Next week is Identity Week, celebrating the diversity of the Syracuse University community. Through events and initiated conversations, the Barnes Center at The Arch, its peer educators and other cross-campus partners hope to encourage recognition of self-perceived identity, assigned identity and the combination of factors that contribute to both.
“Aspects of one’s identity do not act in silos, often identities are multifaceted. Identity Week is a conversation catalyst surrounding topics of identity and intersectionality, while also hosting a safe space for self-expression and education,” says Izmailia Sougoufara ’20, Barnes Center at The Arch mental health peer educator. “Self-understanding builds a foundation for connecting with others. It provides the opportunity to be aware that someone’s experience, which for a multitude of reasons, may be very different from yours.”
Throughout the week, all are invited to explore the identity-based cross campus resources. Follow @BeWellSU for clues and other’s Identity Exploration posts. Additionally, individuals will earn a ticket for every Identity Week event attended for the chance to win free prizes. Winners will be announced at Soul Bounce!
Events include:
#IdentityChatSU
On Tuesday, Jan. 21, from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m., all members of the campus community are invited to join @BeWellSU on Twitter as the Barnes Center at The Arch peer educators answer questions to help acknowledge and appreciate our differences.
SoulTalk: Identity
On Thursday, Jan. 23, from 7 to 8 p.m. in the Barnes Center at The Arch third-floor Meditation Room, join the peer educators for SoulTalk, a weekly, student-led conversation surrounding life’s big questions. This week’s theme is identity. Light refreshments will be provided.
Health Hub
Join the peer educators at the Health Hub on Friday, Jan. 24, from 10 a.m. to noon in the Life Sciences Complex, for a quick activity and to learn more about campus resources.
Mix It Up
Build a diverse community with Mix It Up, on Friday, Jan. 24, from 5 to 7 p.m. in the Center for International Services. Share a meal, meet new people and have open dialogue around inter-cultural identity.
Soul Bounce!
Celebrate Identity Week with a roller-skating party on Friday, Jan. 24, from 8:30-11 p.m. in the Barnes Center at The Arch Multi-Activity Sport Court (MAC Court). Enjoy great music and company. An SU I.D. is required to participate. Roller skates will be provided.
For more information or to request accommodations, contact Gwyn Esty-Kendall, Barnes Center at The Arch mental health promotion specialist, at grestyke@syr.edu or call 315.443.8000.
