April 11, 2008
The University of Miami offers students an eye-opening experience with the ‘tunnel of oppression’
Interactive Tour Scheduled for April 21-23, 2008
Coral Gables, FL (April 11, 2008) – The University of Miami will host the “Tunnel of Oppression,” a campus-wide program that will challenge peoples’ ideas and perceptions of issues dealing with oppression, in the University Center Ballrooms (1306 Miller Drive) beginning April 21 to April 23 from 4 to 9 p.m. each day.
The “Tunnel of Oppression” is a nationally renowned sensory-based learning opportunity designed to put students out of their comfort zone and expose participants to the various types of oppressive acts that exist in society today. Specifically, the Tunnel will educate participants on tools of oppression, international human rights, religion, racism, classism, lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender issues, sexual assault/body image issues, and children’s issues. A strong emphasis will be placed on religion, primarily in the areas of Muslim-Jewish and Christian-Muslim relations.
The “Tunnel of Oppression” will consist of nine different rooms themed around these issues. The program, through the use of multimedia and interactive tours, is designed to challenge people’s thoughts, perceptions, and inner feelings on issues dealing with oppression and hatred. At the conclusion of the tour, students will enter a room of reflection where they can visually express their reactions and participate in a facilitated debriefing session. Additionally, the reflection area will help inform participants about how they can get involved with alleviating and ending various forms of oppression within their communities and beyond.
By establishing connections across the campus community, the “Tunnel of Oppression” seeks to educate and inspire the University of Miami in hopes of building a more tolerant and integrated campus community.
The program is sponsored by the Thomas Jefferson Center for the Protection of Free Expression, the Ford Foundation, the Butler Center for Volunteer Service and Leadership Development, the Office of Student Affairs, and the UM Citizens Board.
For more information contact Brittany Tedeschi at 305-284-GIVE or email umtunnel@gmail.com.
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The University of Miami’s mission is to educate and nurture students, to create knowledge, and to provide service to our community and beyond. Committed to excellence and proud of the diversity of our University family, we strive to develop future leaders of our nation and the world. www.miami.edu
Media Contact:
Sahyli Ramirez
305-284-5500
sramirez@miami.edu
