One World
Last week's One World Week proved to be a huge success according to the organizers. The events, which aimed to bring the Town and the University together, celebrated the international diversity of Oxford's own community. Cultural societies, campaign groups, writers and activists joined forces in a week of discussions, talks, workshops, dancing, food, drink and partying.
Speakers who combined intellectual analysis with personal experience made the talks a very popular attraction. Around 250 people attended Jo Wilding's eyewitness account of recent events in Iraq on April 29. As the organisers had hoped, a wide cross-section of Oxford's communities became involved in events. Over £1,200 was made at the benefit gig at the Zodiac on April 30. The acts, featuring Rob Newman and Seize the Day, sold over 350 tickets, with the money going to Oxford Campaigning Organizations.
Matt Sellwood, one of the organisers, urged even more people to become involved in campaigning at a local or national level. He added: "The success of this week shows the huge potential for campaigning and making a positive difference in Oxford."
One World Week has been just one of the many campaigns taking place in Oxford. The forthcoming launch of Oxford Indymedia will provide a focus for everyone interested in campaigning issues and involving themselves in the local community. One World Week events also continue for the next few weeks. On Friday May 9 a Brazilian Samba night is being held at Wadham College with all money raised going to the Brazilian Landless Movement (Movemento Sem Terra).
8th May 2003