Women’s Day inspires

Tuesday, March 20, 2018

The Advocate – By Jshania Owens

Students, faculty and staff came together to celebrate International Women’s Day presented by the political science department and Community Organizing Political Action Club (COPA) to commemorate the women of yesterday and today who have made an impact in their communities and in society.

Political science department Chairperson Vanna Gonzales began the event in GE-225 with the history of International Women’s Day, which highlights the struggle against gender discrimination and the triumphs leading to equality among women around the world.

Gonzales introduced keynote speaker Tirien Steinbach, executive director of the East Bay Community Law Center.

Steinbach shared her journey as a lawyer in a male-dominated profession, detailing her experiences like facing discrimination and overcoming the struggle.

“Fight for inclusion, not for just women’s issues,” she said. “We all have work to do. We need to find ways to impact our lives and the lives around us.”

The #MeToo movement, started by Tarana Burke on social media to help demonstrate the widespread prevalence of sexual harassment and assault, was also discussed.

Steinbach said that it was important to educate boys and men about the movement.

“We have to speak out for marginalized women, women of color, trans women, minorities,” she said.