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Women and Gender

March is Women's History Month

Each time a girl opens a book and reads a womanless history,
she learns she is worth less.  – Myra Pollack Sadker

History helps us learn who we are, but when we don’t know our own history, our power and dreams are immediately diminished.

Recognizing the achievements of women in all facets of life – science, community, government, literature, art, sports, medicine – has a huge impact on the development of self-respect and new opportunities for girls and young women.

With an emphasis on positive role models and the importance of women from all backgrounds, the Office of Diversity and Inclusion encourages all of the Tarleton community to reach a better understanding of the critical link between knowing about historical women and making a positive difference in today’s world. 

The personal is powerful! The ODI encourages discovering stories about our mothers, grandmothers, and great grandmothers to help us better understand their lives, the challenges they faced, and ultimately, ourselves and our own times. Recognizing the dignity and accomplishments of women in our own families and those from other backgrounds leads to higher self-esteem among women and girls and greater respect among boys and men.  The results can be remarkable, from greater achievement by girls in school to less violence against women, and more stable and cooperative communities.

The impact of women’s history might seem abstract to some, and less pressing than the immediate struggles of working women today.  But to ignore the vital role that women’s dreams and accomplishments play in our own lives would be a great mistake.  We draw strength and inspiration from those who came before us – and those remarkable women working among us today.  They are part of our story, and a truly balanced and inclusive history recognizes how important women have always been in American society.  Our History is our strength.

Adapted from “Why Women’s History?” National Women’s History Project (with permission)

Sexism

Sexism is an ideology based on patriarchy, and it maintains beliefs and practices that relegate women to a subordinate position. Sexism also deprives women of equal economic, political and social opportunities. Many roles are restricted in society and at home for women. It does not accord women the same power, privileges and opportunities that a man enjoys in society.

Forum on Gender

Resources and Links