Experiments in treating others fairly

Posted on October 16, 2019

During Anti-Discrimination and Social Justice week at the University of Pretoria, the Faculty of Theology and Religion hosted several events which brought lecturers, students, administrators, researchers and members of the wider community together so that they could reflect on the ways in which people treat one another, while also considering the prospect of nudging that personal interaction toward greater kindness and equity.

The week began with a prayer walk around campus led by Ms Bernalee Botha, complete with accordion music and readings from the Bible, in the hopes that those participating would end the march physically and spiritually uplifted.  The following day, struggle stalwart Professor Allan Boesak offered a moving public lecture, on the topic of In Search of Our Human Faces, in Centenary Hall of the faculty.

 

Building on this momentum, a group of undergraduate students organised a panel discussion related to the issues of homelessness and mental health, with support from the Department of Practical Theology and Professor Stephan de Beer.  Rounding out the week, Dr Tanya van Wyk helped facilitate a workshop for those interested in learning how to avoid or prevent sexual harassment claiming more victims at work, in the classroom and beyond, partnering with the Centre for Sexualities, AIDS and Gender for the occasion.

The scores of people that attended these events during Anti-Discrimination and Social Justice week were brought together around a common cause, building their relationships with one another and discerning what part they can play in making our world a place where the curses of marginalisation are overcome by the blessings of peace from on high.

- Author Dana Mahan

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