March is Women’s History Month. Join Northern Arizona University as it celebrates and honors the vital role of women in American history with events hosted by the Office of Inclusion (IMQ).
“Although women/womyn/womxn are historical and epic year-round, in March we have an opportunity to pause and share countless inspiring stories about their impact in their communities, the nation and the entire world,” said Marian Griffin, assistant director of student life experiences of IMQ. “By sharing these stories, we can inspire and encourage a new generation of leaders who can carry on the legacy and progress of those who have strived before us.”
Women’s History Month originated as Women’s History Week in 1982. Over the years, the week moved to the entire month of March, but it wasn’t until 1995 that Women’s History Month was secured as a recurring time to celebrate women’s contributions and achievements to American society.
“We also intentionally broadened our reach to give awareness to the intersectionality and inclusivity that can be found within this community through the expanded recognition of women/womyn/womxn,” Griffin said. “The hope is that Lumberjacks feel included and can see themselves in this celebration.”
IMQ will be implementing a month-long social media tribute to women/womyn/womxn across the world. Follow IMQ on Instagram at @nau_inclusion to learn more. Additionally, special events have been organized during March.
Dilofarid Miskinzod, a lecturer in the Department of Women’s and Gender Studies and co-chair of NAU’s Commission on the Status of Women, said highlighting the benefit of feminist/gender studies scholarship encouraging students to pay attention to structural inequalities and to understand and examine diverse social issues during Women’s History Month.
“All individuals should be able to understand the impact of social environments and historical influences on contemporary issues, especially those related to gender and racial inequities, economic disparities, health disparities including COVID racial and gender disparities, maternal mortality, STDs, teen pregnancy etc., and be able to suggest policy changes to address issues that women still face,” Miskinzod said. “Feminist/gender studies courses teach students intersectionality to equip them with tools that allow them to analyze how gender, race, ethnicity, class, age, religion, disability and sexual orientation impact participation of diverse members in society. Feminist/gender studies courses can also be helpful in addressing a wide range of social issues, such as the effect of voting schedules and polling locations on voter turnout, the effects of locations on access to Covid testing and vaccination, environmental racism, and the lack of insurance among the most vulnerable members of society.”
See below for the schedule of events.
Female Necessity Drive for Hope’s Cottage
Donate to the drive to benefit women who are supported by Hope’s Cottage. The dropbox is located in the IMQ office inside the University Union Fieldhouse for the entire month of March. Needed items include diapers, baby/antibacterial wipes, journals/notebooks, backpacks and other items that would support women, mothers and children.
Fourth Annual WGS Essay Poetry Art Contest: Join Women’s and Gender Studies (WGS) and theCommission for the Status of Women (CSW) for an essay/poetry/art competition on feminism for middle and high school students in Coconino County. Entries are due March 15. For information, contact Jessy.Zukosky@nau.edu.
“Leading with Grace” Women in the Professional World Panel
When: 1-2:30 p.m. March 16
Where: Virtual Panel
This is a moderated conversation with a panel of esteemed members of the NAU community to discuss how they explore and navigate the world and challenges they face. The event is open to all NAU community members. Register for the event here.
Gender Politics of Care during COVID-19:
When: 5-6:30 p.m. March 25
Where: Virtual
Join WGS, CSW and University of New Mexico’s Jennifer Denetdale for a conversation on the indigenous gender politics of care in the time of COVID-19. Register for the event here.
“Exploring Womxnhood” Talking Circle
When: 3-4:30 p.m. March 30
Where: Virtual Discussion
This is an open conversation for the NAU community to come together and discuss the topic of women, ranging from the challenges women face to accomplishments to what it means to be a woman. The event is open to the NAU community. Register for the event here.
To view all the events IMQ offers this month, visit IMQ’s March 2021 Events webpage.
Jacklyn Walling | NAU Communications