2012-2013

News Release

REF NO.: 131

SUBJECT: PSA: Memorial University taking a stand against racism

DATE: March 12, 2013

To mark the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, Memorial University’s Aboriginal Resource Office (ARO) is partnering with several on- and off-campus groups to present United We Stand on Thursday, March 21.
Designed to highlight cultural diversity and awareness, United We Stand will take place on the third floor of the University Centre from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and will feature a variety of presentations and activities from the Memorial community and beyond.
Dr. Lisa Rankin of the Department of Archaeology will introduce a screening of her film The People of NunatuKavut; John Nick Jeddore will discuss the Mi'kmaq of Taqamkuk; Memorial students Kaif Khan and Farah Hamodat will speak about Islam and the hijab; and Jack Penashue will speak on the Innu of Nitassinan. The event will also feature a performance by singing quartet the African Accord Singers, a demonstration of Labrador Inuit games, international and Aboriginal country foods, craft vendors and a student panel discussing international Indigenous cultures.
“United We Stand is about learning from each other,” said Valeri Pilgrim, Aboriginal liaison officer with the ARO. “It’s about mutual respect, working together and enjoying food. Food is culture. Most of all, this event is about
accepting and welcoming others of various culturally diverse backgrounds and building friendships. It’s guaranteed to be an eye-opening and enlightening experience for all.”
Partnering on the project with the Aboriginal Resource Office are Memorial University’s Student Union, the International Student Advising office, the International Student Centre, the Go Abroad Office, the Faculty of Arts and the St. John’s Native Friendship Centre. All are welcome to attend and more information can be found at www.mun.ca/aro/about/UnitedWeStand.php.

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