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What’s New for June 2016
The ARCDO would like to congratulate the graduating class of 2016! And to the whole of the U of T community, we hope that you have an opportunity to enjoy the beautiful weather with friends and family.
National Aboriginal History Month and National Aboriginal Day
The month of June is National Aboriginal History Month and June 21st is National Aboriginal Day. The National Assembly of First Nations calls June “a month of advocacy, awareness and action” and reminds us that “we are all Treaty people”. The ARCDO would like to encourage all members of the U of T community to participate in some of Indigenous events taking place across the city.
Traditional Outdoor Pow Wow
The Na-Me-Res Traditional Pow Wow is held to recognize National Aboriginal History Month. The event features traditional dancing, drumming, feast, giveaways, kids’ area, and craft vendors. More than one hundred traditional dancers are expected to participate. The day begins with a sunrise ceremony and the Grand Entry takes place at 12 noon.
Values of Diversity, Inclusion, Respect and Civility
See the recent Statement by President Meric Gertler and Provost Cheryl Regehr reiterating the University’s fundamental values of diversity, inclusion, respect and civility. The Statement is posted at the following link: http://www.president.utoronto.ca/statement-on-anti-semitism-and-racism.
U of T Pride Pub – SWEET 16!
You’re invited to start your Pride surrounded by friends and colleagues in the beautiful outdoor Hart House Quad. The 2016 edition of Pride Pub marks the 16th anniversary of the event! Join us early for some drinks, a delicious outdoor BBQ & Community Fair or wait ’til the stars come out and dance all night long with our fabulous DJs and performers
Connections and Conversations Moves Ahead to Establish Local Chapters
Over 85 staff members across all three U of T campuses attended the planning meetings to establish local chapters of Connections and Conversations, the affinity group for racialized staff. The meetings were held on May 18 on the UTSC, UTM and St. George campuses, respectively.
The Connections and Conversations Steering Committee was very pleased with the attendance on each of the three campuses and felt that staff response signalled that the formation of Connections and Conversations resonated for many staff.
“We had a great opening discussion with all three campuses connected via video-conference, and then continued with separate campus-specific meetings. The group generated amazing ideas for future activities, including mentoring, networking, speakers, and more,” said Archana Sridhar, a Steering Committee member. Of importance was the fact that establishment of the group is supported by the University, and in particular, the Vice President Human Resources & Equity, Angela Hildyard and the Vice-President & Provost, Cheryl Regehr.
If you are interested in participating in the local chapter of Connections and Conversations for your campus and/or wish to find out more about when the next meeting for the local chapter will be held, please send an email to connectionsandconversations@utoronto.ca.
More Events
(If you wish to request that your event be included in our monthly newsletter, please submit requests to antiracism@utoronto.ca at least one week prior to the beginning of the new month.)
Wednesday June 1, Volunteers Wanted for Summer Mentorship Program (SMP)! SMP gives high school students of Indigenous or African ancestry an opportunity to explore the health sciences at the University of Toronto during the month of July. We are currently recruiting mentors who are pursuing an education within the Health Sciences. In addition, we are seeking volunteers who can assist with SMP events. This is a great opportunity to get involved with an amazing initiative and make a lasting impact on a student’s life!
Throughout June, Various Locations, Aboriginal Celebrations at the Toronto Public Library! During the month of June, the Toronto Public Library celebrates Canada’s Indigenous heritage with free programs for all ages. Enjoy storytelling, lectures, musical performances, author talks, puppet shows and crafts at library branches across the city.
Thursday June 2, 6 pm to 9 pm, DESIGN JUSTICE JAM: POSTER DESIGN WORKSHOP! Workshop for designers, artists, advocates and community organizers to co-create posters for their own causes. 6-9 pm. Pwyc, $10 suggested donation. Pre-register.
Sunday June 5, 1 pm to 10 pm, DIVERSITYFEST! Celebrating Canada’s cultural kaleidoscope with a fusion of South Asian, Chinese, Filipino and Arab arts and culture performances, food and market vendors, activities, prizes and more. 1-10 pm. Free.
Sunday June 26, 2 pm to 3 pm, 77 Wynford Dr., Aga Khan Museum, ISLAM AND MUSLIMS IN THE 21st CENTURY: Communing with the Divine: Islamic Mystical Traditions and the Arts. Our 2016 lecture series tackles the theme “Islam and Muslims in the 21st Century.” Featuring scholars and journalists who are leading thought-provoking conversations about Muslims and Islam today, the series addresses questions of identity and belonging, youth and integration, and immigration and settlement.
Friday June 24 to July 3, Various Location Accorss the City, TD Toronto Jazz Festival! The TD Toronto Jazz Festival has become known as one of North America’s premier jazz festivals. Attractions include more than 400 performances with over 2000 musicians performing at approximately 50 locations around Toronto. The heart of the Festival is now located at Nathan Phillips Square in the heart of downtown Toronto with an impressive 1,200 seat fully-licensed Main Stage Marquee and outdoor stage where many extraordinary events are offered free to the public.
Wednesday June 29, 7 pm, Community Forum on the Universal Basic Income. Community forum with speakers Adam Vaughan, Sheila Regehr, Josephine Grey, John Clarke and others. 7 pm. Free. Pre-register.
Disclaimer: This newsletter may contain links to non– Anti–Racism & Cultural Diversity Office (ARCDO) websites. These links are provided solely as convenience to you. The ARCDO is not responsible for the content of any non–ARCDO websites and does not endorse the information contained therein.