Black History Month Editathon

In celebration of Black History Month, this event is focused on increasing the representation of women of colour on Wikipedia. Wikipedia is a primary way finding information in the modern world – it is truly an incredible resource. But its power can be dangerous. It means that its systemic biases can have a large impact on the way we think. Wikipedia, like most mainstream publishing and media, is very disproportionately white and male. However, unlike traditional information resources, Wikipedia’s users can have a direct positive impact on its content.

You can directly engage in history, and have a real world impact by creating a Wikipedia page from scratch and while learning about incredible women of colour.

The University’s Wikimedian in Residence, Ewan McAndrew, will be leading the session and teaching Wikipedia editing from the very basics, so no previous knowledge is necessary. (Editing Wikipedia is not hard to pick up as this 5 minute walkthrough of the new Visual Editor interface demonstrates). Computers will be provided or bring your own if you prefer.

Come along and get involved in creating better representation of women of colour on the world’s largest information resource! Help create new role models for young and old alike!

• If a member of staff or student at the university then book your place via MyEd.
• If coming from outside the university then book your place via Eventbrite.

Everyone is welcome!

Header image: Black History Month Wikipedia poster including photo of Bessie Coleman, First African American Pilot, NASA, Public Domain