PAIR Symposium: Black And Free Edition

What does freedom look like across history, health care, the arts, technology and innovation?

This question will guide three days of conversation exploring Blackness and freedom, bringing together PAIR members, the University of Waterloo community, partners and guests to share ideas, build relationships and envision transformative futures.

From history and health care to the arts, technology and innovation, the program invites participants to consider how Blackness and freedom inform research, creative practice and everyday life.

What to expect

• Keynote presentations featuring Chereda Grannum, Reclaiming our Atlantic Destiny (R.O.A.D),  Dr. Naila Keleta-Mae, on her research-creation project Black And Free, and Dr. Richard Norman on his new book, (re)Pebbling: A Story of Blackness and Curling, 

• Roundtable discussions that bring different perspectives into conversation.

• Interactive workshops that create space for shared learning and exploration.

• Opportunities to connect across disciplines, generations and communities

• Other Symposium Features:

  • Black and Free exhibition – featuring Senate Room set design by Nadine Grant and artwork by Dr. Naila Keleta-Mae 

  • Book Fair – featuring books for sale by symposium authors, 

  • Speaker's Corner – share your stories, reflections, and ideas,

  • WStore Pop-up Store - get your Black at Waterloo merchandise to support the Black Student Opportunities Fund

Be part of the conversation

Whether you’re engaged in research, creative work, community partnerships or simply curious about the questions at the heart of the symposium, you’re invited to take part and join researchers, the University of Waterloo community, partners and guests for three days of conversation, learning and connection centred on Blackness and freedom.

Join us | November 3–5, 2026

In Person:
Ira G. Needles Hall (NH), 3rd Floor
University of Waterloo
200 University Avenue West, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1

For directions, please refer to Google Maps – Directions to Needles Hall or University of Waterloo Campus Map. Parking options, rates, and payment information are available at:UW Visitor Parking

Attend Virtually:
Click here to join the live Zoom stream. Please note that the stream is only available during active programming (except Day. 2's programming, please see below for more information)