UM’s Public Classroom Initiative provides short, accessible learning opportunities.
The Office of Equity Transformation’s Public Classroom Initiative helps the UM community move beyond polarization by fostering informed dialogue and deeper understanding of contemporary issues. Drawing on the expertise of UM faculty, researchers and staff, the initiative offers accessible opportunities to engage with timely and complex topics in a constructive and respectful environment.
Open to all members of the university community, the series features short, accessible lunchtime sessions held in the Fireside Lounge (first floor, UMSU University Centre). Each session includes a 20-minute presentation by a UM expert, followed by a 10-minute question-and-answer period.
“When we learn together, explore new areas of knowledge, welcome complexity and expand our understanding of issues shaping our current moment, we create the conditions for informed and engaged conversation,” says Tina Chen, Vice-Provost (Equity). “By placing learning in public spaces and in short presentations, the Public Classroom Initiative removes barriers to accessing teaching and research expertise at UM. We hope to see staff, students and faculty from a range of units, lived identities and positions attending and joining broader dialogues at UM.”
Topics are organized around three themes: Black Studies at UM, Anti-Racism, and Learning for Democratic Futures
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