Students plan educational event to highlight and combat oppression

Contact: Jeanne Baron

KALAMAZOO—Members of the public will have a chance to learn more about oppression and how to combat it during a free program set for Thursday, Nov. 29, on Western Michigan University's main campus.

The Wall of Oppression program will take place at the Campus Flagpoles near the Lee Honors College building. It will feature a quilt made by WMU students and Kalamazoo community members that will be displayed and available for viewing from 1 to 7:30 p.m. at the promenade.

Periodically during that time, representatives from several community organizations and WMU registered student organizations will talk about how they combat oppression. They also will share information about resources available to respond to oppression.

The formal part of the program will begin at 6:30 p.m., when a keynote speaker will discuss how the Kalamazoo community can work together to combat oppression. Following the keynote talk, attendees will have an opportunity to physically knock down the Wall of Oppression, symbolically demolishing oppression in the local area.

WMU faculty members are encouraged to consider incorporating The Wall of Oppression as a part of their class schedules or to offer extra credit for attendance.

Program sponsors include WMU's Residence Life, apartments office, and Davis, French and Zimmerman residence halls.

For more information, contact Roshona Porter, residence hall director for the Little Three residence hall complex, at roshona.porter@wmich.edu or (269) 387-6640.