(Megan Zendek/ Fourth Estate)
Basma Humadi, Staff Writer
Since 1987, the month of March has been dedicated to Women’s History Month, which includes International Women’s Day on March 8. March is a month-long ode to the contributions women have made throughout history and continue to make today.
This year, as declared by the National Women’s History Project, the theme is “Working to Form a More Perfect Union: Honoring Women in Public Service and Government.” Women have made many strides to get to where they are today, such as receiving the right to vote. Yet in some parts of the world today, women still don’t have that right.
Women’s History Month celebrates the progress women have made and also acknowledges that there is more to be done.
In honor of this month, many of Mason’s organizations have planned events in celebration. Here are some events to check out:
Empowerment for Women: How to Succeed in Any Endeavor Through Pride, Passion, and a Positive Attitude
Wednesday, March 16, from 12-1 p.m.
Merten Hall, Room 1204
In honor of Women’s History Month, Mason’s Working Mom Group has invited guest speaker Elaine Espinola Keltz. Keltz is Mrs. District of Columbia America 2015 and was noted as one of the Washington Business Journal’s “People on the Move” for 2015. She is a stay-at-home mother and a businesswoman. She is a representative for Younique makeup products and oversees a large sales team while also working as a licensed Zumba Kids instructor. She will be giving a speech on empowerment and on paving the path towards a successful life.
Women in War History and “Comfort Women”
Wednesday, March 16, from 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
HUB Ballroom
This event features guest speakers, art exhibitions, a short animated documentary screening, and so much more. From 10 a.m.-2 p.m. there will be art exhibitions, button-making, “butterflies for hope” drawings, and booths from local organizations. From 2 p.m.-5 p.m. there will be a testimonial and Q&A session from former South Korean ‘comfort woman’ Lee Yongsoo. There will also be speeches from other guest speakers, a “One Heart Ritual” from artist Shine Shin-Kim, and the screening of the short animated documentary “Herstory.” This event is a great way to understand the role women played in previous wars as well as meet other women artists who wish to share their stories.
History of Women’s Leadership
Thursday, March 17, from 7-8 p.m.
The Network of Enlightened Women (NeW) club at Mason will be hosting Professor Jennifer Ritterhouse as she gives a short lecture on the history of women’s leadership in the United States. If you’re unfamiliar with women’s history, this is a great way to get a basic understanding of the contributions women made to America.
Make Your Own Damn Sandwich
Monday, March 21, from 12 p.m.-2 p.m.
Research Hall 163
Hosted by the Women and Gender Studies Center, this event focuses on sexism in colleges campuses. Students will be able to interact with each other and eat as they make sandwiches. Each topping will be a station which will hold a mini discussion on an aspect of sexism on college campuses. You get to learn while you snack — what could be better?
Open Mic Night: To Conclude Women’s History Month
Thursday, March 31, from 7 p.m.-10 p.m.
Johnson Center Bistro
As a conclusion to the last day of Women’s History Month, there will be an Open Mic Night. Feel free to stop by and watch, or even perform any pieces you may have. There will be pizza and coffee.
International Women’s Day Street Art
Union Market in Washington, D.C.
Although this is not an event hosted by Mason, the street artist Mr. Brainwash recently unveiled numerous colorful and inspiring murals near Union Market in honor of International Women’s Day, which was March 8. First Lady Michelle Obama even stopped by, as the street art was in honor of her Let Girls Learn program — a program dedicated to giving girls around the world the chance to receive an education. The First Lady’s signature can even be found next to one of the murals. This is a great way to show support for Women’s History Month as well as to snap some Instagram-worthy pictures.
