A student-organized weekend about multiculturalism, centered on the theme of freedom, brought together students and members of the community March 5-7 for demonstrations, workshops, and a keynote address by Vagina Monologues author Eve Ensler (pictured above, right).

This is the second year of S.H.O.U.T!—a reincarnation of the Diversity Conference first organized by Colby students in 2001. “The point of S.H.O.U.T! was really to spark discussion about underrepresented viewpoints and issues,” said Pamela Colon ’09, who helped found the event last year.

S.H.O.U.T! (Speaking, Hearing, Opening Up Together!) kicked off with demonstrations in Cotter Union—from Aaron Kaye ’11 breaking wooden boards to the Dynasty Step Team’s (picture above, left) rhythmic performance.

On Friday Ensler spoke about her work in the Democratic Republic of Congo and urged the audience to take action on violence against women and girls.

Activities on Saturday included workshops on freedom of speech, religion, and more—giving students an opportunity to talk to their peers about issues relating to this year’s theme and what it meant to them on an individual level.

In the afternoon students participated in activities to learn about cultures through cooking, martial arts, salsa dancing, step dancing, and more. “It was so much fun because it’s such a group effort,” said Amelia Fogg ’11 about the Taiko drumming workshop.

The Pugh Community Board is planning to continue the conversation spurred by S.H.O.U.T! with many other activities including discussion forums, film screenings, and guest speakers.