COLONIALISM… RACISM?! DOESN’T THIS APPLY TO US?

Oxford debate

What is it about?

“Colonialism… Racism?! Does it concern us?” is an Oxford-style debate devoted to contemporary forms of prejudice, their historical sources, and their influence on our thinking about the world. The meeting takes the form of a structured discussion that teaches argumentation, confrontation of views, and openness to diverse perspectives.

By whom?

The debate will be moderated by Oliwia Mimi Bosomtwe, author of the widely discussed book Like a White Man. A story about Poles and others (W.A.B., 2024), which explores Polish perceptions of Blackness and the experiences of Black Poles. Her writings have been published in Vogue, Znak, and Res Publica Nowa, among others, and excerpts from the book have been presented at exhibitions in New York and Brussels. The event is partnered and co-organized by the Youth Dialogue Association, and the jury will include Michał Adamiak, Oktawia Braniewicz-Zaorska, and Anna Jurek.

Who is it for?

The debate is primarily intended for high school students participating in the event as part of organized school groups. It is an opportunity for young people who want to broaden their knowledge of social phenomena, develop critical thinking skills, and experience what a genuine exchange of arguments based on respect and dialogue looks like. Group registration: d.dziedzinska@centrumdialogu.com.

Why is it worth it?

“Racism and colonialism? That doesn’t concern us” – this belief has dominated Polish public debate for years. Meanwhile, our language, school textbooks, and everyday associations contain content that perpetuates stereotypes and prejudices. The debate will be an opportunity to take a critical look at these mechanisms and ask questions: what narratives do we inherit, and which ones do we reproduce ourselves? Can we really say that colonialism is only “the history of others”? The meeting will become a space where young people will be able to reflect together on how exclusion works today, what forms hate speech takes, and how it can be defused through awareness and dialogue.

Partner: Wyższa Szkoła Biznesu i Nauk o Zdrowiu w Łodzi

Availability

The Dialogue Center building is accessible for people with mobility impairments. It features wide, non-automatic entrance doors without thresholds and an accessible restroom. The auditorium is located on the ground floor, has a ramp, and includes designated spaces for wheelchair users. In front of the building, there is a large parking lot with marked spaces for people with disabilities. Assistance dogs and guide dogs are welcome in both the building and the auditorium.

Parking entrance from Wojska Polskiego Street.
Nearby bus and tram stops: Wojska Polskiego/Centrum Dialogu, Wojska Polskiego/Sporna.

Photos

Oxford debate at the Dialogue Center, photo: HaWa
Oliwia Mimi Bosomtwe, photo: Alicja Lesiak

#goodconversation #debate #racism #postcolonialism