Women's History Month 2014
inspiring women
Women's History Month is a time to celebrate the women who have inspired positive change in our shared histories and our lives. This year's theme was "Inspiring Women," giving us the opportunity to look at the struggles and accomplishments of women and girls - not just to honor those who inspire, but to find our own voices. Students and faculty across campus participated in a writing project that asked them to consider the term "feminism," how it has historically been defined and how it is currently used. Participants defined what a modern-day feminist was and thought about what inspired them to be a feminist.
Raven Watson echoes many of her peers, "I am a feminist because I believe in social rights and social justice. I believe men and women are equal, women can dictate their own lives....Feminism doesn't have a set definition for each person. It's a movement, a movement for equality." Eric Davis Jr. writes, "I was raised by two feminists, my mother and father; therefore I am a feminist....We need more people to stand out and say, 'I am a feminist.'"
Annual Women's History Month Poster Contest
Brandi newton, 2014 whm art contest winner
Statement from the artist: I feel truly honored that my poster design was chosen for this years Women's History Month celebration. The research I did while creating the design was eye opening! The knowledge I gained about women's history was both humbling and empowering. Even though it was easy to find I feel like I've made some kind of major discovery! I'm grateful for the contest because I had no idea there was so much out there left to learn about my own history, and I'm fairly certain had it not been for the design contest I would not have thought to look.
When I set out to design this poster I knew I wanted it to include images of many women in a collage-type format. The biggest challenge I faced was who to include. I decided I wanted this to be as inclusive as possible. Ideally I hoped that any woman who saw this poster would be able to relate to it in some way. This is what led me to choose women of various ages, levels of education, ethnicities and so on. It was also important to me to include women whose accomplishments themselves were varied.
Here is a list of all the women I chose to include in the final poster:
- Margaret Thatcher
- Valentina Tereshkova
- Frida Kahlo
- Mary Cassatt
- Ida B. Wells
- Kang Tongbi
- Sacagawea
- Marie Curie
- Harriet Tubman
- Indira Gandhi
- Emily Dickinson
- Suffragettes Annie Kenney and Christabel Pankhurst
The poster includes images of individual women who are depicted more or less after their own likenesses, with a few exceptions. I chose to include an iconic image of two women, suffragettes Annie Kenney and Christabel Pankhurst among so many individual portraits to convey the importance and power that can also come from working together for a common cause. It also seemed appropriate to include a quote from one of Emily Dickinson's poems, ("I dwell in possibility") since her particular legacy is one of words. Somewhat similarly, to represent artist Mary Cassatt, I chose to depict one of her famous works of art, which is titled "Mother and Child V."
This poster includes artists, civil rights activists, mothers, scientists and more. Some of these women are easily recognizable while others are not as well known. I thought it was important to include women who may not be as well remembered. This was done to give these women the recognition they deserve but also- and maybe more importantly -to express to the viewer that there are heroes everywhere. Some are remembered very well, some are not, but their actions continue to resonate within our society. We are all benefiting from their efforts- whether big or small!
The idea that I've been able to contribute to this celebration, and in my own way honor the women of the past is so thrilling for me!
What did the University of Memphis do to celebrate Women's History Month in 2014?
Student groups and academic departments across campus held events throughout the month, celebrating women and challenging audience members to inspire others. At our Opening Ceremony, we heard from Dr. Zandria Robinson about the challenges faced by feminists and why we need to emphasize intersectionality in order to make the world better for all women; At Sista Sista, we talked about challenges that young African American women face in today's society. At the screening of "Maestra", we learned about young women in Cuba who took it upon themselves to educate others. At Inspiring Women of the 1960s, we discovered how women writers, artists, and freedom fighters made America a better place for women to live; At The Dance Claimed Me: The Biography of Pearl Primus, we heard how Ms. Primus brought African traditions to the United States and shaped the field of anthropology along the way; At Living History: Women of the Sea Service, we honored the women veterans who broke down veterans through their service in the Navy. At The Perils of Pregnancy: Women's Reproductive Lives in Ancient Egypt, we saw how our understanding of women's bodies has changed through time. At Lunch with a Leader, we met influential women in the community and took inspiration from their stories, and at Who Am I?: Women Who Have Seen the Rough Side of the Mountain, we saw how strength show through women who have experienced homelessness.
As this year's celebration came to a close, we were so happy to have joined with students, faculty, and staff at U of M in celebration of the Inspiring Women in our community who make our lives better on a daily basis. However, we know there are many more Inspiring Women who deserve to be honored.
We encourage you to extend the celebration of Women's History Month throughout the year by saying thank you to women who have inspired you and taking on the challenge of being an inspiration to someone else!
Calendar of Events
March 3
Residence Life’s Pack the House for Women’s Basketball; 7:00 PM in the Field House
The Lady Tigers will be playing Cincinnati, and it’s important that everyone comes out to support them so that the U of M can win the Pack the House challenge by setting an attendance record! Let’s show everyone that the U of M is the best! Get your tickets at the Athletics website.
Performance by Simona Barbu (cello), and Nariaki Sugiura (piano); 7:30 PM in Harris Concert Hall
These two exceptional performers will put on a great event!
March 4
Sista, Sista; 6:00 PM in the UC River Room
A round table forum will discuss the various issues that young black women are faced with daily, as well as other important topics. It's important that we have lots of student participation for this event! Hosted by the Black Student Association.
March 5
Mr. Gentleman's Pageant; 7:00 PM in the UC Ballroom
The Mr. Gentleman's Pageant is a philanthropic showcase of fraternity men at the U of M. Men from the Interfraternity (IFC) & the National Pan-Hellenic (NPHC) councils will come together to display their talents and talk about the women who have made an impact on their lives. The winner of the pageant will help to present an award at the Closing Ceremony! Hosted by the All Unity Board.
March 6
Society of Female Transportation Professionals Blue Pump Gala; 5:30-8:30 PM in the Shelby Ballroom of the U of M Holiday Inn
This evening dinner scholarship fundraising event will provide an opportunity for women (and men) in the transportation and logistics fields and majors to meet, greet, and celebrate their industry. This event features the Assistant Secretary for Aviation and International Affairs in the United States Department of Transportation, Susan Kurland. Professional and student awards will be presented as well. Don't forget to wear your blue pumps! Sponsored by the Center for Advancement of Female Transportation Professionals and the Intermodal Freight Transportation Institute.
Why We Hate Black Women, and Why We Should Love Them; 6:00 PM in the UC Ballroom
Hasani Pettiford will be discussing topics from his recent book, Why We Hate Black Women and Why We Should Love Them. He will discuss negative societal images of African American women and how we can overcome them. Hosted by the National Pan-Hellenic Council.
Maestra: A Documentary on the 1961 Cuban Literacy Campaign; 6:00-8:00 PM in the Mitchell Hall Auditorium
The documentary tells the stories of the young women literacy workers who traveled across Cuba to teach and found themselves transformed in the process. The filmmaker, Catherine Murphy, will be present for Q&A. Sponsored by the Center for Research on Women, the Division of Public and Non-Profit Administration, the Department of Foreign Languages and Literatures (Spanish Section), the History Department, and the School of Urban Affairs and Public Policy.
March 12
Women's Volleyball, Tigers vs. Jackson State; 2:00 and 4:00 PM in the Field House
The Lady Tigers are playing Jackson State; come out and support them!
March 18
Inspiring Women of the 1960s; 11:30 AM to 1:30 in the McWherter Library Rotunda
Lively readings and performances (most by your fellow U of M students!) celebrate the women writers, artists, and freedom fighters of the '60s. See coverage in The Daily Helmsman for more information. Sponsored by University Libraries, the Department of English, the Department of History, and the Center for Research on Women.
Women's Volleyball, Tigers vs. Mississippi State; 4:00 PM in the Field House
The Lady Tigers will be playing Mississippi State; be sure to come out and support them!
March 19th
(*Feminist "Coming Out" Day & W.H.M. opening, rescheduled from March 3*)
Discussion: What is Feminism?; 12:00-12:30 PM in the UC Theatre
Dr. Zandria Robinson of the Sociology Department will give a short talk about the history of feminism and the women’s rights movement, and Dr. Christine Eisel of the History Department will present a short video montage made by her son called “The Other F-word” about feminism.
Feminism Fair; 12:30-1:30 PM on the Alumni Mall
There will be photo opportunities with the bronze statue of the Tom the Tiger as well as booths about women’s issues and upcoming Women’s History Month events. In case of inclement weather, the fair will be set up inside the UC. Sponsored by the Center for Research on Women, the History Department, African and African American Studies, Midday Moves, and the Alumni Association.
Wednesday Night Live: Comedienne Jessi Campbell; 7:00-8:00 PM in the UC River Room
Jessi Campbell will be performing her hilarious comedy act, as seen nationwide. Come out for an evening of laughs! Sponsored by the Student Activities Council.
The Dance Claimed Me: The Biography of Pearl Primus; 7:30-9:00 PM in the UC Theatre
Professors Peggy and Murray Schwartz will discuss the life of Trinadian born Pearl Primus (1919-1994) and her influences on American culture, dance, and education. Students from the Department of Theatre and Dance will perform a dance from the Primus repertoire, Bushache - Dance of War, Dance of Peace. The talk and performance will be followed by a book signing! Sponsored by the Department of Theatre and Dance and the African and African American Studies Program.
march 20
Spa Day at the Relaxation Zone; 10:00 AM to 2:00 in Wilder Tower Room 211
Get rid of leftover midterm stress in the Relaxation Zone!
march 21
Living History: Women of the Sea Service; 11:00 AM in the Veterans Center, Panhellenic 110
5 women veterans will tell stories about their service in the Navy before they will pass the flag from the youngest to the oldest veteran and present it to a representative of the U of M (called the Olde Glory Presentation). Sponsored by WAVES National Unit 151 the Memphis Belles.
The Perils of Pregnancy: Women's Reproductive Lives in Ancient Egypt; 12:30-1:45 PM in the Mitchell Hall Auditorium
Dr. Chrystal Goudsouzian of the History Department will give a lecture on women's reproductive lives in Ancient Egypt. Come learn about the beliefs of the Egyptians regarding conception, pregnancy, and childbirth and the spells that were used to protect women and children during these perilous events. Free pizza and drinks provided! Sponsored by Phi Alpha Theta and the History Department.
march 23
Circle of Sisterhood movie; 8:00 PM in the UC Theatre
Circle of Sisterhood is the University of Memphis Panhellenic Council Philanthropy, which is aimed to engage college women in the fight to make education a reality for women across the world. They will be showing "Half the Sky," a documentary that discusses women's issues around the world. Hosted by the Pan-Hellenic council.
march 24
The Educator, the Businesswoman, and the Girl of Questionable Parentage: New Research on the Women of the Mallory-Neely House; 5:00-6:00 PM at Mallory-Neely House, 652 Adams Avenue
A small tour group will tour the house and hear a history of the Kirtland and Babb women, members of the early families who lived there. Sponsored by the History Department and the Mallory-Neely House.
march 25
Lunch with a Leader; 2:30-2:00 PM in the UC Ballroom
Female students will be introduced to smart, successful women who are making a difference in our community. As students prepare to embark on their own professional journeys, this lunch will provide an opportunity for frank and honest conversation about challenges and lessons learned in the workplace. Join us for an open discussion about managing the work environment and charting a path for success. Business casual is the required dress, registration is required. Sponsored by Leadership Programs and Women's Leadership and Philanthropy Initiative.
Inspiring Women of West Tennessee at the U of M Lambuth Campus; 6:30 PM in the Jack Morris Ballroom in the Wilder Student Union
The keynote speaker of this event is former U of M President Shirley Raines, who is one of the most influential women in higher education in West Tennessee. Students and community members are welcome and encouraged to attend! Sponsored by the Lambuth Campus.
Scattered; 6:30 PM in TH 235 (Lab Theatre)
A presentation on the idea of fragmentation in theatre as a result of a scattered psyche. Sponsored by the Department of Theatre and Dance.
march 26
Women's Volleyball; 5:00 PM in the Field House
The Lady Tigers are playing Alabama A&M; come out and support them!
Chamber Music: A Sneak Peek Behind the Stage Curtain; 6:30-7:30 PM in TH 235 (Lab Theatre)
In a room with eight famous women, what do we find when we hold a mirror up to ourselves through the prism of time? What has changed; what's the same? A scene from Chamber Music by Arthur Kopit, followed by a discussion. Sponsored by the Department of Theatre and Dance.
Mona Lisa Smile; 7:00-9:00 PM in the UC Bluff Room
This movie is about a college professor in the 1950s who challenges her students to think about the role society is trying to push them into as wives and mothers. Sponsored by Residence Life and Dining Service
march 27
Who Am I?: Women Who Have Seen the Rough Side of the Mountain, presented by Active Minds; 6:00 PM in the Rose Theater
This play is based on the writings of homeless women living temporarily in the Salvation Army's Homeless Shelter, and it was conceptualized and compiled by Deborah Frazier, co-founder and Director of Blues City Cultural Center. The play deals with issues of the homeless, especially homeless women, and is performed by some of our own U of M students and women who have experienced homelessness. Afterwards, a meet and greet reception will be held so that students and faculty have the opportunity to ask questions and meet the artists, as well as a panel discussion. Sponsored by Active Minds, Memphis STEPS, Student Event Allocation, the Center for Research on Women, and the Blues City Cultural Center.
march 28
Women's Track and Field Memphis Invitational; Time TBA
Come out and support our Lady Tigers as they compete at home!
march 29
PAUSE 2014 Women's Conference; 9:00 AM to 3:00 in the UC
The sixth women's conference will host workshop tracks for women as well as one for
men. There will be a luncheon featuring speaker Mickele Carpenter, an executive recruiter
for Gap. Women who have helped to empower other women will be honored as well. Registration
is required; see https://www.memphis.edu/multiculturalaffairs/pausewc.php for more
information!
Sponsored by Professional Assertive Women of Excellence, Student Event Allocation,
and Career Services.
Women's Track and Field Memphis Invitational; Time TBA
Come out and support our Lady Tigers as they compete at home!
march 30
Women of Achievement; 4:00-7:00 PM at the U of M Holiday Inn
Women of Achievement is a celebration that honors the extraordinary women who have made Memphis and Shelby County better through their lives and accomplishments. This year marks the 30th anniversary, and seven local heroes will be honored. Registration is required.
March 31
Closing Reception; 2:00-4:00 PM in the Rose Theatre
This event will honor inspiring women nominated by members of the U of M family. President Brad Martin will give the opening remarks, and the featured speaker is Meri Armour, the President of LeBonheur Children's Hospital. The Mr. Gentleman's Pageant winner will help to present an award. (Honor an Inspiring Woman here, RSVP here). Sponsored by the Provost's Office, the College of Arts and Sciences, the College of Business, the English Department, the History Department, and Student Affairs