The Freedom Lounge is a space of celebration, support, and solidarity.

It is a study space for students to hang out regardless of race, ethnicity, or background. The space is dedicated to supporting racialized individuals through passive and active educational programming to raise awareness and join people together as a means of establishing community. The Freedom Lounge has always been open to any students interested in using the space to study or relax.

The Trent Central Student Association continuously communicates that we do not condone any one being asked to leave the space, rather for individuals to be aware of the space that they occupy. Understanding that the Freedom Lounge is one of few spaces of its kind emerging in Canadian universities, we are still establishing policies and pivoting where necessary given feedback.

Spaces meant to build community for marginalized groups have never been intended to exclude, nor limit others' experience.

It is important to note that non-racialized students are welcome within the Freedom Lounge, however they must remain mindful as the space is designated to support racialized initiatives and community members.

The Freedom Lounge sometimes holds events or campaigns to support specific racialized groups at different points in the year. For example, during Black History Month events have been held specifically to provide a space of solidarity and affirming the Black student community’s lived experience since Black History Month can be an emotionally taxing time.

Our Freedom Lounge is not meant to divide or encourage discrimination, instead we aim to unite.