Events commemorate International Women’s Day,
International Day for Elimination of Racial Discrimination
TORONTO, March 4, 2005 -- In recognition of the International Women's Day (March 8) and the International Day for Elimination of Racial Discrimination (March 21), York University will hold a series of special events aimed at addressing concerns of sexism, racism and related issues.
This year’s theme, "United Against Violence and Discrimination: Past, Present and Future," incorporates workshops, poetry readings, film screenings, and women’s self-defense classes.
“York University is a truly dynamic and multicultural community of students and scholars. We are at the forefront in raising awareness on key social issues affecting women and promoting respect for diversity. Over the coming weeks, we have an opportunity as a community to take this message against discrimination and hatred out into the world at large,” says York University President and Vice Chancellor Lorna R. Marsden.
Organized by York University’s Office of the Ombudsperson and Centre for Human Rights, the events will kick off with a reception on Tuesday, March 8, featuring speeches by Fiona Crean, Ombudsperson & Director of Centre for Human Rights, d'bi young, dub poet and storytelling actor (left), and Talat Muinuddin, women's advocate.
On March 21st, York University presents renowned speakers Austin Clarke and Roberta Jamieson of the Mohawk Nation. Jamieson was the Ombudsman for the Province of Ontario and until recently Chief of the Six Nations of the Grand River Territory. She is now the CEO of the National Aboriginal Achievement Foundation. Austin Clarke is a professor of literature, author of numerous best-selling books, and his most recent novel, The Polished Hoe, has received widespread acclaim, earning many accolades and awards, including the 2002 Giller Prize and the Commonwealth Prize.
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For further information, please contact:
Melissa Hughes, Media Relations, York University, 416-736-2100 x22097/ mehughes@yorku.ca
