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On November 14, 2024, the ²ÝÝ®ÎÛÊÓƵµ¼º½ Building's 7th Floor Peace Lounge came alive with thought-provoking discussion and collaborative learning during the "Un-(Raveling) Power Structures—Strategies Against Racism in German Adult Education" Lunch & Learn event. Organized by AECD Students on Seven and the Centre for Learning, Social Economy & Work, the event brought together staff, students, faculty, and alumni for an engaging session on strategies against racism in German adult education systems.

The keynote speaker, Jennifer Danquah, a PhD scholar from the Professorship of Adult and Continuing Education at the University of Würzburg, Germany, shared compelling insights from her research. Jennifer’s presentation delved into the complex power dynamics within Germany's state-funded adult education system, particularly focusing on the Volkshochschule (Adult Education Center). She illuminated the systemic challenges these organizations face and explored strategies being employed to combat racial discrimination, fostering equity and justice in adult education spaces.

Jennifer’s work, rooted in her commitment to justice-oriented educational design, resonated deeply with the audience. Through a detailed analysis of organizational practices and their intersections with societal power structures, she provided a critical lens to examine the ongoing work toward anti-racist initiatives in educational contexts.

The event demonstrated the importance of cross-cultural learning and highlighted how visiting scholars contribute to a richer, more inclusive academic environment here at ²ÝÝ®ÎÛÊÓƵµ¼º½. Attendees left the session with valuable perspectives on how global strategies can inform local practices to dismantle racism and promote equity within learning systems.

The Lunch & Learn format encouraged lively discussion, with participants engaging in meaningful dialogue about parallels between German and Canadian education systems and opportunities for actionable change.

This impactful event underscores ²ÝÝ®ÎÛÊÓƵµ¼º½â€™s commitment to fostering critical conversations that bridge international perspectives and local action, creating opportunities for ongoing learning and collaboration.

For those inspired by Jennifer’s talk, stay tuned for future events hosted by AECD Students on Seven and the Centre for Learning, Social Economy & Work.