University Community Celebrates Women’s History Month

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – The month of March marks the 24^th anniversary of Women’s History Month, and the University of Arkansas Multicultural Center and the Women’s History Committee have organized several free public events to celebrate the lives and achievements of women across the world.

From March 7-31, University Programs and the Women’s History Committee will present an exhibit of the works of Brook Benham in the Anne Kittrell Gallery in the Arkansas Union. The exhibit will feature fashion as art in a display of signature pieces from her exceptional clothing lines. A reception will be held from 7-9 p.m. on Thursday, March 10. Benham will conduct a short presentation on the historical evolution of women’s clothing.

The International Women’s Day centennial celebration will be held from 12:30-1:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 8, in the Arkansas Union Connections Lounge. Women from around the world will gather for a fashion show and many other cultural performances. The public is invited. The event is sponsored by the international students and scholars office. 

The Women’s History Committee and the Students Celebrating Women’s History will host a Women’s Information Expo as an opportunity for campus and area organizations dedicated to women and women’s issues to network with each other. The Women’s Expo will be held in the Arkansas Union Connections Lounge from 11a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday, March 16.

The Multicultural Center and Women’s History Committee will complete the month’s events with a presentation by internationally acclaimed visual artist, musician and poet Charlotte Hill O’Neal, aka “Mama C”. She will perform from 6-8 p.m. on Thursday, March 31, at the Arkansas Union Theatre.

Mama C, author of Warrior Woman of Peace, published in 2008, was born in Kansas City in 1951 and has lived in Tanzania since 1972. Greatly influenced by the jazz, gospel and blues of Kansas City, Mama C uses her poetry and music as a creative expression of her heritage and as a way to encourage unity and solidarity among people from all walks of life.

The Women’s History Committee intends to honor the significant achievements of women throughout history as well as in the new millennium. Women of every race, class and ethnic background have always played a critical role in the economic, cultural and social well-being of communities around the world. Women’s History Month is a time to recognize and celebrate the women who have displayed persistence, courage and creativity while providing others with a source of strength and encouragement.