The IRC hosts several different discussion groups out of our office space in Park39. Individuals of all backgrounds, interests, and perspectives are welcome – we just ask that you bring an open mind, thoughtful questions, and common courtesy.
International Book Club
The International Book Club gives participants the opportunity to discuss foreign affairs, global topics, authors’ perspectives, historical events, and their current local relevance in a respectful, engaging setting, through fiction and nonfiction books alike. Convened by IRC Member Parker Heying, the group meets every six to eight weeks to dig into a different author’s work.
Click here to learn more and join the discussion.
International Film Screenings
The IRC hosts film screenings on a semi-regular basis, gathering our community to watch an international film and then discussing it with the help of a subject matter expert. We encourage our members to stay tuned to the IRC events calendar for announcements of new film screenings, or to get in touch with your own ideas for films we should be watching together!
IRC Roundtables
Join a group of community members for respectful, substantive discussion around some of the top international news stories in one of 7 particular world regions. Facilitated by a member or friend of the International Relations Council, the groups meet at Park39 on Monday evenings, and are often joined by special guests such as Fulbright alumni, academics, community leaders from cultural organizations, and more!
From Our Friends:
The IRC has a number of program partners who hold groups designed to bring people together and connect over shared interests! You’re invited to check out some of the examples below, and get in touch with each respective organization to learn more!
Let’s Talk by RISE at the KC Library
This discussion group is focused on conversation practice with other learners and native English speakers (volunteer tutors).
Click here to learn more and join the discussion.
We The Readers by American Public Square
American Public Square is thrilled to launch something new for 2026: a monthly APS Book Club in partnership with our friends at Rainy Day Books, Kansas City’s landmark independent bookstore. Each month, “We The Readers” will gather to read, reflect, and wrestle with ideas that shape civic life, from history and politics to culture, community, and the stories that help us understand one another. The event typically happens on the third Wednesday of every month at 7 PM. Visit American Public Square’s website to learn more.
Conversational Spanish Club at the KC Library
Held at the KC Library’s Irene Ruiz Branch on the website, this is meant as a space for people to practice their Spanish in a casual and low-pressure setting. The group alternates between a ‘lesson’ and social time to practice and get to know our neighbors. Our facilitator matches the topics to the groups interests. We promise, no quizzes! No RSVP required.