Loyola University Chicago

Women's History Month in the United States traces its origins to International Women's Day (March 8) which was started in the early 1900's as part of a movement aimed at protesting working conditions for women. International Women's Day while recognized by many countries was not officially recognized in the United States. In fact, as recently as the 1970's, women's history was virtually an unknown topic in the educational curriculum of our schools or in general public consciousness. 

To address this situation, the Education Task Force of the Sonoma County (California) Commission on the Status of Women initiated a "Women's History Week" celebration in 1978 around International Women's Day. After the initiation of similar celebrations within other organizations and school districts, the task force supported an effort to secure a Congressional Resolution declaring a "National Women's History Week." In 1981, Sen. Orrin Hatch (R-UT) and Rep. Barbara Mikulski (D-MD) co-sponsored the first Joint Congressional Resolution.

In 1987, the National Women's History Project petitioned Congress to expand the national celebration to the entire month of March. Since then, the National Women's History Month Resolution has been approved with bipartisan support in both the House and Senate. Each year, programs and activities in schools, workplaces and communities have become more extensive as information and program ideas have been developed and shared.

Planning for Loyola's Women's History Month begins around the Thanksgiving holiday. Contact Risё Nelson Burrow at rnelsonburrow@luc.edu for information about how to get involved.

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2009 WOMEN'S HISTORY MONTH EVENTS

Friday, February 13 and Saturday, February 14
“The Vagina Monologues,”
7p, Mundelein Auditorium
At the heart of the V-Day global movement which seeks to stop all violence against women and girls, The Vagina Monologues is based on interviews with over 200 women about their memories and experiences of sexuality. This Obie Award-winning episodic play by Eve Ensler has been staged in the U.S. and around the world since 1996. Tickets are $7 with a valid Loyola student/faculty/staff ID; $9 for the general public. Tickets are available for sale at the CFSU Info Desk (LSC) and the Terry Student Center Info Desk (WTC) starting Monday, February 2.

Monday, March 9
Women’s History Month Kick Off,
10a-2p, CFSU Lobby
Help us kick off the official celebration of Women’s History Month! Enjoy diverse music and artwork by women artists, experience a preview of the “8 Women” Collective Performance, purchase fair trade crafts made by and benefiting local women, and learn how you can use your voice to help fight for women’s rights around the world. 

Tuesday, March 10  
Village Cafe: “What is Sexual Assault, and How Can I Become an Advocate?,”
5p, Zips Lounge (CFSU Lower Level)
Loyola welcomes Bindiya Shah to talk about her work as a sexual assault advocate. Bindiya discusses the staggering rates of sexual assault and the lifelong impact she witnesses from her work with sexual assault survivors. Studies have shown time and time again, that the care that the victims receive in the initial stages can impact their long-term healing.  Join the discussion and learn about the issues surrounding sexual assault and how you can become an advocate for victims and prevention.

“8 Women,”
7p, Crown Center Lobby
This is a collective performance that was co-created by eight Loyola women of diverse backgrounds. The work will present our stories as women through body movement, song, chant, poetry, image and research.

Wednesday, March 11 
“Celebrating Esther: A Purim Carnival,”
11a-2p, CFSU Lobby
Purim is a festive Jewish holiday combining elements of masquerade and carnival with the heroine being the Persian Queen Esther.  A Purim Carnival is one of the traditions of the holiday.  There will be games, music, Persian food and special exhibits highlighting the cultures of Persian and Jewish women.

WHM Keynote Speaker and Reception: Dr. Vandana Shiva presents “Sustainability & the Global Food Crisis,” 7:30p, Mundelein Auditorium
Dr. Shiva is a world-renowned activist and scholar will discuss the ways in which the global food crisis impacts the livelihood of women around the world.  This event is free and open to the public. Doors open at 7PM.  For more information, visit LUC.edu/gannon

Thursday, March 12
“Sisters of the Planet” Film & Discussion,
6:30p, Bremner Lounge
Climate change is already having a disproportionate impact on people in poor communities, and it's hitting women hardest. Join us in watching these short films about women, in both rich and poor countries, who are determined to do whatever they can to put a stop to climate change.

“American Ethnic: How the Media Shapes how we see Race, Gender, and Ourselves,”
7:30p, The Greenhouse Theater Center
Pay what you can, up to $15. Featuring ALLY, the dynamic hip-hop theater artist and Chicago actor, GOODWIN, an NEA Award-winning performer and writer, and TSAI, a renowned spoken word artist and three time performer on HBO’s “Def Poetry Jam.”  Calling all poets, theater fans, news junkies and hip hop heads! Whether you are old school, new school or a long time out of school, we invite you to join us for a rhythmic and relevant evening of art and discourse on stereotypes of race and gender in our media. 2257 N. Lincoln Ave., Box Office: 773.404.7336. More info: www.remybumppo.org. Contact rnelsonburrow@luc.edu if you are interested in going with the Loyola LUCES Women of Color Leadership Program!

Friday, March 13
Fem Forum Bake Sale,
10a-1p, Damen Lobby
Come enjoy bagels and vagina-shaped cookies! Profits benefit a local women's community center.

Friday, March 13 through Sunday, March 15  
Black Women’s Retreat
Participants of this two-day, off-campus conference work to bridge gaps between generations of women and build bridges across the disciplines in support of our success at Loyola and beyond.  Contact Shelena at Sjohn21@luc.edu .

Sunday, March 15
“Women Composers of the Organ,”
3p, Madonna della Strada Chapel
Dr. Frances Nobert of Whittier, California presents a program entitled "Music She Wrote: Compositions by Women." She will explore the often neglected rich heritage of music composed by women representing every period of organ composition. This engaging lecture recital will feature many fascinating pieces that are rarely heard.

Monday, March 16
Morning Yoga & Breakfast,
8a-10a, Kasbeer Hall, 25 E Pearson, WTC
Start your day (and week) off right by joining some wonderful women in a yoga class.  A light breakfast will follow.  All are welcome!

“Women, Men, and Gender in the Curriculum: A Conversation with Provost Christine Wiseman,”
12p-2p, Piper Hall Gathering Space
As part of Women’s History Month, the Women’s Studies & Gender Studies program and graduate students are sponsoring an event entitled “Women, Men, and Gender in the Curriculum,” a forum that will include Provost Christine Wiseman and three other speakers.  We envision this event as the beginning of a campus-wide discussion among students and faculty to look at the ways in which we engage (or avoid) issues related to gender and other categories of difference, as well as to make stronger connections across the disciplines. 

Tuesday, March 17
“Black Women & HIV/AIDS,”
7:30p, Crown Center Auditorium
Marilyn McBride, AIDS Advocate, Lobbyist, Case Manager and Public Speaker will be presenting on the effect of HIV and AIDS on Black women in America. Additionally, Katrina Holmes, prevention program manager of HIV services at Access Community Health Center, will be speaking on effective prevention methods among the black community.

Wednesday, March 18
LSC Women’s Health & Vendor Fair,
11a-4p, Halas
The Women's Health Fair brings together local health providers, organizations, and on-campus student groups in order to better the health of Loyola's women. The Health Fair will feature a chiropractor, massage therapist, blood testing, information on breast and cervical cancer prevention, healthy snacks, free goody bags containing health essentials, and much more. The Fair is a great way for women on campus to learn valuable information about their health as well to have fun and interact with the community!

“Womanist Ways of Being in the World:  Perspectives on Theological Anthropology,”
3p, Crown Center 334
 A Womanist is a black feminist or woman of color.  Theological anthropology explores what it means to be human in a world of grace.  Come and hear Dr. LaReine Mosely explore how being African American and female shapes her sense of self and subsequently her theological outlook. All LUC students and faculty are warmly invited to join this engaging presentation and dialogue! Refreshments to follow.
 
“In the Family: Living With the BRCA1 Gene and HPV" Film, Kosher/Latin Dinner, Panel Discussion,
7p, Mundelein 709
Powerful film documents diverse women struggling to decide how much they must sacrifice in order to survive.  Panelists include a genetic counselor, bio-ethicist, geneticist and gene-carrier.

Thursday, March 19
“Sex, Lies & Videotape: Feminism and the Ownership of a Woman’s Body” Dinner & Discussion,
6:30p, Crown Center Auditorium
In partnership with Women's History Month, the Social Justice Dinner/Dialogue Series presents: "Sex, Lies, & Videotapes". This interactive workshop uses the lens of 3rd Wave Feminism to discuss and deconstruct popular culture (magazines, media, pornography, etc.) and the ownership of a woman's body. The intersections of misogyny, sexism, violence against women and empowerment will be topics of dialogue. In addition the personal and collective responsibility of men and women towards creating a psychologically and physically safe environment for all women identified bodies will be brought to light.

Friday, March 20
The Color of Queer Film Series presents “U People: Women and Men across Sexualities and Color”
Lunch & Discussion, 12:30p, Bremner Lounge 
U People begins with the following disclaimer: “When you view this film, do not make assumptions about anyone’s sexuality.” Once upon a time in a brownstone in Brooklyn—a music video was made—but not just one camera was rolling—and not just music was caught on tape. The ‘Make a Move’ music video, which debuted on MTV’s LOGO, was the first of its kind to depict women of color across sexualities and gender expression. One house, two days, thirty women and Trans folks of color bridged their differences in the creation of this video. U People is an accidental documentary where what the camera caught will introduces a strong, hilarious, candid and very human voice into the discussion of gay and straight relations, the diversity within the minority, and resolution beyond our labels.

Sisters United for Service Community Outreach,
3:45p, CFSU Lobby
Join Loyola students as we support the work of Sarah's Circle, a drop-in center for homeless women in the Uptown neighborhood. On this day and every day, Sarah’s Circle opens its doors to women in need.  Some women come for a hot shower, warm meal or winter coat; others, to participate in a creative writing group, to work with a volunteer in building their resume or to receive support in recovering from domestic violence.  Sarah’s Circle offers valuable services to our deserving clients—ultimately creating a safe refuge, a sense of community, and a circle of hope.

Monday, March 23
“Iron Jawed Angels,” Film Screening & Discussion,
7 pm, Life Sciences Building 312
“Iron Jawed Angels” recounts for a contemporary audience a key chapter in U.S. history: in this case, the struggle of suffragists who fought for the passage of the 19th Amendment. Focusing on the two defiant women, Alice Paul (Hilary Swank) and Lucy Burns (Frances O'Connor), the film shows how these activists broke from the mainstream women's-rights movement and created a more radical wing, daring to push the boundaries of political protest to secure women's voting rights in 1920.

Tuesday, March 24
“Power in Our Voices: Celebrating Women’s History Month with HBOs Def Poet Suheir Hammad,”
7p, Zips Lounge (CFSU Lower Level)
This event is an open mic featuring Def poet Suheir Hammad. By creating this opportunity for artistic dialogue among members of Loyola, we hope to celebrate the strong women that have influenced our lives, and gain a sense of empowerment by sharing and listening to the personal work of our neighbors, sisters and friends.

Wednesday, March 25
Women’s Recognition Reception,
5p, Terry Student Center 303, WTC
This reception is being held to honor the many women at WTC who contribute to our university community.  Nominations are welcome.  For more information, contact Ann Marie Morgan, amorga3@luc.edu.

Thursday, March 26
Gannon Women’s Leadership Reception,
5p, Piper Hall
Women who have been nominated by members of the Loyola community will be recognized for their phenomenal and empowering work as leaders. This celebration will feature short speeches on women’s leadership, a musical performance and hors d’oeuvres.

Tuesday, March 31
“Tea, Taboo and Fondue,”
4p, Mundelein Cardinal’s Suite
Hillel and the Muslim Students Association bring together women from the campus community to enjoy international teas and build bonds of sisterhood through games and discussion.

Wednesday, April 8
“Take Back the Night,”
6p, Food & Open Mic @ CFSU Lobby |
7p, Rally & March through Rogers Park|
8p, Speak Out @ CFSU Lobby
This is the most important and empowering event of Sexual Assault Awareness Week. It inspires both women and men to confront sexual violence. We will assert that all human beings have the right to be free from violence and the right to reclaim these rights if they are violated. For more info or anonymous open mic submissions: kbrow18@luc.edu.

Tuesday, April 15
“Drunk Sex or Date Rape: Can You Tell the Difference” Presentation,
7p, Crown Center Auditorium
This one-hour interactive program is presented by Brett Sokolow, a higher education attorney who specializes in sexual misconduct and campus security. Brett draws on his legal experience to facilitate this interactive jury exercise where the audience "hears" a trial based on a real sexual assault case.

WHM 2009 is brought to you by the Department of Student Diversity & Multicultural Affairs, Women’s Studies & Gender Studies Program, Gannon Center for Women & Leadership, the Wellness Center Student Environmental Alliance, University Ministry, Hillel, Judicial Affairs, Feminist Forum, CARE, SAAG, AMSA, WILL, BCC, NAACP-LUC Chpt., MESA, LASO, SASA, CUERP, Amnesty Intl, Oxfam Loyola, Muslim Student Association, Alpha Psi Lambda, MGC, Panhellenic Council, The Persian Club, and other community organizations dedicated to the celebration and wellness of women worldwide.

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