ABQ Times

The University of New Mexico (UNM) is marking Women's History Month with a variety of events and initiatives aimed at celebrating the contributions of women to history and society. This tradition began 45 years ago when women's organizations across the United States successfully petitioned President Jimmy Carter for national recognition.

According to the National Women's History Museum, the celebration originated in Santa Rosa, California, as a weeklong event that coincided with International Women’s Day on March 8. The University continues this tradition by honoring women who have made significant impacts within the Lobo community.

The Department of Anthropology at UNM dedicates a webpage annually to Women's History Month, highlighting various aspects such as women pioneers in anthropology and related research. Among the campus programs dedicated to these efforts are:

- The Women, Gender & Sexuality Studies Program led by Dr. Sarah Davis-Secord focuses on intersections between identity, power, and knowledge towards social justice.

- The Women’s Resource Center directed by Áine McCarthy provides advocacy and support using an intersectional feminist model.

- The Feminist Research Institute under Francisco J. Galarte aims to foster scholarship on women, gender, and sexuality.

The Division for Equity and Inclusion supports equity through partnerships that promote diversity as an asset. Similarly, the LGBTQ Resource Center offers services across gender identities through advocacy and education.

Various events are scheduled throughout March including book signings, celebrations at cultural centers, awards ceremonies recognizing New Mexico Women in Tech, and discussions about historical topics related to women's rights.

Notable scholars from UNM include Florence Hawley Ellis who was among the first female anthropologists in the U.S., Frances Hayashida known for her work in Latin American archaeology, Jennifer Nez Denetdale who advocates for Navajo women’s rights, Kathy Powers researching international law's effects on human rights, and Assata Zerai whose interests lie in environmental justice activism.

For more details on Women’s History Month activities at UNM or resources available during this period visit UNM Anthropology online.