Gwynne Dyer will lecture on Wednesday February 26 as part of Middle East Week
UW RELEASE – 2014/020
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – (Friday, February 14), 2014
WINNIPEG, MB – Independent journalist and historian Gwynne Dyer will be among guests on campus for The University of Winnipeg’s annual exploration of the Middle East, taking place from February 24 – 27, 2014. The region is a hub of international trade, and the historic home to many world faiths. The Middle East is also at the heart of a number of conflicts that extend beyond its borders, with several nations in a state of flux.
“Syria is a tragedy, and the Egyptians threw their new democracy away, but the ‘Arab Spring’ was not a waste of everybody’s time,” says Dyer, who will be lecturing on the result of non-violent protests held in recent years. “There are several Arab democracies where until recently there were none – and more importantly, the idea that people have rights is alive and kicking, especially among the young. It will not go away again.”
UWinnipeg’s Middle East Week intends to promote dialogue, and further understanding of this multifaceted and historically-rich region of the world. All events are open to the public.
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
Film Screening: Two Sided Story | Monday February 24, 2014, 12:30 pm – 1:30 pm
Tor Ben Mayor’s documentary follows real people from both sides of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, as they meet to hear each other’s perspective in order to move toward reconciliation.
Location: Convocation Hall
Admission: Free
Film Screening: A Universal Language | Tuesday February 25, 2014, 12 pm – 1 pm
Convocation Hall – Free
Director Igal Hecht documents as Canadian comedians embark on an uncensored stand-up tour of Israel, bridging a cultural divide with the universal language of humour.
Location: Convocation Hall
Admission: Free
El Tassi Lecture Series: “The Doubtful Triumph of Non-Violence in the Middle East” by Gwynne Dyer | Wednesday February 26, 2014, 7 pm
Location: Eckhardt-Gramatté Hall
Admission: Free
“For the Sake of the City” Multifaith Leadership Breakfast with Special Guest: Winnipeg Police Chief Devon Clunis | Thursday February 27, 2014, 7:30 am – 9 am
Location: Convocation Hall
Admission: $25.00, tickets available via www.manitobamultifaithcouncil.ca
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MEDIA CONTACT
Megan Benedictson, Communications Officer, The University of Winnipeg
P: 204.988.7129, E: me.benedictson@uwinnipeg.ca
