PULLMAN, Wash. — In response to their belief that there are segments of the population which are discriminated against and whose members suffer in relative silence, some students at Washington State University have decided it is time to raise awareness. “UNcelebrate” Week kicks off the week of April 12.
“This event is run solely by students for students,” said Ranna J. Daud, director of multicultural student affairs, Associated Students of Washington State University (ASWSU). “We want people to know that there are issues that members of the multicultural community, LGBT community (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, & Transgendered), and people with disabilities face on a daily basis,” Daud said.
Discussions and lectures have been planned around the themes of “Erasing the Silence,” “Hearing the Experience,” and “Opening Your Eyes to the Ignorance.”
On April 15, Elaine Brown, the only woman ever to lead the Black Panther Party, will speak on “New Age Racism in America.” Her talk is free and open to the public at 7 p.m. in the Compton Union Building Auditorium.
“You can expect that Elaine Brown will speak to the history of social activism, her experience working within the Panthers, and other various coalitions,” said Daud.
Brown is currently the director of political affairs for the National Alliance for Radical Prison Reform, Inc, and president of the nonprofit education corporation Fields of Flowers, which seeks to build a massive model education center for black and other poor children. Brown also serves as the vice president of the Dr. Huey P. Newton Foundation.
According to Daud, student organizers of the UNcelebrate event hope to create awareness of the issues affecting minorities at WSU, as well as to educate one another. “We just want to learn from each other’s experiences…it is as simple as that,” Daud said.
“Uncelebrate: Erasing the Silence” Week Activities
Monday, April 12th: “The Invisible Concern of People with Disabilities at WSU” – Clevenger Lounge @ 6:00 p.m.
Tuesday, April 13th: “Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgendered (LGBT) Panel Discussion” – Clevenger Lounge @ 6:00 p.m.
Wednesday, April 14th: “The Local Aspect of Diversity at WSU Forum” – Butch’s Den (Basement of CUB) @ 5:00 p.m.
Thursday, April 15th: “Shades of Ignorance Project” – Glenn Terrell Mall (Posters on a clothesline will highlight student experiences with discrimination.)
Thursday, April 15th: Elaine Brown (former Black Panther Party leader) will talk on “New Age Racism in America” at 7:00 p.m. in CUB Auditorium.
