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OSL Spotlight: The Subcontinent Project

How would you describe your organization to someone who hasn't heard of it?

We are a graduate student organization seeking to facilitate a critical engagement with South Asian politics and culture among the Northwestern University community.

Who all is eligible to join your organization?

All graduate students!

How does one "join" your organization?

Write to us at tsp@u.northwestern.edu

What can new members expect from your organization?

We organize multiple events of different natures every quarter. New members can expect opportunities to attend film screenings, academic talks, talks with activists, and teach ins. We are always keen to hear from members about the kinds of events that they would like us to organize -- so new members will also have the opportunity to contribute ideas and make new kinds of events happen with us.

What is your organization's biggest annual event?

Our Fall Welcome Event – we invite everyone interested to come join us for this brief presentation and mixer at TGS Commons on the 27th of September at 5:00 PM. This is when we share the work we have done in the past year, recruit new members, and provide a space for all Northwestern students who are interested in the South Asian subcontinent to come together.

What would you say is one of your organization's biggest successes or achievements?

We invited Akkai Padmashali – a trans and queer rights activist working in India – to do a talk with us virtually. We have also worked with local activist for Free Tibet, Tenzin Dolkar. In two years of operations, we have managed to access a global network of activists, and will continue to strive to platform voices from across the world at Northwestern.

What impact do you think your organization has on the TGS community?

An increased critical engagement with the south Asian Subcontinent – we have raised awareness about draconian citizenship laws in India; and we are also in the process of raising awareness and demanding university action on the rise of Hindu religious nationalism on the Northwestern campus.

What is one thing you want everyone to know about your organization?

We solicit your time and your ideas – we have a few events planned for the 2022-23 academic year, but we are always on the lookout for thoughts on new kinds of events. If you have anything in mind, please write to us or come speak with us at our welcome event on the 27th of September!

Categories: Around Campus