During three days of events Nov. 27 to Nov. 29, one campus organization is hoping to create international awareness.
The World Information and Response Effort, a campus organization that strives to raise awareness of international issues, will sponsor events to make students aware of land mines and unexploded ordinance, junior Tim Haynes said.
Haynes said the group had to narrow down several topics.
“There were just so many issues we felt strongly about,” he said. “In the end, we felt this was an issue we could tackle.”
During the week, information will be placed around campus, Haynes said. Mock mine fields and mines also will be placed to give an idea of what life is like in areas of the world with that ongoing problem.
Information will be presented in the Harter Union lobby from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Nov. 27. The film “Turtles Can Fly” will be shown at 7 p.m. Nov. 28 in Owens A-V Room.
The effort will end with a benefit concert and party from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. Nov. 29 at Abe and Jake’s in Lawrence. The cover will be $5 at the door and $3 in advance. Donations will be accepted, and all proceeds will benefit victims of unexploded ordinance.
Haynes said students may be shocked to learn how large of a problem this is.
“We found some absolutely staggering statistics. Over 75 percent of all victims are civilians. That’s just absolutely incredible,” he said.
Junior Bret McSpadden said the events are small steps toward finding solutions.
“With so many global problems, you may think you may not be able to do anything, but if you focus on one, you may be able to elicit a response, and we’re hoping to accomplish that,” he said.