Campus Engagement #1

         For my first campus engagement event I attended a lecture given by Gloria Steinem. I had heard of Gloria Steinem before, and I was really excited to hear her speak. She is so iconic and I can’t believe that I had the privilege of hearing her in such an intimate setting. After the even I told my parents who I had heard speak and they were even more excited than I had been. As this is an election year, and the election is only a few weeks away Ms. Steinem began her lecture by discussing her role as a political activist for women’s rights. She explained that “women did not leave the Republican Party, the Republican Party left them.” This was an interesting remark that she made, as most people do not associate women’s right with a conservative movement. However, she explained that over time as the Republican Party moved farther right so did their opinions on women’s rights. She went on to discuss the importance of voting, and the importance of activism in general.

Ms. Steinman also gave the analogy that this country is like a bird. Men and women represent the wings of the bird; and without one or the other, the bird cannot fly. She spoke beautifully about her experience as a feminist and her journey through the world of women studies. Ms. Steinem also briefly mentioned sexually violence, and harassment. She said that the most violent countries are those that are most violet towards women. I was glad she discussed violence against women as it is one of the most important topics.

She spoke about her childhood and how at a young age she was fascinated with sex and gender. She began a question and answer period where people in the audience stood and asked her questions. Everyone was so excited to be in the same room as Gloria Steinem, you could tell by the smiles and the energy in the room. Audience members asked questions that were all over the place. Ranging from how to change the stigma of feminism, and how to be a campus activist.  

Gloria Steinem is a true legend. She has done more for women’s rights and gender activism than almost anyone else. She is a celebrity in her own right, and she represents intelligence, grace, and acceptance. Hearing Gloria Steinem speak on my own college campus is something I will always remember.