Harsh realities brought to light through KU's 'Tunnel of Oppression'

LAWRENCE - The University of Kansas' Multicultural Resource Center will bring back its “Tunnel of Oppression" for a fourth year to help relay the horrors of hatred and subjugation.

The interactive multimedia experience asks participants to face different types of oppression in our society, including racism, sexism and homophobia. The tunnel will be in Hashinger Hall, which will be converted into a maze full of video images, recorded voices and role-playing scenarios that are intended to educate participants about the harsh realities of oppression.

This year's "Tunnel of Oppression" will be open from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 16, through Thursday, Nov. 18. The event is free and open to the public.

Santos Nuñez, program director for the Multicultural Resource Center and one of the event organizers, said the experience would remind participants that despite steps forward in our society, oppression is still common.

"The Tunnel of Oppression is an opportunity for KU and local community members to experience some of the oppression that happens in our society," Núñez said. "It is unfortunate that these things still occur, but we must educate ourselves."

Each year, about 200 students, faculty, staff and other Lawrence community members experience the tunnel. Provisions to exit are made for individuals who find it difficult to complete. Because of the graphic nature of the tunnel, children are discouraged from attending.

Once participants come to the end of the tunnel, they may engage in a small group discussion with a licensed university counselor.