CSUN Kicks Off ‘Week of Activism’

Cal State Northridge’s student government Wednesday kicked off a “Week of Activism,” a series of activities meant to increase tolerance and get members of the public involved in civic life.

Featured events include a workshop on how to influence politicians and a lecture by Judy Shepard, mother of slain gay University of Wyoming freshman Matthew Shepard.

“I wanted [speakers], but I also wanted to offer steps for people to take after they are inspired,” said graduate student Trish Fair, 25, the organizer of the event and an Associated Students member. “How do you get involved? How do you write letters to legislators? What do you do to make a difference?”

The free events include:

* Screenings of the film “Boys Don’t Cry,” based on the 1993 rape and murder of cross-dressing Nebraska teenager Teena Brandon, at 8 and 10 p.m. Thursday in the Shoshone Room of the Satellite Student Union, with a discussion following the 8 p.m. screening.

* The Shepard lecture at 1 p.m. Friday in the Performing Arts Center of the University Student Union.

* Shuttles to the United Way’s “Day of Caring” events, in which the public helps with neighborhood improvement projects. Shuttles leave the campus shortly after 8 a.m. Saturday in campus parking Lot C. Preregistration required.

* A “Nonprofit Networking Fair,” featuring information on volunteer and job opportunities, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday in the University Student Union.

* The workshop “Organizing 101,” exploring means of building local activism, from 3 to 4 p.m. Monday in the University Student Union’s Santa Clarita Room.

* A panel discussion on faculty activism from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Tuesday in the Grand Salon of the University Student Union.

* The workshop, “How to Influence Your Legislature,” from 2 to 3 p.m. Wednesday, also in the union’s Santa Clarita Room.

All events are geared toward students, but are open to the public, Fair said.

The CSUN campus is at 18111 Nordhoff St. Call (818) 677-2130 for more information.