York University faculty, staff and students are invited to the ninth annual Inclusion Day Symposium, which aims to facilitate a conversation about what “decolonize” means in society in the context of higher education. The symposium takes place Jan. 25, from 11am to 2pm, at the Keele campus.
This year’s theme “Decolonizing Community & Curriculum” explores progress in aligning Canada’s laws and institutions with reconciliation objectives, and efforts to affect such reassessment in higher education. The symposium presents a unique opportunity to engage with a variety of experts across disciplines about how decolonizing community and curriculum can enrich learning, working and research.
Phil Fontaine
The event is organized by the Centre for Human Rights, Equity and Inclusion (REI) at York, and will address this year’s theme with the keynote address “Decolonizing Community: Law, Institutions, and the Reconciliation Objective” by Phil Fontaine.
Fontaine is one of Canada’s most recognizable social justice advocates. He is an Aboriginal Canadian leader and completed his third and final term as National Chief of the Assembly of First Nations in 2009.
The keynote will be followed by a short lunch break and panel discussion on “Decolonizing Curriculum: Aspects and Action” moderated by Professor Kathleen Mahoney and featuring experts on education, dance, community activism, health, environmental science, and engineering.
“Inclusion Day has become an important gathering place for community members to participate in conversations around human rights, equity, diversity and inclusion – issues in which we all play a key part – in new and exciting ways,” said Michael F. Charles, executive director of REI. “This year, I am delighted that Phil Fontaine has been confirmed as the keynote speaker. In the lead-up to the event, we are seeing unprecedented interest and I encourage all members of the university to register early to ensure seating.”
Inclusion Day is open to all members of the York community, as well as external community members. Although the event is free of charge, space is limited and those interested should register online.
It is a pan-University event supported by the President’s Office. Inclusion Day is a signature York University event that exemplifies the University’s ongoing engagement with principles of access, equity, diversity and inclusion.
The event takes places in the Tribute Communities Recital Hall, Keele Campus, and will be live streamed to the BMO Ballroom, Glendon Campus.
The Centre for Human Rights, Equity and Inclusion (REI) at York is committed to advancing human rights and promoting the principles of equity and inclusion on its campuses.
As part of these efforts, REI seeks to profile mission critical issues, facilitate courageous conversations and deepen the engagement of community members around its stated values at the pan-University level.
For more information, visit the Inclusion Day Symposium website.