Atlas Week Events
Welcome to the events page for Saint Louis University’s 25th Annual Sam and Marilyn Fox Atlas Week, April 6-12, 2025. This year’s theme, "From Inequality to Justice: Transforming Global Health through Social Change," highlights the critical intersection of global health and social justice, inspiring deeper discussions and actionable solutions to today’s challenges.
As part of the Atlas Program, which celebrates SLU's commitment to international education and service, Atlas Week fosters awareness and action on global issues in alignment with our Jesuit values. Stay tuned for a full schedule of events, and join us in shaping this transformative week.
2025 Schedule
April 6-12
Atlas Passport Distribution
Sunday, April 6, 2025
24th Annual Atlas Week Kick-Off Event
5 - 7 p.m.
Center for Global Citizenship
Join us for the official opening event of Atlas Week 2025! Come and eat food representative
of cultures around the globe and enjoy live music and cultural dance performances.
Have fun while playing world trivia and participate in raffle prizes. This event is
free and open to everyone.
Monday, April 7, 2025
Public Health At SLU: Shaping Global Change Through Education
11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Busch Student Center North Lobby
Public health is at the forefront of addressing social injustices and health disparities
worldwide. At SLU, undergraduate students can explore global health challenges, from
infectious disease outbreaks and environmental health threats to maternal and child
health inequities. Through interdisciplinary coursework, hands-on field experiences,
and international study opportunities, students gain the knowledge and skills to drive
meaningful change in communities across the world.
This tabling event will highlight the various academic pathways available within our specific college at SLU, such as our majors in public health, health management, and biostatistics, along with our minors in public health and health management and opportunities for global health experiences and service-learning trips.
We invite all prospective students and those curious about public health to stop by the BSC on April 7, 8 and 10, ask questions, and learn how studying public health at SLU can be a pathway to global health impact.
Sponsored by the College for Public Health and Social Justice
Healthcare Talent: Breaking Barriers & Bridging Gaps
Noon - 1 p.m.
Cook Hall 234
Join us during ATLAS Week for "Healthcare Talent: Breaking Barriers & Bridging Gaps,"
a dynamic panel discussion dedicated to exploring and addressing global challenges
in healthcare talent management.
Recent research highlights a disturbing connection: nations with significant health care talent deficits experience higher rates of both all-cause and specific-cause mortality (Yan, Qin, et al., 2023). At the same time, while women are 70% of the global health and social workforce, they occupy only 25% of senior roles (Gender Equity Hub, 2020). This disparity is compounded by entrenched glass ceilings, where predominantly male decision-making bodies contribute to ongoing talent loss, particularly among female professionals.
Our panelists will delve into:
- The Mortality-Talent Nexus: Examining how deficits in healthcare talent hinder service delivery and are closely linked to increased mortality rates.
- Gender Disparities in Leadership: Analyzing the systemic underrepresentation of women in senior roles, despite their significant contributions at all levels of healthcare.
- Breaking the Glass Ceiling: Discussing how supermajority male decision-making bodies exacerbate talent loss and proposing strategies to foster more inclusive leadership.
The session is structured to encourage active participation. Following expert presentations, the panel discussion will open to an interactive Q&A session, allowing attendees to engage directly with thought leaders and ask questions about the challenges and potential solutions.
Attendees will gain actionable insights into innovative strategies for overcoming global health talent deficits and gender inequities. Whether you are a student, professional, or policymaker, this event offers a unique opportunity to network, learn, and mobilize around sustainable reforms in healthcare talent management.
For additional details and resources on these critical issues, please visit these sources from the World Health Organization. Together, we can ignite social action and drive systemic changes needed to build a more equitable and effective global healthcare system.
Novel Diagnostics, Vaccines, And Therapeutics For Pandemics: A Call For Proportionality By Professor Michael Sinha
Noon
Scott Hall 1030
Please join the Center for International and Comparative Law for our official SLU
LAW Atlas Week Distinguished International Law Speaker Event. Professor Michael Sinha
will present, "Novel Diagnostics, Vaccines, and Therapeutics for Pandemics: A Call
for Proportionality ."
Many regional and constitutional courts invoke balancing as a method in adjudication of conflicting values, including economic, human and fundamental rights issues. The so-called "proportionality principle“ requires that a conflict-solving process assesses the abstract value of the colliding rights vis-a-vis the concrete intensity of the impact on each party by the relevant action. The primary goal is then to find a sound balance wherein colliding rights can still be exercised to the greatest possible extent, even though they might affect each other. One method courts have applied in this context attempts to achieve a so-called "practical concordance“ between colliding fundamental rights. This is assessed within the framework of the principle of proportionality. Although different takes on the proportionality principle exist throughout Europe, the German approach has been particularly influential.
Professor Sinha will introduce the application of proportionality to the evidence-based development, manufacture, and distribution of novel diagnostics, vaccines, and therapeutics against emerging infectious disease pandemics, using lessons from the COVID-19 experience as a guide. He will weigh the right to access safe and effective diagnostics, vaccines, and therapeutics during pandemics against the intellectual property and investment-related rights of their inventors, rights that may detrimentally affect volume, distribution and cost of such products. In normal circumstances, IP rights may stand paramount; yet in times of dire need, such as pandemics, he argues for standards that more closely align with principles of proportionality.
Sponsored by the Center for International and Comparative Law.
Bridging Smiles And Bridging Gaps In The 21st Century
Noon - 1 p.m.
Dreiling Marshall Hall 2031
Sponsored by CADE
Panel Discussion: Art, History, And The Underground Railroad Featuring Muralist Dominic Chambers and Historian Dorris Keeven-Franke
Noon - 1 p.m.
Pius Library, 2nd Floor Gallery at Saint Louis University
As part of Atlas Week at SLU, please join us for a panel discussion on the intersection
of art, history, and literature. Acclaimed muralist Dominic Chambers will discuss
his Underground Railroad-themed mural on Searls Hall, inspired by Colson Whitehead’s
Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, The Underground Railroad, this year’s SLU Campus Read
selection.
Joining him is historian Dorris Keeven-Franke, an expert on Missouri’s Underground Railroad history and executive director of the Missouri Germans Consortium. Her work preserves the stories of enslaved people seeking freedom and the abolitionists who aided them.
Co-sponsored by SLU’s Department of Visual and Performing Arts, Common Core, St. Louis Literary Award Programs, and the Kranzberg Arts Foundation, this public discussion will explore how Whitehead’s novel and Chambers’ art contribute to historical memory and artistic expression.
A reception with food and drinks, sponsored by the core, will follow.
Free and open to the public — join us for this thought-provoking event!
Sponsored by the St. Louis Literary Award Programs
American Diplomacy Under Trump: From Russia To The Middle East To Latin America And Asia
12:30 - 2 p.m.
Busch Student Center 251
The Department of Political Science presents a panel of four professors who teach
international studies and area studies - Russia, the Middle East, Latin America and
Asia. The professors are J.D. Bowen, associate professor of political science; Ellen
Carnaghan, professor of political science; 3 Nori Katagiri, professor of political
science; and Matthew Nanes, associate professor of political science. We will speak
about many important topics of American diplomacy under President Trump - global health,
national security and international security, economy, and partnerships with allies
and friends.
Political Science Faculty Information
Sponsored by the Department of Political Science
Diversified Health And Wellness
1:30 - 2:30 p.m.
Busch Student Center North Lobby
Refugee Simulation: Walk A Mile In My Shoes
4 - 5 p.m.
Center For Global Citizenship Auditorium
Today, over 120 million people are displaced around the world. While it is impossible
to fully comprehend what it is like to be forced from your home and live as a refugee,
Jesuit Refugee Service/USA invites you to participate in their Walk a Mile in My Shoes
Refugee Awareness Exercise.
This community engagement event allows individuals and communities to raise awareness by pausing and experiencing, if only vicariously and for a few moments, the frustrations, disappointments and hopes that refugees around the world face. Gather your family, friends, classmates, or fellow parishioners and see what it might be like to Walk a Mile in a refugee’s shoes.
Sponsored by the Center for Social Action
Disability Unfiltered: Disability And Stigma
4 - 5 p.m.
Cook Hall Auditorium
Join us for an eye-opening event that explores the stigma surrounding disability and
the ongoing challenges of housing inaccessibility due to a lack of ADA compliance.
Through personal narratives, expert insights, and interactive discussions, we will
shed light on the barriers individuals with disabilities face when seeking accessible
and equitable housing. Let’s work together to raise awareness, challenge misconceptions,
and advocate for inclusive housing policies that ensure equal opportunities for all.
Sponsored by the Marshall Apartments
Healing Across Borders: Advancing Global Health In Vietnam
4 - 5 p.m.
Busch Student Center 251
This event will explore the evolving landscape of healthcare in Vietnam, and the impact
of social and economic factors on public health. Our event speaker, Phuong Nguyen,
M.D., will share his experience as an orthopedic surgeon, and how he has witnessed
the changes and struggles within Vietnam in regards to health and medicine.
Sponsored by the Vietnamese Student Association
South Asian Resilience Against Domestic Violence
5 - 6 p.m.
Busch Student Center 254
Domestic violence remains a pressing issue within South Asian communities, often compounded
by cultural stigmas, familial expectations, and immigration-related vulnerabilities.
Unbreakable: South Asian Resilience Against Domestic Violence seeks to shed light
on the challenges faced by South Asian survivors while highlighting their strength,
perseverance, and the resources available to support them.
The conversation will focus on cultural barriers to seeking help, legal and social support systems, and stories of resilience from survivors who have rebuilt their lives. This event includes a lecture from Mehreen Patel and Q&A discussion from the guest speakers.
Sponsored by Women and Gender Studies
Cultural Food Night
5 - 6 p.m.
Center For Global Citizenship Auditorium
This cultural food night allows students to explore diverse cultures through food
tastings, highlighting the role of cultural understanding in addressing global health
disparities and fostering social change.
Sponsored by Student Government Association
Mental Health On The College Campus: A Post-Pandemic Community Dialogue
5 - 7 p.m.
Zoom Meeting Id: 910 0520 9585
This participatory session will offer students, faculty, and staff an opportunity
to engage in reflection and community dialogue on their experiences throughout the
COVID pandemic and post-pandemic in terms of mental health and well-being. Using an
un-conference format, questions participants may explore include: What practices or
strategies did you learn during the pandemic that you adopt now to promote mental
well-being? What new ideas might universities try to support today’s students, faculty,
and staff’s mental health?
Panel speakers include:
- Shelley Price-Williams, Ph.D.
- Whitney Linsenmeyer, Ph.D.
- Knieba Jones-Johnson
Sana Sana
5:30 - 6:30 p.m.
Busch Student Center 251
This event will teach students about Latino holistic wellness and cultural traditions.
This includes herbs, teas, and sayings that are shared when ill or injured. Join us
for learning, healing, and fun treats and snacks!
Sponsored by OASIS
Tuesday, April 8, 2025
Covid-19: How The Pandemic Affected Farmers And Their Communities
11 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
Busch Student Center North Lobby
Taste of India
11 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
Center For Global Citizenship Seminar Room 124A
The event includes a presentation followed by a Q&A session that covers the main food
regions of India — North, South, East, and West — and dishes like biryani, dosas,
and seafood. Participants can try food samples representative of these regions. Come
learn more about the rich and varied food culture of India.
Public Health At Slu: Shaping Global Change Through Education
11 a.m. - 1 pm
Busch Student Center North Lobby
Public health is at the forefront of addressing social injustices and health disparities
worldwide. At SLU, undergraduate students can explore global health challenges, from
infectious disease outbreaks and environmental health threats to maternal and child
health inequities. Through interdisciplinary coursework, hands-on field experiences,
and international study opportunities, students gain the knowledge and skills to drive
meaningful change in communities across the world.
This tabling event will highlight the various academic pathways available within our specific college at SLU, such as our majors in public health, health management, and biostatistics, along with our minors in public health and health management and opportunities for global health experiences and service-learning trips.
We invite all prospective students and those curious about public health to stop by the BSC on April 7, 8 and 10, ask questions, and learn how studying public health at SLU can be a pathway to global health impact.
Sponsored by the College for Public Health and Social Justice
Act! Speak! Build!
2 - 3:15 p.m.
Busch Student Center 254
Habitat for Humanity's Act! Speak! Build! event aims to combine the organization's
overarching theme of affordable housing with Atlas Week's theme of addressing inequality
and striving for social change. This will be achieved through writing letters to Missouri's
legislature to advocate for safer and more affordable housing within the St. Louis
metro area. Additionally, we plan to present on Habitat for Humanity's mission and
the housing crisis in St. Louis.
Sponsored by Habitat for Humanity
Get Your Craft On: Creating Language Landscapes
3 - 5 p.m.
Morrissey Hall 3200
The Language Resource Center is an academic support unit in the Department of Languages,
Literatures and Cultures. The LRC's mission is to enrich, enhance, and transform second
language and cultural learning, teaching and research at SLU. Operating at the intersection
of language pedagogy and instructional technology, the LRC provides vast resources
for teaching, learning, and researching world languages and cultures.
Join us to create a language map of our linguistically diverse SLU community with art and conversation! We will also have paint-by-stickers activity books of global landscapes and masterpieces. Our celebration of multilingualism positively impacts students' ability to gain cultural competency and follow SLU’s mission of educating global citizens. Relax and unwind with us at Morrissey 3200.
For more information, please visit bilingualbilliken.com for free tutoring services and access to our international book and film library.
Sponsored by the Department of Languages, Literatures and Cultures
Understanding Immigration
4 - 5 p.m.
Morrissey Hall 3400
This panel focuses on one of the most complex global challenges confronting us in
the 21st century: immigration. Faculty members in the departments of languages, literatures
and cultures; sociology and anthropology; and history will provide insights into current
policies, attitudes to immigrants, and immigration history in other countries outside
the U.S. The goal is to move from global to local — that is, to understand what is
happening in the U.S. and, most especially St Louis, by learning how other countries
are tackling the issue of immigration in recent times and by examining the current
situation in our area. The aim of this panel is to generate a space of creative energy
through education as a step to become better observers of our reality, and to be more
prepared for action and advocacy. Everyone in the University community is invited.
Sponsored by the departments of languages, literature and culture; sociology and anthropology; and history.
Immigration Vigil
5 - 6 p.m.
Clock Tower
Please join SLU students who have returned from U.S.-Mexico Border experiences over
spring break to remember people who died trying to navigate the U.S. immigration system.
The vigil will include information, shared stories, prayers and updates from the border.
Many people have died through a policy called Prevention through Deterrence, pushing
people into terrains without enough food, water or shelter. With changing immigration
pathways, it is expected that more people will begin to seek dangerous pathways to
migration. Some migrants cross two dangerous border lands, the U.S.-Mexico desert
and the jungle of the Darien Gap.
Sponsored by the Center for Social Action and Campus Ministry
Mexico’s Mestizo Culture: A Fusion Of Traditions
5 - 6 p.m.
Busch Student Center 251
This event explores Mexico’s mestizo culture, a blend of indigenous and Spanish influences
that shape the country’s identity, traditions, and daily life. This cultural fusion
is reflected in Mexico’s language, cuisine, music, and celebrations, making it a unique
and dynamic society. The relevance of this topic lies in understanding how mestizaje,
which means the merge of cultures, has shaped modern Mexico. By exploring its historical
roots, we can understand how cultural blending influences national identity, social
dynamics, and artistic expression.
The event will feature a panel discussion with native Mexicans that can explain how it plays a role in society and live demonstrations of mestizo traditions. Attendees will be able to engage in a Q&A session and sample traditional mestizo foods. This interactive format will provide a deeper appreciation of the complexities and beauty of Mexico’s mestizo heritage.
Public Health: From Past Lessons To Future Progress
5 - 6 p.m.
Busch Student Center 254
A gripping presentation highlighting how global public health has evolved and where
we as a society need to move in the future.
Resonating Joy: Celebrating Diversity Through Music & Art
5 - 7 p.m.
Busch Student Center Billiken Club and Grill
This event is centered around Black and queer joy here in St. Louis. Oftentimes, people
only hear about the issues that Black and queer people face but never see the joy
that the community experiences as well. This showcase is centered around Black and/or
queer artists in St. Louis who are addressing important issues within their music
and art, but this event is open to ALL. This would be similar to an open mic night
where people are encouraged to perform their music, poetry, or any other kind of artistic
expression.
If you want to learn more about the experiences of different folks in the St. Louis area, this would be a great event for you to attend! This event is meant to highlight important issues, while allowing people to showcase their talents and build community. This space is open to anyone who wants to learn and build community with others through a shared interest.
Air Pollution and Chinese Kite Flying
6 - 7 p.m.
Busch Student Center 254
Join the Chinese Language and Culture Club for a brief presentation on air pollution
and the history of kites before stepping outside to fly some yourself!
Sponsored by Chinese Language and Culture Club
Public Health Fair
6 - 8 p.m.
Busch Student Center 300 (St. Louis Room)
The Lions Club Public Health Fair is an engaging and educational event designed to
highlight key areas of growth and development in our healthcare system while connecting
students with valuable resources to improve community wellness and personal health.
This fair serves as an opportunity to inspire students to become active participants
in public health initiatives and to explore diverse ways they can contribute to the
well-being of their community. The event will begin with a keynote presentation by
Sangnam Ahn, Ph.D., an expert in public health, who will discuss evolving population
health management strategies and transformations in the healthcare system. His talk
will provide insight into current public health challenges and solutions, setting
the stage for the rest of the fair. Following the keynote, attendees can explore various
club and organization booths focused on public health while engaging in yoga and meditation
sessions that promote mental and physical well-being.
By the end of the fair, participants will leave with a greater awareness of public health issues, access to valuable resources, and practical strategies to improve their well-being and that of their community. The Lions Club Public Health Fair aims to empower students to actively shape a healthier future through education, engagement and hands-on experiences.
Sponsored by SLU’s Lions Club
Wednesday, April 9, 2025
Brazil And The Amazon: Environmental And Social Injustices
11 a.m. - Noon
Busch Student Center 254
This event is a presentation unpacking the historical, political, and economic forces driving deforestation in the Amazon, emphasizing the complex interplay between local practices and global market demands. Attendees will examine the roles of agribusiness, illegal mining, government policies, and international trade in shaping the Amazon’s future.
Following the presentation, a panel discussion featuring environmental activists, indigenous leaders, and policy experts who will share their firsthand perspectives on sustainable development, conservation efforts, and the protection of indigenous rights.
The event will conclude with an interactive Q&A session, where attendees can engage directly with speakers to explore potential solutions and discuss ways to advocate for sustainable policies. Participants will leave with a deeper understanding of the Amazon’s global significance and how they can take meaningful action.
Paint And Sip
11 a.m. - Noon
Busch Student Center 251B
Swing by for chill vibes and relaxation! Attendees can relax their minds as they paint
hopeful and inspiring messages that promote activism toward global health and other
social justice issues.
Global Knowledge Challenge
Noon - 1 p.m.
Busch Student Center North Lobby
The Global Knowledge Challenge will consist of games testing SLU student, faculty
and staff knowledge about the countries and cultures of SLU's international student
population! Challenges include a flag challenge, an international currency challenge,
and a language challenge. Come to test your global knowledge.
Sponsored by the Office of International Services
Access To Healthcare For Marginalized Communities
Noon - 1 p.m.
Busch Student Center 251A
This event will focus on the challenges that prevent certain groups, such as Indigenous
people, refugees, people living in rural areas, and low-income families, from getting
the healthcare they need. It will look at how money, social inequality, and government
systems make it harder for these groups to get proper medical care, and how this leads
to poor health and unfair outcomes. The event will include a detailed presentation
with facts, examples from real life, and ideas for solving these problems. Attendees
will also learn simple ways they can help improve health care for people in their
own communities and around the world.
Fulbright And Beyond: Fellowships For Teaching And Studying Abroad
1 p.m. - 2 p.m.
Busch Student Center 254
Rebecca Muich, Ph.D., from the Office of Competitive Fellowships and Scholarships,
will discuss opportunities to apply for fully funded experiences teaching English
or enrolling in graduate programs or language-immersive experiences overseas. She
will talk about the Fulbright Student Program, administered by the U.S. State Department,
and other prestigious opportunities to study critical languages, such as the Boren
Awards and Critical Language Scholarship. She will also provide information on awards
for graduate programs in the U.K., including the Rhodes Scholarship, Mitchell Scholarship,
Gates-Cambridge Scholarship, and the Marshall Scholarship. Learn which opportunities
could be a good fit for you, how to develop a strong application, how to ask for letters
of recommendation, and the timeline for specific awards.
Sponsored by the Office of Competitive Fellowships and Scholarships
Breaking Barriers To Food Security: A Community Food Drive
2 - 3 p.m.
Busch Student Center 251A
Food insecurity is a pressing global health issue that affects billions of individuals,
often stemming from economic instability and poverty. This event aims to raise awareness
about the devastating impact of food insecurity while actively contributing to the
solution by organizing a food drive.
This engaging and educational event will provide a platform for community members to learn about food insecurity, its causes, and how we can combat it together. Through an interactive and informative experience, participants will only gain knowledge and also take tangible action in supporting individuals and families in need.
Mapping Health Inequalities - From The Global To The Local
3 - 4 p.m.
Center For Global Citizenship Seminar Room 124A
Maps are powerful tools that construct and deconstruct knowledge about reality, which
is central to social change. Join us to explore the spatial dimensions of health inequalities,
resources, and risks at the global and local levels. We will discuss the use of mapping
to understand spatial and temporal trends in health and medicine, and how mapping
can inform health policy and community resources to support health equity and social
change. Attendees will then engage in a brief assessment of accessibility around campus
to create an interactive, online map. Students interested in how mapping and geographic
information science (GIS) can enrich their careers should attend!
Sponsored by the Department of Sociology and Anthropology
Breaking Stereotypes: Health And Resilience In The Middle East
4:30 - 5:30 p.m.
Cook Hall Atrium
The topic of this Atlas Week event is the intersection of global health inequities
and resilience in the Middle East, framed within the 2025 theme, "From Inequality
to Justice: Transforming Global Health through Social Change." This event will address
how systemic barriers and Orientalist narratives distort the lived realities of Middle
Eastern communities, with a focus on health challenges and resilience.
To deepen participants' understanding, the event will recreate the conditions of Gaza’s refugee camps through an immersive installation. This will include makeshift tents, limited food and water supplies, and basic resources like blankets, reflecting the daily scarcity many families face. Informational placards and videos will contextualize these challenges while highlighting local resilience, such as grassroots efforts to secure resources and provide care in the face of adversity.
To engage participants further, the event will include a cultural immersion workshop on traditional Middle Eastern health practices, such as herbal medicine and communal caregiving.
Through these elements, the event will emphasize the humanity, resilience, and ingenuity of Middle Eastern communities, challenging stereotypes and inspiring a deeper commitment to global justice.
Chronic Illness, Chronic Inequality: A Call For Justice In Global Health
5 - 6 p.m.
Zoom Link
"Chronic Disease Amid Chronic Poverty" will explore the intersection of long-term
health conditions and systemic poverty. This presentation, led by Nicholas Comninellis,
M.D., aligns with the broader ATLAS Week theme, "From Inequality to Justice: Transforming
Global Health through Social Change." Drawing from his extensive work in underserved
communities, Comninellis will highlight real-world examples of successful health interventions
and policy changes that have improved outcomes for vulnerable populations. Attendees
will learn how health care professionals, policymakers, and advocates can contribute
to a more just and equitable health system. Learn more about his work.
Sponsored by Public Health Club
Bridging The Gap: Supporting Underprivileged Youth In St. Louis
5 - 6 p.m.
Busch Student Center 254
SLU Rebound Learning Initiative is a student-led group on campus supporting underprivileged
students in St. Louis. Our goal is to empower students, through tutoring and mentorship,
to take an interest in their education, offering pathways to a brighter future. We
work with students facing homelessness, incarcerated youth, and youth on probation.
Join us for a panel of students sharing their experiences working with students who are incarcerated or homeless. We will share stories and experiences, and discuss the systemic issues associated with the struggles faced by our students. Ultimately, we will explore how those issues trickle into society and impact all facets of life.
Sponsored by SLU Rebound Learning Initiative
Beyond The Bazaars: Unpacking India’s Hunger Paradox
6 - 7 p.m.
Busch Student Center 251B
In India, street food vendors line the streets with an array of affordable and delicious
meals, creating the illusion of abundance. But this doesn’t show the reality that
millions of people struggle with food insecurity daily. Even though enough food is
available everywhere, access to it is unequal. In a nation that produces enough food
to feed its population, it fails to do so. Join ISA for an interactive presentation
that uncovers the paradox of food abundance versus food insecurity in India. As participants
enjoy a variety of Indian street food, they will be informed and invited to reflect
the daily struggles of individuals across various socioeconomic settings.
Sponsored by the Indian Students Association
"We Keep Us Safe:" OneWorld X CSA Protest Safety Workshop
6 - 8 p.m.
Busch Student Center 254
“Who keeps us safe? We keep us safe!” This is a chant heard throughout the 2020 Black
Lives Matter protests. It expresses the power of marching as a collective body; when
we come together and trust in our united strength, we keep each other safe. As such,
OneWorld Magazine and the Center for Social Action have partnered to put on an informational
workshop on protesting. The workshop will focus on how to keep yourself and others
safe when attending a demonstration, both on and off campus. We'll have community
speakers, representatives from SLU's law program, and other sources of information
to answer all your questions and concerns. When we march as a collective, we protect
the most vulnerable individuals. Come learn how to put yourself on the streets safely!
Refreshments will be served.
Sponsored by OneWorld Magazine and the Center for Social Action
Thursday, April 10, 2025
Global Knowledge Challenge
11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Busch Student Center North Lobby
The Global Knowledge Challenge will consist of games testing SLU student, faculty,
and staff knowledge about the countries and cultures of SLU's international student
population! Challenges include a flag challenge, an international currency challenge,
and a language challenge. Come to test your global knowledge.
Sponsored by the Office of International Services
Public Health At SLU: Shaping Global Change Through Education
11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Busch Student Center North Lobby
Public health is at the forefront of addressing social injustices and health disparities
worldwide. At SLU, undergraduate students can explore global health challenges, from
infectious disease outbreaks and environmental health threats to maternal and child
health inequities. Through interdisciplinary coursework, hands-on field experiences,
and international study opportunities, students gain the knowledge and skills to drive
meaningful change in communities across the world.
This tabling event will highlight the various academic pathways available within our specific college at SLU, such as our majors of public health, health management, and biostatistics along with our minors of public health and health management and opportunities for global health experiences and service-learning trips.
We invite all prospective students and those curious about public health to stop by the BSC on April 7, 8 and 10, ask questions, and learn how studying public health at SLU can be a pathway to global health impact.
Sponsored by the College for Public Health and Social Justice
Author Craft Talk With Colson Whitehead: A Conversation On Creativity, History, Writing And Social Justice
Noon - 1 p.m.
Busch Student Center Wool Ballrooms
Join us for an engaging sit-down interview with acclaimed author Colson Whitehead,
the recipient of the 2025 St. Louis Literary Award, as he reflects on his extraordinary
literary career, his creative process, and the themes of history and social justice
that permeate his work. Whitehead is a two-time Pulitzer Prize winner, earning this
prestigious honor for The Underground Railroad (2016) and The Nickel Boys (2019).
His remarkable body of work, which includes eight novels and two works of nonfiction,
explores the complexities of American history and the resilience of the human spirit.
The conversation will be moderated by Ron Austin, Ph.D., associate professor of English and creative writing at Saint Louis University, and will provide a unique opportunity to delve into Whitehead’s inspirations, his approach to storytelling, and his reflections on the intersection of art and advocacy. A central focus will be The Underground Railroad, which has been chosen as this year’s Campus Read. This Pulitzer Prize-winning novel reimagines the historic Underground Railroad as an actual network of tracks and tunnels, chronicling the harrowing journey of a young enslaved woman in search of freedom. Whitehead’s work invites readers to confront the brutal realities of slavery while considering the enduring legacies of systemic oppression.
The event is open to the public and will take place in the Wool Ballroom at the Busch Student Center on the campus of Saint Louis University. Signed copies of Whitehead’s books, including The Underground Railroad, will be available for purchase through Left Bank Books. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation with one of today’s most celebrated literary voices as we celebrate his contributions to literature, history and social change.
Sponsored by St. Louis Literary Award Programs
Cultural Crossings
Noon - 1 p.m.
Busch Student Center 254
Recognizing the intensification of connectivity across the globe, the Department of
Languages, Literatures and Cultures has developed a series of specializations designed
to appeal to the student, who enjoys communicating in multiple languages. They are
flexible additions to the traditional courses of study in a single language group,
because they allow for the exploration of multilingual and multicultural communication
and linguistics. Professors Elizabeth Blake and Andre Zampaulo, who have focused on
multiple languages, will discuss how the experience impacts not only their Weltanschauung
but also their communication in writing and speech. They will also discuss how the
new major and minors are designed to augment a student's knowledge with additional
expertise in another language or culture. The following are the focus:
Modern Languages and Intercultural Communication
"This is an undergraduate major, the fruit of a lengthy collaboration between the
Department of Languages, Literatures and Cultures in St. Louis and the Department
of ESL, Modern Languages and Education in Madrid. It consists of 32 credits that include
three foreign languages, linguistics and intercultural communication classes, and
a practicum experience abroad or in a context in which a foreign language predominates.
It is broader and more practical than a pure language major and is designed to complement
other majors. Knowledge of other languages and cultures is important to a growing
variety of professions, and this major is targeted at students who realize the need
to learn more than one foreign language and also to use effective communication skills
when speaking to people from other cultures. In addition, employers seek graduates
who are able to engage in multiple languages in culturally appropriate ways to further
their business goals."
World Cultural Studies
"When studying World Cultural Studies, students develop knowledge and critical skills
to assess different aspects of the cultural production from non-English-speaking parts
of the globe and establish a connection with their own cultural practices, regardless
of their own background. By doing this, students in this program become producers
(rather than just consumers) of cultural forms and analyses. To this end, the curriculum
for the world cultural studies minor integrates skills that are at the heart of this
interdisciplinary field (e.g., problem-posing and problem-solving capacities, creative
and effective writing and speaking, and critical research methodologies). It also
offers students experiential learning, as well as opportunities for applied research
on different ethnic communities, furthering their academic study at SLU. This minor
program is designed to complement the needs of students from various careers, such
as anthropology, English, history, international studies, languages, linguistics,
philosophy, political Science, sociology, women’s and gender studies, among others.
As for career prospects, students in this minor program may find professional opportunities
in community-based service organizations in the for-profit and not-for-profit sectors."
Sponsored by the Department of Languages, Literatures, and Cultures
The Armenian Diaspora
12:45 - 2 p.m.
Busch Student Center 251
This event will focus on the current humanitarian crisis in Artsakh (also known as
Nagorno-Karabakh to non-native Armenian occupants), an area with high native Armenian
occupation, in addition to global health issues throughout the Armenian diaspora.
Since the conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan began in 2020, many native Armenians
in Artsakh were displaced or killed. There is still a lack of resources in the area
due to a strict blockade issued during the conflict against Artsakh, which blocked
things such as water and food from coming into the region. Displacement is now a phenomenon
among Armenian people, and the diaspora is one of the biggest ethnic diasporas in
the world. Within the diaspora, many issues surrounding healthcare and equitable access
to it have emerged.
Recommended web reading prior to or after the lecture:
The Hundred Years War On Palestine: Historical Roots Of The War On Gaza
2 p.m. - 3:15 p.m.
Busch Student Center 251
Sponsored by the Muslim Students’ Association
Addressing Health Disparities Among Refugee And Migrant Populations
3:45 - 5 p.m.
Busch Student Center 254
This event will examine the myriad of issues that these populations face when seeking
medical care. These issues include a lack of access to public healthcare if one does
not have documentation of residency. There are also economic barriers such as low
wages combined with little to no health benefits. Oftentimes, there is a lack of available
transportation. There are often language barriers when communicating with health care
workers, which makes receiving care more difficult and could lead to harmful misunderstandings.
Besides physical care, these populations seek care for their mental health. Fear of
being discriminated against, along with the fear of being deported, creates high stress
levels.
Is This Justice? Stories Of Innocence On Death Row
4 - 5 p.m.
Busch Student Center 251
The flaws of the U.S. system of capital punishment are numerous. It’s deeply rooted
in racial injustice, it disproportionately affects poor and vulnerable populations,
risks innocent lives, and perpetuates cycles of harm and violence. Is this justice?
Nearly 200 innocent people have been exonerated from death row in the U.S. since 1976, not to mention the untold number of people who were unjustly executed. Many murder victims’ family members are outspoken about the fact that the death penalty falls short in providing healing or closure in the wake of grave tragedy. Come hear a death row exoneree's compelling story, as well as from the Catholic Mobilizing Network, an organization dedicated to abolishing the death penalty, advancing justice and beginning healing.
Sponsored by the Center for Social Action, Division of Mission and Identity, the Archdiocese of St. Louis, and Catholic Mobilizing Network
Tu Cuerpo, Tu Yoga
5 - 6 p.m.
Simon Rec Center MPR1
Yoga has many therapeutic effects — it can lead to the cultivation of inner peace,
it can sharpen concentration, reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, and improve
a person’s general well-being. In this yoga session, the entire SLU community, and
most especially SLU students, are invited to practice yoga as a meditation in action
in Spanish. This is an opportunity to give our bodies the means to breathe, learn
and feel movement patterns and stillness in safe and creative ways, while relying
on Spanish to connect body and mind. Thus, this yoga lesson reminds us of the importance
of taking care of our body and mind, before taking care of justice issues. Furthermore,
because it is delivered in a language other than English, it reminds us that we are
part of a complex world made of many different languages and mentalities. Nobody should
be excluded. Finally, doing yoga in Spanish is also a fun way of enjoying each other's
company in a relaxed way.
Note: No prior experience of yoga is required for this class. Beginning proficiency in Spanish required; intermediate proficiency in Spanish (or higher) highly recommended. A flyer with appropriate vocabulary will be provided.
Sponsored by the Department of Languages, Literatures, and Cultures
Twenty-Fifth Annual Atlas Week Signature Symposium Featuring Daniel E. Dawes, J.D.
5:30 - 7 p.m.
Busch Student Center Wool Ballrooms
Daniel E. Dawes, J.D., is a widely respected health care and public health leader,
health equity and policy expert, educator, and researcher who is senior vice president,
global health and is the founding dean of the School of Global Health at Meharry Medical
College, which is the first school of its kind in the United States. Before that he
was executive director of the Satcher Health Leadership Institute at Morehouse School
of Medicine and is a professor of health law, policy and management. A trailblazer
and nationally respected voice in the health equity movement, his scholarship and
leadership, particularly the innovative political determinants of health framework
that he pioneered, have resulted in increased policies and laws prioritizing health
equity. By tackling upstream determinants of health, he has ventured into such uncharted
territory as the intersection between equity and the social and political determinants
of health to change the course of domestic and global policies for the better. Dean
Dawes’ work focuses on health reform, health equity, mental/behavioral health inequities,
social and political determinants of health, poverty, and health system transformation.
His work bridges research, technology, healthcare, population health and public health
— the translation of research discoveries into all communities, including under-resourced,
vulnerable, and marginalized communities. Dean Dawes brings a forward-thinking, inclusive,
and multidisciplinary approach to address issues impacting diverse populations in
urban and rural communities in our progressively complex health system, including
a national study examining the health and economic impact of mental health inequities
in the United States and a major research project which created the nation’s first
health equity tracker. Among his many achievements, he was an instrumental figure
in developing and negotiating the Mental Health Parity Act, the Genetic Information
Nondiscrimination Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act, and an
architect of the Affordable Care Act’s health equity-focused provisions, among other
landmark federal policies.
Having pioneered a framework that has increased policies and laws prioritizing health equity, Dean Dawes works to improve the health of those who have been systemically undervalued. Without creating a deeper divide, he shares how we can develop and implement actionable solutions to close the health gap and provides a playbook for becoming a healthy nation.
Friday, April 11, 2025
Contemporary Challenges In International Humanitarian Law: Is There Hope For The International Order?
8 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Scott Hall 1030
Please join the SLU LAW Center for International and Comparative Law and the Saint
Louis University Law Journal for the CICL and SLU LAW Journal Symposium, "Contemporary
Challenges in International Humanitarian Law: Is there hope for the International
Order?"
Out of the 122 ongoing armed conflicts in the world, certainly two conflicts (Russian intervention in Ukraine and the War in Gaza) have raised important and critical concerns about how war is being conducted. The way the different parties to the conflicts have interpreted and applied the Laws of War (International Humanitarian Law) is a matter of intense debate. When and how, who and what can be targeted, the role of new technologies of warfare, and the mechanisms of accountability are the issues that will gather 17 world-renowned academics at Saint Louis University School of Law. The SLU LAW Center for International and Comparative Law and Saint Louis University Law Journal are proud and grateful to contribute to the international discussion on the current challenges of International Humanitarian Law.
Sponsored by the Center for International and Comparative Law & the Saint Louis University Law Journal
Palestinian Tatreez Art Workshop
10 - 11:30 a.m.
Clock Tower
Come and learn about the beautiful art of Tatreez — Palestinian embroidery. It is
so important to understand its 3000+ year history and also to recognize that preserving
it is another form of Palestinian resistance against cultural erasure and ties into
the Palestinian struggle for liberation.
This is a hands-on experience where you will learn how to create a Palestinian motif. All stitching material will be provided, and no prior embroidery experience is needed.
Atlas Week Parade of Nations
11:45 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
West Pine Mall
The Parade of Nations is a beloved Atlas Week tradition and features members of the
SLU community carrying flags from around the world! The parade starts at the Science
Quad and marches across Grand Boulevard to walk down West Pine Mall.
Fashion Forward: Swap, Donate And Rethink Fast Fashion
Noon - 1 p.m.
Center For Global Citizenship Seminar Room 124A
Join us for a community-driven event focused on raising awareness about the impact
of fast fashion and promoting sustainable choices! This is your chance to declutter
your wardrobe responsibly by donating clothes to Billiken to Billiken, a wonderful
initiative that supports those in need.
In addition to donating, you'll have the opportunity to participate in a unique **exchange** where you can trade handmade items — such as crochet hats, stuffed animals, or any other creative crafts — with fellow attendees. Whether you're passionate about sustainability, crafting, or just looking for a fun way to refresh your wardrobe without contributing to fast fashion, this event is for you!
The Impact Of Warfare On Gaza's Health
1 - 2 p.m.
Center For Global Citizenship Seminar Room 124A
This event discusses the health effects that warfare has had on the people of Palestine.
The war in Gaza has led to both immediate and long-term health crises. These include
a lack of medical resources due to political and military blockades and the physical
and psychological impacts of military responses. The use of advanced weaponry and
restrictions on humanitarian aid contribute significantly to the deterioration of
public health in the region, raising concerns about the lasting effects of such warfare
on the Palestinian population.
Pakistan's Public Health Crisis: Challenges & The Road Ahead
2 - 3 p.m.
Zoom
Health is a basic human right, yet millions in Pakistan face significant barriers
to accessing quality healthcare. From the ongoing fight against polio and tuberculosis
to the challenges of malnutrition, maternal health, and environmental hazards, Pakistan’s
public health crisis reflects deeper issues of inequality and social injustice. Rural
communities, low-income populations, and marginalized groups are often the most affected,
highlighting the urgent need for systemic change.
This event aims to educate and spark discussion about Pakistan’s most pressing public health challenges, drawing on research and data from WHO, UNICEF, the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS), and the Pakistan Medical Council (PMC). We will explore how healthcare disparities are tied to economic and social inequalities and examine both local and global efforts to drive meaningful change. By fostering cross-cultural understanding, this discussion will encourage participants to think critically about how social change can transform global health. Whether through policy reform, community outreach, or international cooperation, the road ahead for Pakistan’s healthcare system holds valuable lessons for addressing global health challenges everywhere.
This presentation, hosted by Hanzalah Ahmed and Amal Rizvi, invites you to join us for an open discussion about Pakistan’s public health crisis and the steps we can take to build a fairer healthcare system. We welcome your questions and thoughts as we explore the challenges and innovative solutions that can drive real change.
Sponsored by the Pakistani Student Association
Campus Kitchen Atlas Week
3 - 4 p.m.
Center For Global Citizenship Seminar Room 124A
This event brings awareness to global food insecurity through presentations and interactive
games in which attendees will gain a better understanding of what it is like to live
with financial struggles. Refreshments provided.
Sponsored by Campus Kitchen
Billiken World Festival
3 - 6 p.m.
Center for Global Citizenship Auditorium
The Billiken World Festival is a showcase of cultural foods, games, and performances!
Join us in this highlight event of Atlas Week 2025!
Sponsored by the International Students Federation
First Nationalism Then Identity: The Case Of Bosnian Muslims
3:30 - 4:30 p.m.
Davis Shaughnessy 171
Although for Bosnian Muslims the process of national emergence and the assertion of
a new identity have been going on for over two decades, Mirsad Kriještorac is the
first to explain the significance of the whole process and how the adoption of their
new Bosniak identity occurred. He provides a historical overview of Yugoslav and Bosnian
Slavic Muslims’ transformation into a full-fledged distinct and independent national
group as well as addresses the important question in the field of nationalism studies
about the relationship between and workings of nationalism and identity. Mirsad Kriještorac
is assistant professor of political science at Broward College.
Sponsored by the Bosnian Herzegovinian Student Association
The Poetry Around You
6:30 - 8:30 p.m.
Davis Shaughnessy 171
The Poetry Around You is an event hosted by Poetic Us to confront burnout and dissociation
among students and those involved in social justice. This will take the form of a
relaxed, guided workshop focusing on being present through writing. Attendees will
be encouraged to write poetry/prose using their senses as a means to practice grounding
and meditation. Senses will be engaged in the following way:
- Smell & Taste: Catering provided by the Mellow Mushroom (a selection of pizzas, pretzel bites, salad, dessert, and drinks)
- Sight & Touch: Painting, crafting supplies, and writing poetry
- Sound: Suggest songs for a collaborative playlist.
Sponsored by Poetic Us. Follow us on Instagram at @poeticus.stl for event updates.
Saturday, April 12, 2025
Interfaith Alliance Prayer Service
11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Cook Hall Auditorium
The Interfaith Prayer Service is held annually by Interfaith Alliance to give SLU
students an opportunity to learn about a variety of different faith traditions. Guest
speakers will share a little bit about their faith followed by a prayer for unity
and peace. In these times of increased animosity, it becomes more important than ever
not just to tolerate, but to build love and understanding of others through knowledge
and friendship. A free multicultural meal will be provided after the service!
Sponsored by Interfaith Alliance
African Student Association's Tribal Fusion Showcase
6:30 - 9 p.m.
Center for Global Citizenship Auditorium
The African Student Association (ASA) invites you to an unforgettable Tribal Fusion
Performance Showcase, an electrifying celebration of African culture, creativity,
and community. The event will feature a captivating fashion show highlighting traditional
and modern African attire, each piece telling a story of heritage and innovation.
Dynamic dance routines, blending traditional tribal moves with contemporary styles,
will grace the stage, showcasing the rhythm and vibrancy of the continent. Beyond
the performances, the showcase includes an interactive crowd educational activity
designed to engage and inform the audience about the cultural, social, and historical
significance of the showcased traditions. This activity encourages dialogue and understanding,
creating a space for attendees to connect with the richness of African cultures while
addressing common misconceptions. Through fashion, dance and education, the Tribal
Fusion Performance Showcase provides a platform for students and the broader community
to celebrate diversity and embrace the beauty of cultural expression. Whether you're
moved by the beat of the drums or inspired by the elegance of the runway, this event
promises an engaging and enlightening experience for all.
Sponsored by the African Student Association