Multiculturalism debate happening this afternoon at Algoma U

NEWS RELEASE

ALGOMA UNIVERSITY

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Today, members from Algoma University’s Political Science program will participate in the 32nd bi-annual CanAm Exchange with Lake Superior State University (LSSU) students.

The CanAm Exchange will commence at 2 p.m. in the Doc Brown Lounge on the University’s campus.

For over 30 years, Algoma U and LSSU students have been travelling back and forth across the border to discuss and debate issues pertinent to Canadians and Americans.

The event on Friday will examine whether or not Western states are doing enough to accommodate and/or integrate religious, cultural, and ethnic minorities; how important multiculturalism is as a policy or approach; and how Canada and the United States should respond to Russian policy in Ukraine.

In the past, topics discussed have included acid rain, nuclear war, Aboriginal rights, the invasion of Iraq, gun control, the United Nations, the North American Free Trade Agreement, and mass surveillance for security agencies.

Over 86 issues have been debated.

The exchange allows Canadian and American students and faculty to gain an improved perspective on the challenges faced and approaches taken by neighbouring countries on domestic and international issues.

For both, the border becomes an experienced-based vehicle of learning, since both countries have different habits, emotions, and ways of thinking, which are often unacknowledged by the other party.

“I'm a firm believer in exposing students to as many varied ideas and viewpoints as possible, to add to their knowledge base and conceptual toolbox. The CanAm Exchange offers just such an opportunity because it brings together students from not only the two Saults, but from other parts of Ontario, Michigan, and the world, and faculty that approach the study of politics (and law) in markedly different ways,” said Dr. Neil Cruickshank, Assistant Professor in the Department of Law and Politics at Algoma University.

The exchange was first organized in 1983, through Algoma U’s Professors Don Jackson and Terry Ross, as well as LSSU’s Professor Gary Johnson.

The event usually hosts 20-50 students.

About Algoma University

Algoma University offers a wide variety of liberal arts and sciences degree options including programs in Psychology, Computer Science, Business Administration, Fine Arts, Community Economic & Social Development, and Biology in Sault Ste. Marie, Brampton, St. Thomas, and Timmins.

As a partner with Shingwauk Kinoomaage Gamig, Algoma U is committed to respecting Anishinaabe knowledge and culture. To learn more about Algoma University, visit www.algomau.ca.

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