Let’s CELLebrate Henrietta Lacks

We invite you to an exclusive conversation about Henrietta Lacks, her legacy and her recognition in media and art. Meet the descendants of Henrietta Lacks during the conversation. The event is moderated by Ericka Bahner-Seifried.

In 1951, Henrietta Lacks was diagnosed with cancer. During her treatment, a tumour sample was taken from her without her knowledge. These cells, known today as the HeLa line, led to a breakthrough in scientific research and formed the basis for major medical successes over the past 70 years. The cells have contributed to remarkable advances such as the development of the polio vaccine and the COVID-19 vaccine, and medicines to treat cancer, HIV/AIDS and more.

The advances made possible by Henrietta Lacks's cells, and the associated financial gains, were unknown to her family for more than twenty years.

70 years after the cells were taken, members of the Lacks family travel to Europe to tell Henrietta Lacks's story and draw attention to the medical legacy.

Please note that the moderated conversation will take place under the 2G rule. Specifically:

• Participants are obliged to stay away from the event if they show signs of illness
• Presentation of proof of coronavirus vaccination or recovery and a photo ID
• Registration via the organiser's contact form
• Every participant must wear a medical mask when moving around the building
• Hands must be disinfected when entering the building
• A safety distance of 1.5 m must be kept in the movement areas of the building

Due to coronavirus restrictions, the number of seats is limited. Registration by 6 October 2021 via info@amerikazentrum.org with the subject “HeLa” and the following information: surname, first name, address and phone number. The event will be held in English. It is a cooperation of the Amerikazentrum Hamburg, DAZ Stuttgart, DAI Sachsen, HELA100.org, IRIS and PublicHealthGoals. Kindly supported by the U.S. Embassy Berlin, U.S. Consulate General Hamburg, the Federal Foreign Office and the Hamburg Senate Chancellery.

*Please note that photos will be taken during the event, which we may publish on our website and social media channels.