One of the learning objectives that had the greatest impact on me throughout this program was developing a critical awareness of the past and present debates that shape human rights and social justice issues. At the beginning of my studies, I had only a basic understanding of these topics. However, through engaging with challenging course material and participating in meaningful class discussions, my perspective has become much more complex and nuanced.
For example, learning about concepts such as intersectionality, LGBTQ+ rights, and movements like Black Lives Matter pushed me to think more deeply about how different forms of inequality are connected. These topics helped me move beyond surface-level understanding and begin to critically analyze how historical systems of power continue to shape present-day realities. Through assignments and presentations, such as my work on the intersection of gender and race in social justice movements, I was able to see how these issues overlap and cannot be understood in isolation. This has strengthened my ability to critically engage with current events and understand their broader social and historical context.
Another important learning outcome for me was understanding the importance of land acknowledgements. Before this program, I was not fully aware of their meaning or significance. Now, I understand that land acknowledgements are not just symbolic statements, but a way of recognizing Indigenous presence, history, and ongoing relationships to the land. This learning has made me more mindful of my own role and responsibility in supporting Indigenous rights and reconciliation.
In addition, my studies especially in cases on genocide deepened my understanding of how trauma and injustice continue to affect communities over time. I learned that many individuals and communities are still living with the impacts of past violence, and that healing is an ongoing process. This has also shown me the importance of speaking out, particularly in advocating for policy change and holding institutions accountable.
Overall, these learning outcomes have not only expanded my academic understanding, but have also shaped how I see my role in contributing to social justice in a more informed, critical, and responsible way.