Celebrating Women Who Advocate for Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion
Governors State University (GovState) is celebrating women, past and present, and acknowledging women’s vital role in shaping American History.
Women’s History Month began as a weeklong proclamation in 1980 by President Jimmy Carter. While women have made significant advancements economically and politically since the country’s founding, gender discrimination, and sexism still create social and economic barriers.
This year’s national theme is “Women Who Advocate for Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion.” This theme recognizes and celebrates the invaluable contributions of women who passionately advocate for equity, diversity, and inclusion within our academic community and beyond. These individuals play a crucial role in fostering an environment that is representative, respectful, and supportive of diverse perspectives.
Our commitment to cultivating a diverse and inclusive university community is fortified by the tireless efforts of women who champion the principles of equity and justice. We acknowledge the importance of their advocacy in creating an atmosphere where all members – regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, socioeconomic background, or any other characteristic – feel heard, valued, and included.
Women leaders in the GovState community are instrumental in promoting policies and initiatives that address systemic barriers, promote equal opportunities, and ensure that everyone has access to the resources and support needed to thrive. By amplifying the voices of women advocating for equity, diversity, and inclusion, we aim to build a university community that reflects the richness of human diversity and prepares our students for a globalized and interconnected world.
We stand united with these women advocates, recognizing that their dedication and passion contribute significantly to the advancement of our university’s core values. Through collaborative efforts, we will continue to strive for a campus environment that embraces diversity, fosters inclusivity, and values the unique perspectives and experiences that everyone brings to our academic community.
Every March, GovState intentionally coordinates efforts across the community to celebrate women’s historical contributions and host programs that envision how we can achieve a gender-equal world. Visit the DEI webpage for details about the upcoming Women’s History Month Tea.
Joi F. Patterson, Ph.D.
Chief Diversity Officer
Governors State University