Western Courier

Issue date: 3/9/05 Section: News

To promote the importance of women's social, political and economical contributions to American society, Western Illinois University and women all over the nation will come together during the month of March to observe National Women's History Month.

This year's theme at Western, "Women Change America Through Civic Engagement," honors and recognizes the significant contributions women have made to the advancement and diversification of American society.

In 1987, the National Women's History Project petitioned Congress to expand the national celebration from one week to the entire month of March. Since then, organizations, communities and classrooms across the country have used the month of March to increase the awareness and knowledge of women's history.

According to Janine Cavicchia, Women's Center director, Women's History Month provides an opportunity to highlight, celebrate and recognize the role of American women in transforming our culture, history and politics.

"In 1980, less than 3 percent of the content of school textbooks mentioned the contributions of women," Cavicchia said. "For most students, based on their textbooks, women's work and accomplishments were not central to the telling of our nation's history. While this is improving, we still have a way to go before gender equity is achieved," Cavicchia added.

There are several other events, including exhibits and displays, scheduled during the month of March and throughout the month of April, both on campus and in the Macomb community. A complete listing of all scheduled events can be found on calendars posted around campus, in the community and on the Women's Center Web site at www.wc.wiu.edu

Cavicchia said she believes that the purpose of Women's History Month is not to idealize women, but to present a more authentic view of history and to recognize women as leaders, writers, scientists, educators, artists and informed citizens.

"Women's History Month programs and activities provide an opportunity for students, faculty, staff and community members to learn more about how women have changed America and how they will continue to do so," she said.

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