This week, members of the Queen’s community will have the opportunity to join an event aimed at breaking down social barriers and unifying people despite their differences.  

On Sept. 18, Solidarity Kingston and the Ontario Public Interest Research Group (OPIRG) are hosting a film screening and discussion around the topics of racism, immigration, and marginalization in Canada.

The event will take place as a part of OPIRG’s “Alt-Frosh,” an event-filled week focused on the topic of achieving social and environmental justice. The screening will be held in Dunning Hall, room 11 at 5:30 p.m.

Solidarity Kingston is an independent group united around the belief that everyone, regardless of their immigration status, religion, sexual orientation, ability, or age, should have access to basic services like public health and police services.

The organization seeks to improve the divisiveness they believe politicians can encourage. They assert that the Canadian government treats refugees and migrants as scapegoats to avoid accountability for decisions they make.

The film Unite Against Racism, created by the Migrant Rights Network, is an educational short film that provides insight into problems facing migrants in Canada and critiques our current political climate. These issues range from immigration laws, to demonization, to policies in place limiting refugees’ access to basic services.

After the film screening, the Solidarity Kingston and the OPIRG will moderate a discussion, where all participants will have the opportunity to talk about the film with one another.

According to Solidarity Kingston member Marion Gonsalves, the goal of the event is to get people talking about the situation facing immigrants in Canada, since their experiences are different from most.

Gonsalves added that Solidarity Kingston’s goal is to help create a centre for discussions and act as a safe space for members of the Kingston community to talk about this issue.

The film screening and discussion is meant to provide an immersive learning opportunity for all attendees.

Film is a powerful medium of social change. It allows for an audience to be exposed to numerous stories and perspectives in a short period of time in a way that is both engaging, informative, and lasting.

With film, viewers will have a direct look at the issues facing many migrants in Canada and will be better able to empathize with and understand their experience.

Emboldened by a desire to make a change and ignite an important conversation, A Film and a Talk with Solidarity Kingston seeks to foster an inclusive environment where all voices may be heard.

As members of the Queen’s community, it is important to learn about the experiences of others, so that we may all live in solidarity.