4:30-6:00 p.m. EST

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