JanineBy Natalie Tharraleos, edited by Janine Griffiths
Leeds Trinity University have launched a thought-provoking series of monthly lectures focused on social justice, running until June. Each session, scheduled for the second Tuesday of the month, aims to enlighten and inspire audiences with insights from impactful speakers dedicated to driving societal change.
The lectures cover a wide range of pressing topics including race, accessibility, and health and wellbeing, all presented free of charge to the public.
This initiative underscores Leeds Trinity University’s commitment to fostering dialogue and engagement around crucial issues facing our communities, promising an enriching and enlightening experience for all who attend.
We’ve been finding out more with a Q&A featuring Natalie and Susan Wilcox, Social Justice Project Co-ordinator
Natalie: What does social justice mean to Leeds Trinity?
Susan: That is a big question! For Leeds Trinity University it is about creating a place where equity is at the heart of everything we do so that our students can take this approach into their professional and personal lives . We want to create an environment where everyone can thrive and reach their full potential and have a real sense of belonging.
Natalie: What is the inspiration behind hosting a series of lectures at Leeds Playhouse?
Susan: Social Justice is at the heart of our values as an institution, but what does this mean in practice?
Our Social Justice Lecture series is focused on understanding how social justice has been applied by our speakers both in their lives and careers. We are really pleased to be offering the opportunity for colleagues, students and the community to join us at the Playhouse for a series of conversations and discussions about some pressing societal issues and how individuals are using their agency to build solidarity and influence change.
Natalie: How have you picked the themes and speakers?
Susan: For our first series we have reached out to various people, some we know through our community work , some through our work with the Leeds Learning Alliance, and through our relationship with the Leeds Playhouse. We wanted to create a programme that looks at social justice through many intersectional lenses. For our second series we will be welcoming suggestions! We would like the series to run and run.
Natalie: Who are you hoping to reach?
Susan: We really want to reach our students at Leeds Trinity University so they can embed a sense of social justice in everything they do. That absolutely involves engaging with our vibrant and diverse community, so the events are free and open to all, so that we can give everyone an opportunity to enjoy and be part of these rich discussions with people who are committed to equity.
Natalie: Who’s up next?
Social Justice Series – Access: In Conversation with Steph Lacey and Amy Leach
You can join Amy Leach and Steph Lacey as they discuss the importance of accessibility as a form of social justice. Amy and Steph discuss their approach to access in their lives and in their work, interrogating how the arts can connect with audiences to start conversations about social justice through representation and equal access. They will consider the progress we’ve made, how far we have got to go in these areas and how we can work together to overcome barriers to access.
Then in May you can join Sharon Watson, CEO and Principal of the Northern School of Contemporary Dance., sharing her life’s work and unwavering commitment to social justice. Sharon hopes her story will leave you motivated to make a difference in the world.
Natalie: How can readers find out what’s on?
Please contact Susan if you’d like to be a speaker later this year
