A distinguished guest speaker will describe the current situation of the Uyghur ethnic group in the western Chinese province of Xinjiang. The Uyghurs (which call their region East Turkestan) feel that their identity is being oppressed by the Chinese government, and hope for the region's independence. Many Han Chinese, on the other hand, feel that the Uyghurs are ungrateful for the dramatic technological advancement that Chinese investment has brought.
Over the past months, the international community has observed an increasing unrest in Xinjian between the Uyghurs and the Han Chinese, as well as significant ethnic violence. Our speaker will discuss with first-hand knowledge the different issues sorrounding this problem, and will try to give a varied insight in the possible reasons, consequences and solutions. ..One of the only opportunities to learn about a truly fascinating and sadly violent conflict.
Due to the nature of the event, we ask all guests to register beforehand sending an e-mail to circa.academic@hotmail.com with their name and UNI. For any questions or further information, please contact ag2815@columbia.edu, check out the CIRCA e-mails and flyers, go to www.columbia.edu/cu/circa or join our facebook group. If you would like to join CIRCA's mailing list, please send an e-mail to circa@columbia.edu