An upcoming University of Wisconsin Oshkosh multimedia event will challenge visitors’ ideas and perceptions of oppression.

The third-annual Tunnel of Oppression, comprised of a series of interactive scenarios, will raise awareness of the many forms of oppression in society, including racism, sexism, heterosexism and genocide. Event coordinators hope participants will walk away with a deeper understanding of how their words and actions affect others.

Tours will take place 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and 4 to 7 p.m. Monday, Nov. 9, and 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. and 5 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 10, in the ballroom of Reeve Memorial Union. The event is open to the members of the campus community.

“The Tunnel of Oppression has been an excellent way to build awareness about diverse topics here on campus,” said Theresa Schneider, a junior elementary and special education major. “From participating in a tour and volunteering, I learned that educating yourself is the first step in making a difference.”

The event is sponsored by the Residence Life department, United Students in Residence Halls, CARE/MenCARE, Counseling Center, Hmong Student Union, Multicultural Education Center, Rainbow Alliance of H.O.P.E., Student Social Work Association and the Women’s Advocacy Council.

In addition to the Tunnel of Oppression, several campus organizations and community agencies will be on hand to share more information about taking a stand against oppression.

“The main objective of the Tunnel of Oppression is to build awareness. However, we also want participants to walk away feeling like there is hope and that there are steps we as individuals can take to fight for equality among us all,” said Alicia Knipp, diversity education leadership development specialist in the Residence Life department.

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