David L. Archer President | Christian Brothers University website

High school students recently had the opportunity to explore Christian Brothers University (CBU) through a social justice lens. The event, known as the Second Annual CBU Day of Social Justice, was themed "Envisioning a Just Memphis" and included various activities aimed at promoting awareness of social justice issues.

The event featured a keynote address by CBU alumna Yancy Villa, an interdisciplinary artist and advocate for social justice. Villa shared her personal journey, recounting a near-death experience in Mexico that led her to spend a year serving in Mozambique. She described how living among those in poverty profoundly impacted her life. “Living like them, with them, makes you human, makes you see the other, and that is so important,” she said. “Proximity to the most needy...being with them, it transforms you.”

After her time in Mozambique, Villa moved to the United States and enrolled at Christian Brothers University where she discovered her passion for art and activism. Her work now focuses on addressing issues such as immigration injustice.

The day's activities also included lunch and discussions with CBU leaders before students participated in interactive workshops at the Rosa Deal School of Arts. One workshop titled "Protest Poster History & Makers Station," led by Melinda Posey from Graphic Design, Visual, and Performing Arts, allowed students to learn about iconic protest signs and create their own reflecting current concerns.

Another workshop called "What is a Just Memphis?" was facilitated by Dr. Tracie Burke from Behavioral Sciences. Students explored different roles within social justice leadership and considered their impact on areas like education and housing.

The event was organized by Dr. Tawny LeBouef Tullia, Dean of the Rosa Deal School of Arts. Her efforts were acknowledged for providing an inspiring day focused on social justice themes.