In 1969, Caribbean students at Sir George Williams (now Concordia University) staged a sit-in in the computer centre, in response to perceived discriminatory pedagogical practices. The impact of this event was felt acutely amongst Black communities in Montreal (in the context of human rights struggles of the 1960s). It was also followed closely by Canadian media, with ripple effects across the Caribbean in the wake of decolonization and migration, raising questions about Canadian-Caribbean relations.

Protests and Pedagogy is a ten day commemoration of the “Sir George Williams Affair” including workshops, a learning toolkit, round-tables, and an archival art exhibition, culminating in an academic conference – all open and free to the public. Taking place in the Concordia’s 4^th SPACE from January 29 to February 11, 2019, our goal is to facilitate meaningful dialogue about the lessons and legacies of the “Sir George Williams Affair.” 

Protests and Pedagogy will provide a space to foster intergenerational dialogue between current students and then student leaders of the Sir George Williams affair, and lay a future foundation for Black/Caribbean studies scholars in Quebec. Please help us make this possible.