International Day
for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination
Friday, March 27
6:30pm - 8:00pm
Suitable for teens and adults.
Hosted at Main Branch.
Advanced registration required.
Join us in marking the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, recognized on March 21st. Special guest Dr. Leland Harper will explore how everyday language shapes our understanding of racism, responsibility, and justice. Drawing from his book "Racist, Not Racist, Antiracist: Language and the Dynamic Disaster of American Racism" and his ongoing research, Dr. Harper challenges us to consider the vital role of language in dismantling racial injustice in Canada. Copies of Dr. Harper's book will be available to purchase at the event. Cash, credit, debit, and e-transfer are accepted methods of payment.
The event will also feature readings by the winners of the Youth Black History Month Poetry Contest.
Dr. Leland Harper is Associate Professor of Philosophy at Siena Heights University. His current research is in philosophy of race, with a particular focus on anti-Black racism in contemporary North America. He is the co-author of "Racist, Not Racist, Antiracist: Language and the Dynamic Disaster of American Racism" (Lexington, 2022) and "Burn it to the Ground" (Bloomsbury, forthcoming), author of "Multiverse Deism: Shifting Perspectives of God and the World" (Lexington, 2020), and numerous articles and chapters in academic journals and edited volumes. He is the editor of "The Crisis of American Democracy: Essays on a Failing Institution" (Vernon Press, 2022), "Into the Fire: The Intersection of Race and Communication" (Vernon Press, 2025), "The Future of Race in Canada" (Vernon Press, forthcoming), and is the founding editor of the Philosophy of Race series at Vernon Press.
AGE GROUP: | Tweens and Teens | Older Adults (55+) | Adults |
EVENT TYPE: | Special Event |
Main Branch
Opened in 2003
33,000 sq. ft. (3,066 m2)
Main Branch was designed by Teeple Architects and is the Library's largest location. In 2004, the branch won the Ontario Public Library Association Award for Best New Public Library Building. It includes study spaces, bookable meeting rooms, and a variety of accessibility features including a hearing loop and mobility device charging station.