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| (l-r) Emily Harrison, Kendra Sauerteig, Rachel Doucet, Jennifer Keeling, Vincent Hopkins, Janet Conrad, Scott Cameron (Pearce photo) |
Jennifer Keeling first travelled to Uganda in 2005 with with her International Development Studies (IDS) field studies class. The fourth-year student was so inspired by that experience, she is now heading up an event that will put students and others in motion for a cause that's close to her heart.
On Oct. 21, Dal students will join residents of Halifax in GuluWalk, an event designed to raise awareness of a devastating humanitarian crisis in northern Uganda. GuluWalk is in support of the 'night commuters' who walk as far as 20 km daily, fearing abduction by the rebel-led Lord's Resistance Army. Many of the walkers are children, who travel at night with no adult supervision or security.
"I recently returned to Uganda in January to attend a Peace Conference in Kampala, so I am quite tied to the region," says Jennifer, who is the Walk's Halifax Chair.
GuluWalk is a worldwide event that is taking place in 75 cities. In Halifax, the event will be attended by Alexa McDonough and the international event's co-founder, Kieran Hayward. Dalhousie's contribution includes off-campus students, residence assistants and others.
"The GuluWalk is a voice for the abandoned children of northern Uganda. It seeks to empower the next generation of Ugandans through education and support, giving them the best opportunity possible to be engaged in a peaceful future in their communities," Jennifer says.
It starts at Point Pleasant Park (the Young Avenue gates) at 2 p.m. and the students say everyone is welcome to take part. For additional information, please visit: www.guluwalk.com