Creating Art for a Cause

By Philip Sykes

If you noticed an abundance of red ribbons around campus on Monday, you may have been left slightly confused at their purpose and message. 

The symbolic ribbons were in fact a part of the debut of SCU Presents Arts for Social Justice, a new program on campus which, according to ASJ's website, will "provide opportunities to bring together artists, students and the community to collaborate, explore, develop and present art that will affect change in our global community."

The program integrates the arts and social justice and involves several other departments concerned with social change, such as Communications, Theatre and Dance, the Wellness Center and Campus Ministry. 

Arts for Social Justice is also actively involved in several of the student groups and clubs around campus that also strive to promote social change.

According to Darlene Macanan, Community Relations Manager at SCU Presents, the goal of the program is to "raise awareness, consciously engage students in human issues, and to understand social and cultural differences through the lens of the arts, as well as fostering dialogue and action in the community."

Part of the kick-off for ASJ that took place at the beginning of the week was in conjunction with the global movement One Billion Rising, which aims to end violence and abuse against women and girls.

Currently many departments and student clubs are working with ASJ to raise awareness for the One Billion Rising movement, as well as planning future events for the group. 

If you want to stay in the loop about upcoming arts events on campus, the Fine Arts Support Team will be tabling in Benson Memorial Center and around campus to provide information.