March. It brings warmer weather, lots of rain, and the promise of the nearing end of the school year. It is also Women’s History Month, a time to celebrate women’s experiences, achievements, and ability to overcome the special types of adversity that come with being a woman.
Etown has set up numerous exhibits and events in appreciation of Women’s History Month. The celebrations kicked off on February 26 with the Monday Series Concert titled “Women Sing.” Most weeks, Etown will have a Monday Series Concert, in which a musician or group of musicians will be invited to perform at the Leffler Chapel and Performance Center. At “Women Sing,” Anne Gross sang pieces written by women composers from a range of time periods. Anyone could watch the concert free of charge.
On the walls of the first floor of the Bowers Center for Sports, Fitness and Wellbeing are flyers depicting famous women who have overcome adversity or have otherwise led inspiring lives. These stories exemplify women’s capability for innovation and leadership. They will be on display for the month of March.
The High Library’s Hess Archives has provided media such as interviews, letters, diaries and photographs that portray women from the Etown community and the Church of the Brethren from as far back as the 1930s.
You can read about Karen M. Johnson-Weiner, who interacted with women from different Amish and Mennonite communities to learn about their experiences in a society that is so different from our own, yet also right next door.
You can also read the letters that were sent to Ira R. Herr from her former students who were then serving in World War II. The “Dear Coach” collection depicts a deep mutual respect between these women who were all doing their part to serve the United States during the war.
Why is it important to acknowledge Women’s History Month? Gabrielle Reed, the Title IX Coordinator, says that the campus community can experience a variety of benefits. For example, women can be more comfortable sharing their experiences, and their diverse perspectives on certain issues can be heard.
“Women’s experiences are diverse and multifaceted, encompassing a range of backgrounds, identities, and perspectives,” Reed said. “By listening to these experiences, the College community can gain a deeper understanding of the diverse challenges and triumphs that women encounter in higher education.”
Part of the beauty of being human is that no two people have the same experiences; this is even more true when the two people are of the opposite sex. Throughout American history, women’s voices have often times been silenced, and women have not always been able to speak as freely as they can today. Even today, many women feel uncomfortable sharing their stories for fear of judgment from others. That is why it is important to have an open ear to others’ diverse experiences– we all have something to learn from them.
History has shown that women have the power to activate change on a global level. For this reason, Reed believes that acknowledging women’s unique perspectives can benefit Etown as a whole.
“Women’s voices have historically driven social and cultural change, and their experiences in higher education can serve as catalysts for positive transformation within the college community.” Said Reed. “By listening to women’s stories, colleges can identify areas for improvement and implement initiatives that promote gender equity, diversity, and inclusion.”
Perhaps above all else, Women’s History Month is important because it gives us a special opportunity to promote gender equality. Everyone deserves to be treated equally, seen equally, and heard equally.
“Overall, listening to women’s experiences with higher education enriches the college community by promoting inclusivity, empowerment, understanding and positive change.” Said Reed. “It fosters a supportive and equitable environment where all members can thrive and succeed.”
