Vision and Rationale

Global health is a broad perspective that shapes our actions on a global scale. It is a system of thought that challenges individuals and communities to form connections with those whose lives they affect and are affected by. It is not about guilt, obligation, or moral superiority. Rather, it is about looking at oneself critically and appreciating the complex human interactions which affect one's life. It is not simply about helping others - it is about the mutual enrichment of lives by challenging ourselves to care for and appreciate others. It is about striving to understand the ways that global situations personally affect us, and how we construct or deconstruct them - it is not blind altruistic actions or personal sacrifices. Global health is about the subtleties, ideologies, discourse, images and the messages we chose to leave by our actions - and the empowerment we are capable of just by virtue of being human. The most valuable thing we can contribute to "global health" is our creative ingenuity and human compassion.

It is for these reasons that this year, our group has chosen to focus on education in global health. We hope to ignite discussion that will complement and extend the fundraising activities, exchanges, and overseas electives that Queen's medical students have proven to be so enthusiastically engaged with. We strive to make global health a local concept, so that the issues do not simply affect unknown others but affect us as a community. We envision a revolutionary, inter-professional program that will shape critical thinkers, and passionate actors in global health.

Activities

• Health and Human Rights Conference 2008
• Global Health in Context Lecture Series
• Community Initiative Project
• Global Health Forum
• Special Events
• International Electives / opportunities

Executive Team