International Women's Day

Which language can foster epistemic diversity and cultural inclusion?

International Women's day is an occasion to reflect on various types of obstacles and barriers that impede women and other groups to be fully part of society. On this edition, a debate is promoted to reflect on how languages can foster, or hinder, epistemic diversity and cultural inclusion. 

With a multidisciplinary panel, we problematize the concept of ‘mother tongue’, an expression that bears strong gendered connotations, and that for this reason may perpetuate known gender stereotypes. Further, we discuss the linguistic barriers that non-native speakers face in an academic world in which English dominates and/or when starting a living in another country. This will lead us to discuss threats to academic internationalization expressed in the Dutch political debate, as dangerous moves to reinforce marginalization of women and other minority groups. We will welcome questions from the audience, to share experiences, concerns, and best practices related to language policies in academia and in society.

We also will celebrate the achievements of ROSANNA fund.

Programme

• 12:30 – Arrival with Coffee and Tea (Westerdijk room)
• 13:00 – Opening Speech John de Wit, Diversity Dean (ENG)
• 13:10 – Which Language Can Foster Epistemic Diversity and Cultural Inclusion? Engage in a thought-provoking discussion, featuring moderator Prof. dr. Federica Russo and a panel of experts (ENG): Wafa Alawi: Sociolinguistics, Madison Steele: Intercultural communication and education, Dr. Hielke Vriesendorp: Sociolinguistics and inclusive language and Dr. Uwe Peters: Philosophy.
• 14:30 – Coffee Break (Westerdijk room)
   
• 15:00 – ROSANNA Fund Event (Belle van Zuylen room)
• 15:00 – Welcome  
• 15:10 – Panel with alumni from the Rosanna Fund (NL)
• 15.45 – Awarding of 2025 funds, with laudations, by Prof. dr. Anneke Smelik and Prof. dr. Rosi   Braidotti (ENG/NL)
• 16:30 – Short lecture by public philosopher dr. Stine Jensen (NL)
•  16.55 – Closing by Prof. dr. Rosi Braidotti
• 17.00 – 18.00 Drinks (Westerdijk room)