Social Justice, Economic Empowerment, and Arts Education

This discussion is a satellite session of the European League of Institutes of Art (ELIA) annual Leadership conference, taking place this year in Manchester, UK. Join Faculty of Fine Arts Dean Annie Gérin in a discussion responding to a provocation delivered by special guest Amneh Shaikh-Farooqui (Pakistan).

By fostering inclusive narratives and providing a platform for underrepresented communities, the arts are believed to be a strong catalyst for social justice. Artistic communities contribute to economic empowerment by creating opportunities for individuals to express their creativity, to function autonomously and collectively in self-organised ways, and to generate income through pathways that may be more ethical or equitable in their view.

What role can and should Higher Arts Education play in paving the way for a more inclusive, accessible, and prosperous future for all? Or is this narrative just another story from the echo chamber? Join us as we seek to answer these questions and more!

How can you participate? Join us in person or online by registering for the Zoom Meeting or watching live on YouTube.

Have questions? Send them to info.4@concordia.ca

Amneh Shaikh-Farooqui, Pakistan 

Development practitioner, livelihoods & value chain specialist with deep interest in arts and culture-based solutions to disenfranchisement, Amneh Shaikh-Farooqui leverages power of indigenous heritage, narrative making as a tool for social change. Amneh has been affiliated with the not-for-profit sector in Pakistan for 18 years with experience in gender mainstreaming, economic empowerment and environmental initiatives. Her body of work lies at the intersection of social justice, gender equality, sustainability, decolonization, and fashion.