TRU’s unique demographic composition represents an advantage, but also a challenge. While the cultural plurality of our student body, faculty, and staff is an undeniable resource for the development of a rich and cosmopolitan university experience, the increasing convergence of groups with different ethnic backgrounds also creates the potential for cultural frictions and even acts of discrimination and inequitable treatment. Moreover, the increased public presence of ethnic nationalism around the world and in Canada has sparked renewed interest in the balance between free expression and equality rights at universities. All around the world, prejudice has been emboldened and we witness increasing forms of racism and cultural intolerance in the public space. At the same time, there is a growing reaction against the presence and achievements of equality movements, such as feminism and LGTBQI. Classrooms and public spaces in universities have increasingly become sites of politically and emotionally charged exchanges between groups who subscribe to deeply conflicted ideologies. During this session we will explore strategies that the seek inclusion of multiple perspectives while at the same time decreasing the risk of full blown conflict or unsafe learning environments for students.

Facilitators: Amie McLean, Kyra Garson, and Alejandro Campos-Garcia Intercultural Coordinators, Faculty of Student Development