People mattered at York's 2nd annual International Development Week

By Sana Mulji

"When People Matter" was the theme of the second annual International Development Week (IDW) held in York University Feb. 15, 1999. Initiated in1990 by the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA), IDW explored several dimensions of development with participation from high commissions and consulates, nongovernment organizations, York research centres, the colleges, Faculties and student groups.

Capitalizing on York's strengths, commitments and initiatives, IDW offered a focal point to celebrate the rich diversity in scholarship and internationalism in York. It also offered an opportunity for students of development to interact with their colleagues across disciplines and to discuss current research work with faculty, while providing important interaction between York University and many community organizations and agencies.

The program throughout the week was both varied and stimulating.

The Mexican Consul General presented "Aspects of Mexican Society at the End of the Century" while the Consul General of Cyprus arranged for the Dean of Arts and Science from Purdue and Indiana Universities to discuss "Cyprus and EU: Issues of Security in the Mediterranean".

Founders College organized a one-day symposium discussing "Multi-ethnicity and Democracy in the Sudan". In collaboration with McLaughlin College, Founders tutorials on international development were opened. As well, the Cock and Bull Pub served a multiethnic cuisine during the week.

Professor Wesley of the Schulich School of Business spoke on "Corruption as a Barrier to Economic Development". The Faculty of Environmental Studies offered a wide range of programs from "Gaining Work Experience in International Development" to the launching of a film presentation "The Global Food Puzzle".

The contribution of York's research centres in discussing York's current international development projects was greatly valued. Included in these offerings, the Centre for Applied Sustainability started the week with "Sustainability and the UN", presented by Elizabeth Dowdeswell, former Executive Director of the United Nations Environmental Program. The Centre for Research on Latin America and the Caribbean (CERLAC) organized a presentation on "Hurricane Mitch: An Aftermath".

Laura Sarino van der Smissen, Intercultural Consultant and co-author of Diversophy, in collaboration with York International, provided good opportunity to explore issues of culture, gender, race and power in a multicultural environment in an interactive workshop.

The International & Exchange Students Society (INTERESTS) organized "Postcards From", a regional exhibition in York Lanes, coordinated with the Armenian Students Association, Dominican Students Association, The Filipino Students Association, Guyanese Social Club, The German European Club, Glendon International Club, Hellenic Students Association, Jewish Students Federation, Pakistan Students Association, and Sri Lankan and Latin American Students. They also presented "Echo of World Voices" a night of poetry in several languages, music from the Klizmer Band and stories from around the world.

The closing of the week featured a two hour cultural show "1 Time" in the Underground with comedy skits, dances and songs.

International Development Week was sponsored by York International with cooperation of several Faculties and academic departments. Founders College was a participant partner. The Faculty of Arts, Office of Student Affairs, Centre for Race & Ethnic Relations and Senate Travels offered financial contributions towards the week's activities.