FRIDAY, MARCH 1st, 2024
Film Screening: “Someone Lives Here” by Zach Russell
Time: 7:00PM-9:00PM
Location: 10C Shared Space: 4th Floor (42 Carden St, Guelph, ON)
Come on a cinematic journey with us this Friday night at the Rebel Knowledge Symposium’s opening event! Join us for the screening of “Someone Lives Here,” a powerful film directed by Zach Russell. Witness the remarkable tale of carpenter Khaleel Seivwright, who transforms his skills into tangible solutions for homelessness. The film unveils a narrative of resilience and innovation, setting the tone for our 2024 symposium on food and housing injustice. This free event promises not only a thought-provoking experience but also complimentary popcorn and snacks for all attendees. Let’s come together, kick off the Rebel Knowledge Symposium, and be inspired by stories of positive change that challenge the status quo. Your presence and perspective are crucial in our collective pursuit of a more just and equitable world.
Join us on the 4th floor of 10C. Snacks will be provided- but you are also welcome to bring your own. We will have a short discussion afterwards to get us all excited for the weekend’s symposium.
SATURDAY, MARCH 2nd, 2024
Registration, Information fair & Interactive Activities
Time: 10:00AM-11:00AM
Location: Peter Clark Hall, Main Room
Arrive, register, and get ready for an informative and empowering day. Fuel up with coffee and morning snacks as you explore the information fair. Engage in interactive activities that promise a vibrant start to your morning. Join us for a delightful blend of information, connection, and energy. Get revved up and ready for our first panel and a full day of Rebel Knowledge.
Naloxone Training Workshop
Time: 10:00AM-11:00AM
Location: University Centre, Room 441
With Jamie MacBeth and friends from Sanguen
Grab a quick morning coffee and then grab hold of some life saving knowledge. You are invited to participate in a short yet impactful workshop focused on Naloxone—a life-saving drug that plays a crucial role in preventing opioid overdose deaths. Learn how to confidently administer Naloxone, understand the signs of overdose, and gain essential knowledge on what to do (and not do) when helping someone experiencing an overdose.
Keynote Panel on Classism, Capitalism, Colonialism and Poverty
Time: 11:00AM-12:30PM
Location: Peter Clark Hall, Main Room
Panelists: John Clarke, Chelsey Edwards, and Rachelle Sauve
We are excited to extend an invitation to a thought-provoking keynote address that delves into the intricate dynamics of classism and capitalism, examining their profound influence on food and housing security and justice. This event promises to be an eye-opening exploration, bringing key questions to the forefront on issues like poor bashing and class discrimination.
Catered Lunch Break
Time: 12:30PM-1:30PM
Location: Peter Clark Hall, Main Room
Indulge in a healthy catered lunch tailored to all dietary needs as you build connections at our gathering. Explore the info fair, partake in creative arts and activities. Then, share your insights at the Speaker’s Corner. Join us for a wholesome experience of nourishment, camaraderie, and collaborative dialogue. Lunch is free for all those registered. You are welcome to register at any time during the weekend.
Keynote Panel on Housing Injustice
Time: 1:30PM-3:30PM
Location: Peter Clark Hall, Main Room
Panelists: Ricardo Trajan, Dominica McPherson, and Rachel Vear
Join our illuminating panel discussion on housing injustice, exploring the barriers hindering progress and envisioning sustained, systemic change. Delve into the question: “Why can’t we attain universal housing justice?” Your insights are crucial in charting a path towards a future where equitable housing is a fundamental right. Don’t miss this transformative dialogue!
War on Drugs Workshop
Time: 3:45PM-5:15PM
Location: University Centre, Room 442
With Jamie MacBeth and friends from Sanguen
We invite you to participate in a crucial workshop that seeks to unravel the complex dynamics of the War on Drugs and its inherent connection to the War on the Poor. Join us to learn from individuals working directly with affected communities, employing anti-oppressive strategies to navigate and resist these interconnected systems of injustice.
‘Meaning Making’: Non-Disposability Circle
Time: 3:45PM-5:00PM
Location: Peter Clark Hall, Room 001B
With the Wild Queer Abolitionists
Wild Queer Abolitionists of Wellington are an emerging collective of queer, trans, BIPOC and allied abolitionists living, loving and learning in the Guelph area. Join them for a 1 hour Meaning making” circle exploring the concept and abolitionist practices of non-disposability, as well as the ways that disposability arises as a systemic, institutional and social tool of carceral justice. We hope to unpack how ‘state organized vulnerability, abandon and disposability’ underlies neoliberal rolling back of critical social services like housing and food justice. Community will be invited to sit in a circle with us, to share perspectives, and make art along the way. We will provide materials, prompts and encouragement. We hope to generate artistic expressions that support inclusive, dynamic and ongoing community dialogue.
FIGs Zine Exploration
Time: 3:45PM-5:00PM
Location: University Centre, Room 441
With the FIGs Collective
Join FIGS (Food Insecurity Group) in a vibrant exploration of their zine collection, where DIY culture converges with purpose. This OPIRG working group, dedicated to all facets of food justice, invites you to unravel the stories within our zines. Discover how grassroots initiatives and individual direction intertwine to create a collective force for change. Whether you’re a seasoned zine enthusiast or a newcomer, come engage in meaningful conversations about the intersection of culture, activism, and food justice. Let’s amplify our voices and craft a more equitable and sustainable food future together. Help to inform and inspire future zines.
Sunday, March 3rd, 2024
Registration, Information Fair & Interactive Activities
Time: 10:00AM-11:00AM
Location: Peter Clark Hall, Main Room
Arrive, register, and get ready for an informative and empowering day. Fuel up with coffee and morning snacks as you explore the info fair. Engage in interactive activities that promise a vibrant start to your morning. Join us for a delightful blend of information, connection, and energy. Get revved up and ready for more Rebel Knowledge.
Get Involved! Showcase of Community Organizations
Time: 11:00AM-12:00PM
Location: Peter Clarke Hall, Main Room
So now that I understand more, how do I start working with others in my community to end food and housing injustice? Join us for a very special get to know you gathering featuring diverse community groups dedicated to combating food and housing injustice. Learn firsthand about their impactful initiatives, discover how to get involved, and explore grassroots direct action. Community mobilizations rely on volunteers to effectuate change. Where could you help out in a way that can positively impact your community and support your growth as a force of resistance? Your presence amplifies the collective strength of movements striving for a more equitable future. Don’t miss this opportunity to sign up and be part of change!
Catered Lunch Break
Time: 12:00PM-1:00PM
Location: Peter Clark Hall, Main Room
Join us for a wholesome catered lunch, designed for all dietary needs. Spend the hour deepening connections, signing up to volunteer with community groups, contributing to collaborative art, and engaging in interactive activities. Visit Speaker’s Corner to share your thoughts or take a moment for self-reflection. Recharge and prepare for an afternoon of expanding your rebel knowledge!
Keynote Panel on Food Injustice
Time: 1:00PM-2:30PM
Location: Peter Clark Hall, Main Room
Panelists: Nicole Leighton, Nayssam Shujauddin, Sarah Eltayeb and Jade De Costa
You are cordially invited to join us for an enlightening and interactive panel discussion on food injustice, where we will delve into the crucial question: “Why can’t we attain food justice?” Elevate your understanding of food justice at our keynote panel discussion! Diverse voices converge to illuminate the complexities of food injustice and provide actionable strategies for change. Be part of the conversation—ask questions, share insights, and engage with panel guests. . Join us for an enlightening dialogue that empowers and mobilizes. Together, let’s nourish change! Your presence is crucial as we seek to unravel complexities, explore solutions, and foster community engagement.
Student Town Hall
Time: 2:45PM-4:45PM
Location: University Centre, Room 442
With Razz Routly
Empower yourself and be a catalyst for change! You are invited to participate in an impactful workshop on student organizing followed by a town hall discussion focusing on how university students can collectively advocate for housing and food justice on campus.
Food System Resiliency Table: Addressing Systemic Racism
Time: 2:45PM-4:45PM
Location: University Centre, Room 441
With Winston Husbands
The Food System Resiliency Table (The Table) connects diverse stakeholders from the food, farming, and community to make a better food system for all of us in Guelph-Wellington. Join us at our public meeting to learn about and discuss how systemic racism is a core contributor to food insecurity for Black Canadians. Winston Husbands will be presenting who is an adjunct professor at the University of Toronto’s Dalla Lana School of Public Health, and a member of the Black Food Sovereignty Working Group.
Installations, Information and Interactive Activities
Speakers Corner
Time: Saturday and Sunday, 10:00AM-5:00PM
Location: University Centre, Room 429
Your voice matters, and we invite you to be a part of our Speaker’s Corner on Food and Housing Injustice—an open space for sharing experiences, fostering understanding, and inspiring change. This Speaker’s Corner is a platform for empowerment. It’s an opportunity to amplify your voice and raise awareness about the systemic issues surrounding food and housing. Your participation can be as brief or in-depth as you’re comfortable with—every voice contributes to a more comprehensive understanding.
Short Film Screening
Time: Saturday and Sunday, 10:00AM-5:00PM
Location: Peter Clark Hall, Room 001A
Experience the beauty of community gardening and migrant stories through a captivating short film by a local filmmaker and food justice advocate- Karen Houle. Join us in a weekend of continuous screenings, offering a window into vibrant narratives. Don’t miss the chance to meet the filmmaker, discuss their inspiration, and connect with the community.
Art Space
Time: Saturday and Sunday, 10:00AM-5:00PM
Location: Peter Clark Hall, Room 001B
Join us in an open art space, filled with endless possibilities and art supplies. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or a beginner let your creativity flow as we collectively transform ideas into vibrant masterpieces. Envision a world where universal food and housing justice prevail, and let your artistic expression illuminate the path toward change. Join us in crafting original works that reflect the transformative power of equitable access to basic needs. You are invited to explore the impact of injustice on our communities and to allow art to become a powerful voice in the conversation, fostering dialogue and inspiring collective action. Together, let’s paint a vivid picture of a future where everyone thrives.
Chill Space
Time: Saturday and Sunday, 10:00AM-5:00PM
Location: University Centre, Room 270
Relax, reflect, and rejuvenate at our tranquil Artspace. Take a break from the hustle, immerse yourself in soothing vibes, and enjoy a moment of self-care. Surrounded by art, it’s the perfect retreat to unwind and reconnect with yourself. Join us for a peaceful escape within creativity. You are absolutely invited to create art- but are equally invited to sip a cup of tea and just be.
Envisioning Justice: Collaborative Vision Boarding
Time: Saturday and Sunday, 10:00AM-5:00PM
Location: Hallway Outside of Peter Clark Hall
Embark on a creative journey with us at our symposium this weekend! Join in the collective vision for a world steeped in Food Justice and Housing Justice. In the hallway, we’ve set up a space for collaborative vision boards. Contribute your dreams, whether it’s through drawings, collages, or words. Bring your unique perspective and let’s weave a tapestry of aspirations that reflects our shared vision for an equitable future. This interactive installation is a testament to the power of collective imagination, capturing the essence of what a world with food justice and housing justice looks like. Your creativity becomes a vital thread in the fabric of change. Let’s unite in envisioning a world where these fundamental rights are accessible to all.
Provide a contribution to these vision boards at any time during the weekend. Prepare something in advance to add to the board or offer something in a moment when you are moved to do so. If you’d like to offer a contribution but cannot attend the symposium in person- email your offering to symposium_logistics@opirgguelph.org.
Recipe Nook
Time: Saturday and Sunday, 10:00AM-5:00PM
Location: Peter Clark Hall, Room 001A
Indulge your taste buds and nourish your budget at our Recipe Nook! Explore a treasure trove of recipes for healthy, affordable meals that require minimal time and equipment. Take home copies of your favorite recipes and discover new culinary delights. Contributing is encouraged – find blank recipe cards to share your go-to creations, making this nook a communal space for culinary inspiration. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, join us in celebrating the joy of cooking and sharing practical, budget-friendly recipes that elevate both your health and your taste buds. Let’s build a collection that reflects the diverse and delicious possibilities of affordable, nutritious meals!
How to Garden Installation
Time: Saturday and Sunday, 10:00AM-5:00PM
Location: Peter Clark Hall, Room 001A
Pause, reflect, and embark on a journey toward self-sustainability at our symposium. Take a moment to explore our unique installation mapping the simple steps anyone can take to start growing their own food immediately. From small spaces to community gardens, this visual guide demystifies the process, empowering you to embark on a fulfilling journey of homegrown nourishment. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a novice, discover practical insights that transcend barriers. Join us in envisioning a future where cultivating your own food becomes an accessible and rewarding reality for all. Your visit to this installation is an investment in the shared dream of a more sustainable and equitable food landscape.
Know Your Tenant Rights Installation
Time: Saturday and Sunday, 10:00AM-5:00PM
Open when there is no other workshop occurring in the same space.
Location: University Centre, Room 441
Empower yourself in the realm of tenant rights at our housing and food justice symposium! Visit our informative installation, available all weekend, to delve into the intricacies of tenants’ rights in Ontario. Explore valuable resources for tenants facing potential violations and discover avenues to address concerns. Gain insights into the significance of organizing around tenants’ rights and the purpose behind initiatives like rent strikes. Whether you’re a tenant seeking information or an advocate for housing justice, this installation offers crucial knowledge to navigate the rights and responsibilities in the complex landscape of renting. Your visit contributes to a collective understanding and fosters informed, empowered communities in the pursuit of fair and equitable housing practices.
Housing Help Installation
Time: Saturday and Sunday, 10:00AM-5:00PM
Open when there is no other workshop occurring in the same space.
Location: University Centre, Room 441
Embark on a journey of community support at our food and housing justice symposium! Explore our dedicated informational display, available all weekend, showcasing the diverse organizations in Guelph committed to housing justice. Find crucial contact information, connecting you with community members ready to assist during housing precarity. Navigate resources highlighting all shelters and temporary housing spaces in the city, empowering you with essential knowledge. Whether you seek assistance or wish to deepen your understanding, this display serves as a comprehensive guide for fostering collaboration and solidarity. Your visit contributes to building a network of support, bridging gaps, and strengthening the collective effort towards a more just and equitable housing landscape in Guelph.
“WE WILL DISMANTLE” Intersecting Injustices Art Installation
Time: Saturday and Sunday, 10:00AM-5:00PM
Open when there is no other workshop occurring in the same space.
Location: University Centre, Room 442
Set out on a transformative journey at our housing and food justice symposium through an interactive art installation that invites you to confront the intersections of oppression. Spend moments reflecting on the racialization and feminization of poverty. Explore the unique challenges faced by persons with disabilities, trans and queer individuals in the realm of poverty. Linger at the intersections and stir up your conviction to act for change. Our installation is a canvas for community commitments – draft manifestos declaring solidarity and a dedication to dismantling oppressive systems perpetuating housing and food injustice. You’re not just an observer; you’re a co-creator of change. Contribute your declarations, fostering a collective voice against oppression. Together, let’s inspire meaningful commitments to drive tangible change, fostering a future where housing and food justice prevail for all. Your contribution is a step toward a more equitable and compassionate world.