International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination

Posted March 16, 1998


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - March 16, 1998
98-03-11-OTHER

University activities target racism

Every sector of the University of Saskatchewan has planned at least one
special event to mark the United Nations International Day for the
Elimination of Racial Discrimination on March 21. In fact, the activities
take up an entire week, beginning on March 16.

Racism undermines our efforts to promote the fulfillment of human
potential, says Carole Pond, Coordinator of Discrimination and
Harassment Prevention Services and co-chair of a university-wide
planning committee for the week of March 16-20. Our mission statement
proclaims the University as a place of human dignity and fairness. This
special week clearly demonstrates how the university community speaks
with one voice in our support of this vision.

Virtually all activities are open to the general public. Most of the
seminars, videos and discussion panels are planned for over the noon
hour to encourage maximum participation. Several displays have also
been set up, including the CUPE 1975 display in the Arts Tunnel and a
book display at the U of S Bookstore. The College of Commerce has
taken an innovative approach by posting anti-racist displays on the
computers of its faculty and staff. Not to be outdone, Drama students
have anti-racism clowns presenting skits at various locations throughout
the campus. Using everything from bookmarks to a two-day symposium,
the university community will address many forms of racism and
discrimination, including issues facing the gay community.

On March 19, the University chaplains present Festival of Faith: A Multi-
Faith Celebration with music, dance and readings at Lower Place Riel,
starting at 1:00 p.m. Saint Thomas More presents another concert, More
Voices of Hope, on March 20, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the STM
Cafeteria.

I am delighted with the extent of participation during this very busy time
of the year, says University of Saskatchewan President George Ivany,
whose own office is sponsoring a special publication with essays, poems
and short stories dealing with racism.

The activities follow Aboriginal Awareness Week, March 2-6, which also
featured special events.

For more information please contact:

Dr. Carole Pond, Coordinator
Discrimination and Harassment Prevention Services
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-4936