SFA’s Office of Multicultural Affairs to host 10th annual Tunnel of Oppression

NACOGDOCHES, Texas — Begun in 2007 by Stephen F. Austin State University’s Office of Multicultural Affairs, the 10th annual Tunnel of Oppression will offer the SFA and Nacogdoches communities a glimpse inside often complex yet subtle forms of oppression.

“The Tunnel of Oppression is an interactive museum that spotlights many forms of oppression through interactive theater,” said OMA Director Veronica Beavers. “The purpose of the tunnel is to enlighten and educate participants in the areas of diversity and social justice.”

SFA’s university-sponsored Lumberjack Cultural Association primarily coordinates the Tunnel of Oppression. Members of OMA’s other eight organizations will perform various skits within rooms inside the tunnel, each with the aim of illuminating how forms of oppression can affect individuals and families.

“Participants should expect to be amazed,” Beavers said. “They will experience an eye-opening experience. Topics to be discussed include stereotypes, body image, mental illness and many more. The Tunnel of Oppression brings awareness to participants on many diversity-related topics and social justice issues in society, which aligns with the OMA’s mission.”

The Tunnel of Oppression is a free three-day event. SFA 101 students will be the only participants Nov. 6. The event will open to the public from 6 to 9 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday, Nov. 7-8, in the Baker Pattillo Student Center Theater.

For information, contact the OMA at oma@sfasu.edu, or visit sfasu.edu/oma.