Ryerson to lead critical conversation about privilege and oppression in Canada

Though Canada is praised around the world for its multiculturalism, significant hurdles still exist in communities nationwide. Proudly diverse and intentionally inclusive, Ryerson University’s Office of the Vice-President, Equity and Community Inclusion will be hosting The White Privilege Conference (WPC) Global - Toronto from May 9-12, 2018, with an aim of exploring Canadian challenges with privilege and oppression nationally and a special emphasis on global perspectives.

WPC is an annual staple in the United States. After a symposium at Brock University in 2016, the full conference is making its international debut with its first appearance in Canada. Ryerson University will be its proud host, and aims to lead transformative and solutions-based discussions about the impact of privilege as it relates to issues that focus on, and that go beyond, race.

“Ryerson is pleased to host White Privilege Conference Global - Toronto for its first Canadian edition,” said Denise O’Neil Green, vice-president, equity and community inclusion, Ryerson University. “We have an impressive lineup of thought leaders that will both educate attendees and empower them to build a more inclusive world. We invite diverse and respectful perspectives and we encourage everyone to be a part of it.”

Hundreds of people are expected to attend the four-day event, which features a prominent group of keynote speakers:

Shirley Cheechoo, Chancellor, Brock University

Rinaldo Walcott, Associate Professor, Ontario Institute for Studies in Education

Adrien K. Wing, Associate Dean, University of Iowa

John Powell, Executive Director and Chancellor's Chair, Haas Institute

Jane Fernandes, President, Guilford College

Ritu Bhasin, Speaker, Author and Advocate

Desmond Cole, Activist and Freelance Journalist

The conference will also feature the achievements of accomplished Black women in Canada at the 10th annual Viola Desmond Awards and Banquet on May 11, 2018. This year’s dinner will also celebrate the debut of Canada’s new $10 bill featuring Desmond, the first Black woman to be on the face of Canada’s currency.  

Registration is now open for WPC Global - Toronto. It will bring together a unique suite of presenters and participants from all walks of life. Students, post-secondary professionals and faculty, leaders in the corporate and non-profit sectors, activists, artists, social workers, counsellors, healthcare workers, and members of faith communities are all welcome to attend. For more information on how to register and get involved, please visit the conference site.