During the eighth annual Social Justice Leadership Conference Oct. 31, students participated in many seminars, discussions and workshops under the theme “Unmasking Social Change.
The Office of Student Activities and Leadership Development, the Office of Equity and Inclusion, the Office of Community Service and various student leaders, including Victoria King ‘18 and Shardonnay Pagett ‘18, organized the conference, which took place in 41 Wyllys.The daylong event included several speakers and a final keynote speech given by Kiese Laymon, an accomplished author and professor of English at Vassar College.This year, Wesleyan collaborated with the Connecticut Campus Compact and invited students from schools across the state. The partnership was fruitful for students of other schools and Wesleyan students alike. “Getting different perspectives is refreshing when you’re on a small campus working with the same minds all the time,” participant Tedra James ‘18 said.Participants learned about trait findings of prejudice and discrimination.Through dialogue and workshops that refine leadership skills, the event aimed to empower participants to create social change – starting by unmasking it. (Photos by Will Barr ’18. Story by Margaret Curtis.)
Olivia Drake
Mike Mavredakis
Andrew Chatfield