Workshops and Fun!

Over the last two days, the first-years have spent their time and energy invested in the Third World Transition Program’s workshops. These workshops explore systems of oppression such as racism, classism, sexism, homophobia and heterosexism, ableism, and imperialism. Workshops run for an hour and a half and allow students to explore how these systems have impacted them personally and continue to shape our society as a whole. Two juniors or seniors, who have spent their summers working and reworking each workshop, facilitate the sessions. In addition to group and small group discussions, facilitators also plan experiential activities for each workshop. These activities usually involve some form of movement and are similar to “Step to the left, Step to the right,” in which statements are read out and students are asked to move based on whether they agree or disagree. At the end of each workshop, students congratulate facilitators with a round of applause.

TWTP is not just workshops. Fun activities such as bowling, movies, a dance party, are more are planned for the students in the evenings. Spontaneous fun also occurs in between meals and workshops. After the Womyn of Color Lunch today, students gathered outside Andrews for an impromptu sound symphony.