VSU Explores Privilege and Oppression in Society Through The Tunnel

VALDOSTA – Valdosta State University’s Office of Housing and Residence Life will host the second annual Tunnel experience from 5 – 9 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 29 in the University Center North.

The Tunnel follows a succession of diversity programs from schools across the nation with similar titles, such as The Tunnel of Oppression or Tunnel of Privilege. This program is a multi-sensory, educational event that guides participants through a series of audio, visual and experiential elements that explore various facets of privilege and oppression in society. At the end of each guided tour through The Tunnel, participants will engage in discussion with a trained facilitator as a means of processing their experience.

“The goal of this program is to raise awareness regarding the pervasiveness of oppression and privilege within our campus culture and greater society,” said Donald Coleman, Housing and Residence Life complex director. “We also hope to encourage students to seek opportunities for social change and empower civil action.”

Tours will be offered every five to seven minutes until 9 p.m. Students should anticipate spending 45 to 60 minutes at The Tunnel.

For more information, contact Coleman at 229-333-5330 or docoleman@valdosta.edu.

Valdosta State University’s 2013-2019 Strategic Plan represents a renewal of energy and commitment to the foundational principles for comprehensive institutions.

Implementation of the plan’s five goals, along with their accompanying objectives and strategies, supports VSU’s institutional mission and the University System of Georgia’s mission for comprehensive universities.

The story above demonstrates VSU's commitment to meeting the following goals:

Goal 1: Recruit, retain, and graduate a quality, diverse student population and prepare students for roles as leaders in a global society.

Goal 3: Promote student, employee, alumni, retiree, and community engagement in our mission.

Visit http://www.valdosta.edu/administration/planning/strategic-plan.php to learn more.