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Social activist Tia Oso to present 2018 Mandela Social Justice Day keynote address

Speech to cap full day of social justice and activism activities

January 24, 2018

Tia Oso, director of impact at Revolve Impact and a dynamic and experienced social justice leader, will present the keynote address for the University of Southern Indiana's 2018 Nelson Mandela Social Justice Day at 6 p.m. Wednesday, February 21 in Carter Hall located in University Center West. Oso's address, "Chaos or Community: The Persistent Question in Achieving Racial Progress and Human Rights," is free and open to the public.

Oso is a nationally respected organizer, strategist, and emerging leader on issues of racial equity, migrant rights and social justice. She has worked with #SayHerName and #BlackLivesMatter organizations. A dynamic leader and political strategist with over 15 years of grassroots organizing experience, Oso is an experienced community engagement professional specializing in social change initiatives such as building multi-racial and cross-cultural coalitions and strategic planning for grassroots community development. Her theory of change is firmly rooted in the ability of everyday people to become change-makers for social and economic justice. Oso's passion for human rights and witty enthusiasm, move and inspire audiences to take action and make a difference in the world around them.

In her previous work with the Black Alliance for Just Immigration (BAJI), Oso led African American and Black immigrant communities in developing strategies for progressive wins in racial justice and migrant rights, and building multiracial coalitions. Her work in immigrant rights opened doors for greater solidarity and strengthening relationships internationally among people of African descent in grassroots movements and advocacy throughout the diaspora.

The keynote address is the culmination of a full day of activities meant to raise dialogue at USI around current issues of human and civil rights, public service, and activism. Additional events include "Immigration Explained," featuring a panel of experts discussing and answering questions on immigration, and "Activism 101," a workshop on creating change through social action. All events are open to the public as space is available. Previous keynote speakers in this series include Dr. Cornel West and Tim Wise. A full list of activities can be found on the USI website at USI.edu/liberal-arts/special-programs/mandela-social-justice-day/.

This event is sponsored by the USI College of Liberal Arts, College of Nursing and Health Professions, Multicultural Center, Counseling Center and the Office of Housing and Residence Life. For more information, contact Dr. Sakina Hughes, assistant professor of History and chair of the Mandela Social Justice Committee, at shughes1@usi.edu.

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