Waterloo at the Intersections: On Belonging submissions

“I dreamed about a culture of belonging. I still dream that dream. I contemplate what our lives would be like if we knew how to cultivate awareness, to live mindfully, peacefully; if we learned habits of being that would bring us closer together, that would help us build beloved community.” – bell hooks

Recently, there has been a marked shift in how folks have been able to gather in community – and on the University of Waterloo campus. As we reckon with the ongoing impact and grief of the pandemic, in addition to a myriad of social issues that were amplified after long being ignored and silenced, a question that comes to mind is this: how has the experience of community shifted for you, for me, for us?

With the purpose of strengthening sustainable and diverse communities, we invite students and community members to take part in Waterloo @ the Intersections: On Belonging.

Participants will be able to share their thoughts on belonging in the format of their choice, for 10 minutes on stage. Submissions can include, but are not limited to:

• poetry reading,
• performance of dance or song,
• a short keynote or personal narrative,
• and more.

We invite you to share your thoughts on belonging in whatever way is most authentic to you. We’ve left the title of this event short and nondescript, with the intention of wanting to hear a variety of thoughts and experiences about belonging. We hope you’ll join us in sharing with the University of Waterloo campus community, as we seek to strengthen and build community.  

Application details

• Submit your proposal below by March 6 at 11:59 p.m.
• The first 50 applicants will receive $20 on their Watcard in recognition of their efforts. 
• Six students will be chosen for the event. You will hear back by March 4 if you have been chosen to perform. 

Event details

• Event dress rehearsal: March 21, 5 to 8 p.m.
• Event date: March 22, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. (doors at 6 p.m.)
• Location: Black and Gold Room, Student Life Centre
• Selected performers will receive $210 in recognition of their participation ($35 per hour for six hours)

This event will be live streamed and may be made available on Waterloo's public social media channels following the event. If this is a barrier for your participation, please connect with Jazz Fitzgerald.