Menno Simons College Blog

Reflections on Social Justice Fair 2014

Posted by CMU Staff  |  Wednesday, August 13, 2014 @ 4:33 PM

©Gina Loewen. Social Justice Fair. Menno Simons College.

On Wednesday, February 5th, 2014 Menno Simons College hosted the 8th Annual Social Justice Fair in Riddell Hall at the University of Winnipeg. Coordinated by Jocelyn Hummelt, a 2014 graduate of Conflict Resolution Studies, the Fair brought together representatives from a variety of local organizations to increase awareness of social justice issues and showcase the ongoing efforts towards peace and justice that are prevalent in and around our province.

Each year, this event provides students with the chance to consider (or re-consider) their passions as they explore future career options and pursue volunteer opportunities in the areas of international development and conflict resolution. As they engage representatives, students also practise their communication and networking skills, which helps prepare them – in a relatively small and familiar environment – for future job searches.   

As part of the Student Services team at Menno Simons College, I have participated in the Social Justice Fair for six years. I continue to be impressed and encouraged by the energy and enthusiasm of students as they connect ideas and concepts they’ve learned in their studies with the work that is happening ‘out there’. It is neat to watch the (figurative) ‘light bulb’ go on during students’ conversations with people who have put in countless hours towards advocating on behalf of the disadvantaged, empowering others to work towards change, and working towards safer, more sustainable communities. Students enter Menno Simons College with a desire to know how to be agents of change – the Social Justice Fair is one place where they can make this discovery! 

Interviews with Social Justice Fair Organizations

This year, Amy Davey, from CHVN Radio, was onsite to interview representatives from the exhibitors. Several of the interviews are featured below.

1. An interview with Canadian School of Peacebuilding

2. An interview with MCC Manitoba

3. An interview with Siloam Mission