College students celebrate inclusivity at Church Street

In an attempt to propagate individuality and inclusivity, students of St Joseph’s University got together on one of Bengaluru’s prime locations to present a unique set of performances

Bengaluru is a melting pot of cultures, and each individual is unique. Often though, society determines how people behave, interact and dress, making it tough for people to be themselves.

All about individuality
To spread awareness on inclusivity, and the importance of embracing oneself, the Social Work Students’ Association of St Joseph’s University conducted an event on Wednesday titled “Choosing Individuality” in the midst of the hustle-bustle of Church Street. College students took part in a fashion show with a twist, reached out to passers-by and asked them to jot down moments where they felt excluded from society.
“It was a great event, the public’s reaction was overwhelming and emotional,” says association’s vice-president Sumayya.

In solidarity with those who feel excluded
“Fighting pressure and expectations of society, many feel excluded due to caste, religion, identity, and dressing. The event was to support them,” shares Viola Noronha, an assistant professor. “A ramp walk had students cross-dressing to make a statement. Students met people individually, and passed out chits with positive messages, and took a chart paper around which had the hashtag ‘#excluded’ as people shared their own moments,” she adds.
Viola adds, “Despite traffic being blocked, people had no qualms about it and cooperated.”