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Public Lectures & Events

See LA&PS in action!

Our large and diverse Faculty is always hosting a variety of events, presentations, activities and workshops for students, staff and the public. You’ll get exposure to fresh ideas, meet like-minded peers or learn a brand-new skill.

We’re excited to share our scholarship and research excellence with the wider community by presenting ongoing lecture series and dynamic annual events that feature some of the top thinkers in their fields, covering essential issues like equity and social justice, individual rights, globalization and indigeneity in Canada.

Kitty Lundy Memorial Lecture

In honour of the late Kitty Lundy, an admired York sociology professor, this lecture series features individuals whose scholarship and creativity address principles Lundy upheld, including engaged learning, equity and social justice, and the exchange of ideas within and outside the University.

Vico Lecture Series

Spurred by the donation of two rare volumes written by renowned 17th century Italian philosopher Giambattista Vico and established in the memory of Fred Zorzi, this annual lecture promotes history, culture and myth within the humanities and social sciences, and offers an important link between York and the Italian-Canadian community.

Avie Bennett Historica Lecture

To support the study of Canada’s heritage and ensure the academic vitality of the discipline of history, this annual lecture is part of the Avie Bennett Historica Canada Conference, named in honour of York Chancellor Emeritus Avie Bennett.

Woman stands in front of class during seminar while students raise hands

Department of Anthropology Public Lecture Series

Everyone is welcome to attend our public lectures hosted by the Department of Anthropology. At these events, we discuss the most pressing and topical issues in the field and beyond.

Author and poet Dionne Brand stands at podium while giving a lecture at York University

Canadian Writers in Person Lecture Series

Get up close and personal with an eclectic group of Canadian authors in this one-of-a-kind annual series. Readings are free and open to members of the public.

Del and Wanita Smyth portraits

Smyth Dialogues

The Smyth Dialogues is a signature public event that showcases ideas, solutions and discussions to promote peace, justice and human security in the memory of Wanita Smyth and Del Smyth.

Coffee mug and small plant placed next to Macbook Pro laptop with video conference call on screen

Moving Forward Webinar Series

This new virtual lunchtime talk series invites successful York alumni to share their experiences and discuss how organizations are navigating the future with strength and determination to create a positive change.

mic on stage

The Alchemy Lecture

The Alchemy Lecture brings together thinkers and practitioners in a multi-vocal event that crosses disciplines, geographies, and borders so that we may think together, in public, on the pressing issues of our times.