The University of Windsor’s Making-it-Awkward Committee is hosting its third annual symposium, “Real Talk: A Discussion of Systemic Oppression Faced by Racial Minorities,” on Friday, March 22, from 6 to 9 p.m. at the School of Social Work, in Windsor Hall at 167 Ferry St.

The event is aimed at educating the community by facilitating a discussion around the systemic oppression faced by racial minorities in today’s society. It will feature an ethnically diverse panel discussion featuring speakers from Indigenous, Black, South Asian, East Asian, Arab, and Caucasian communities. Local community vendors and performances by University of Windsor students will also take place.

“The purpose of this event is to showcase how multiple intersecting identities have a significant impact an individual’s lived experience,” said Lacy Carty, a Windsor Law student and co-organizer of the event. “By introducing the concept of intersectionality, we hope to have a more comprehensive discussion on systemic oppression that is inclusive of the diverse Windsor-Essex community.”

This year’s symposium will feature panellists from several organizations, including Ravyn Wngz, Black Lives Matter Toronto; Beverly Jacobs, Windsor Law professor and former president of the Native Women’s Association of Canada; Fatima Ahmed and Tiffany Gooch, Windsor Law student activists.

Admission is free, but attendees are asked to register on Eventbrite. For more information, visit Windsor Law’s website.

—Rachelle Prince