Students will learn and explore identity development, social justice and activism among other skills during this year’s Students of Color Conference.

The 32nd annual Students of Color Conference will begin virtually on Thursday, April 21, with the theme of Cancel Misinformation: Regain Truth. 

Highline’s Center for Cultural and Inclusive Excellence has opened registration and application for the events. Deadline for the application is Friday, April 8. The application form is available via this link https://bit.ly/HCSOCC22

The events are free.

The conference is a two-day event, which includes activities, workshops, and conversation which will involve participants on the five main themes of the conference which are identity development, awareness of others, skills development, social justice, social activism, and personal development. Students will explore their identity and engage in workshops around social justice related skills and issues.

The “Students of Color Conference is a statewide student leadership conference geared toward students of color in the Washington state community and technical college system to examine issues of diversity and multiculturalism,” according to CCIE. 

“All students who will be enrolled through Spring 2022 should consider applying,” said Edwina Fui, Interim director of the Center for Cultural and Inclusive Excellence. “This is open to everyone. Every SOCC brings speakers/presenters of all identities who will share their stories while engaging with students from across Washington state.” 

“The conference has five pillars which are identity development, awareness of others, skills development, social justice, social activism, and personal development, all participants can expect to learn and grow together through various sessions,” she said. 

“I think what made this event so successful for such a long time is that it’s intention was to really expose students to their own identity and others’,” said Geomarc Panelo, Highline’s mentorship programs leadership adviser.

“I remember going to this conference when I was in college and it really changed how I see myself and others. Such a powerful conference. Also the energy from everyone at the conference, it’s very contagious. You feel very empowered after,” he said.