Congress weekly #1

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Well, hello there! A very warm welcome to the first iteration of Congress weekly: the amuse-bouche for all things Congress. Over the coming weeks, we’ll be unearthing the very best of Congress’ offerings, ensuring you enjoy your experience to the fullest, as well as important trip planning reminders that will make your visit seamless. Be sure to stick around – there is so much to discover! 

This Land Acknowledgement… 

By Ruth Green, Associate Professor, School of Social Work at York University.   

A Land Acknowledgement or Territorial Statement is a beginning step in understanding the occupation of Indigenous Lands. It is not where responsibilities end... So, when you gather at York this spring, will you listen to or read the Land Acknowledgement with feeling, commitment and awareness? Will you hear how we wrote these words with intention and responsibility? 

Read about deepening your experience of Land Acknowledgments in Dr. Green’s blog. 

In preparation for your Congress visit, we recommend reviewing the Indigenous protocols for Congress 2023. 

SSHRC announces finalists in 2023 Storytellers Challenge 

The Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada (SSHRC) announced the Top 25 finalists for its 2023 Storytellers Challenge. The annual competition, now in its 10th edition, challenges postsecondary students across the country to inspire audiences with a research story—in up to 300 words or three minutes—of how SSHRC-funded research is making a difference in the lives of Canadians. This year's Top 25 Storytellers represent postsecondary institutions throughout Canada and were chosen from among nearly 200 applicants. Learn more. 

See the 25 finalists present at the SSHRC Storytellers Showcase at Congress and attend the May 29 Big Thinking lecture ‘Seeds of the future’ for the Final Five winners reveal! 

Book your stay and away 

Now that you’ve registered, it’s important to ensure your accommodation and travel are sorted ahead of time. Thankfully, we provide a host of hotel recommendations, with special Congress discounts, as well as special offers on travel and transport. 

Note, the last day to book Congress accommodations through special rates is April 26. View the list of Congress partner hotels and book today.   

Chart your course to York University from major transport hubs in Toronto, and secure travel with discount codes.  

Rediscover Reckonings & Re-Imaginings 

As we approach Earth Day, reconnect with this year’s Congress theme which focuses on new reckonings for how to live in non-hierarchical relationships that respect our human differences, while protecting the environment we depend on. The logo, "Seed for Tomorrow" illustrates the Congress theme’s focus on the intersections of racial and climate justice and the invitation to work collaboratively to care for each other and the environment. Discover the story behind this year’s Congress theme and logo.  

Programming at York University will reflect a deepened understanding of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. See how the theme will come to life at York University by watching the Welcome to Congress video.  

Sustainability measures at Congress 

Over the coming weeks we will be exploring in-depth sustainability measures at York University and how we can each contribute. You can read about York’s approach by visiting the Local amenities section of Plan your trip. 

Open events spotlight: keeping it green 

In anticipation of Earth Day, add some of these climate-centred events to your calendar: 

This event is made possible thanks to the generosity of the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC).