Social Justice Week

When I arrived last year in St Andrews, I had to adjust to a few things. First of all, I had to get used to the weather (and that’s saying something given that I grew up in Norway). Secondly, being from Oslo, I was quite surprised by how decentralized certain aspects of our community are. That is not to say that we don’t have a diverse student body or that there aren’t events promoting this diversity, but it does seem like people stick to what they know and who they know. Now, let me ask you this: what does the optimal St Andrews experience look like to you? If you look beyond that unforgettable Raisin Weekend or when you hooked up with your potential husband, you will realize that there is so much more to university than that.  

Let’s be honest – there is only so much you can see in this town. It really is all about the people! Now, they say we have around 130 different nationalities represented at this university. Just imagine the potential in that. It is about time we tap into our diversity and use it for all its worth. If you come here and glide in with the same people, hold on to the same opinions or ideas about certain people or groups, then I have to say that you are really missing out on a great opportunity to challenge and enrich yourself.

I have to say it has been incredible working with individuals from so many different backgrounds, and yet seemingly on the same path in life. You realize that you have to look beyond race and nationality and how a person chooses to be identified. You will be intrigued by the stories behind the people and the pictures presented at the “Roots” Exhibiton.    

Social Justice Week is a new student-led initiative with the aim of celebrating the cultural and ethnic diversity of our society. The week-long series of events will bring students and members of the local community from a variety of ethnic and cultural backgrounds together, to engage in discussions on the contemporary difficulties facing minorities. The aim is to challenge attendees to consider potential ways in which our society can respond to and, ultimately, address these issues. Take a look below for the amazing events coming your way.

Monday 12th:

“Health Issues and the Asylum Process – Is It Fit For A Purpose?”

Mr Brady from the Scottish Refugee Council will be giving a talk on what life is like for refugees and asylum seekers in Scotland, with a focus on healthcare.  

When and Where: 5pm in Seminar Room 1, School of Medicine.

Photos: Sage Lancaster

On the same day, the “ROOTS” Exhibiton will showcase the cultural diversity we have in our local community. Alongside the exhibition will be a display, entitled “This Is What Social Justice Looks Like”, which will feature photographs and art from St Andrews students and humanitarian societies.

When and Where: 7pm in the top corridor of the Student Union Building.                                                     

Tuesday 13th:

“Goodbye Bafana”: In joint venture with the Oxfam Society we will screen “Goodbye Bafana”.

When and Where: 7pm in School 1.

Wednesday 14th:

“Education Under Fire”: In joint venture with the Forward Thinking Initiative, we will screen ”Education Under Fire”- a documentary that focuses on how certain religious minorities in Iran are prevented from pursuing higher education.

When and Where: 6.30pm in School 3.

Thursday 15th:

“The 2011 Riots: Causes and Legacies”: Professor Reicher will hold a lecture on the causes of the UK riots and their legacy in the public mind.

When and Where: 7pm in Lower Parliament Hall

Friday 16th:

“Human Rights at Our Door Step” In joint venture with Amnesty Society this panel discussion will discuss the reasons behind widespread discrimination against Scottish Gypsy Travellers.

When and Where: 6.30pm in School 3.