Women Who Advocate for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Women Who Advocate for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Women’s History Month 2024
This Women’s History Month, we honor “women who advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion” (National Women’s History Alliance).
Womanhood is more than just an identity; it embodies proactivity, friendship, and limitlessness. As women who advocate for DEI, we are unafraid to challenge the status quo and cultivate safe spaces for all in our day-to-day lives. Alhough society has progressed towards becoming more egalitarian, it is undeniable that unequal power dynamics persist in our societal landscape. Sometimes, we may not realize these structures because inequity can be ingrained within our cultural norms.
Combating the inequities that permeate our daily lives starts with the regular conversations we share with each other. For the past 22 years, I’ve been fortunate enough to find female friendships with those who advocate for diversity, and I am beyond grateful and excited to initiate these important conversations during Women’s History Month.
Here are what these 10 inspiring Boston University women said when asked, “Why is it so important for women to advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion?”
“As a woman, it is important to advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion because it helps ensure that our voices and experiences are heard and valued, and ultimately helps break down systemic barriers. Doing so helps create a world where opportunity and success are not dictated by gender but by talent, effort, and ambition!”
—Naomi Downing (CAS’24)
“Historically, women have been significantly underrepresented in professional and academic settings. I think that’s exactly why women must lead the way in pushing for diversity, equity, and inclusion. We can’t change the past, but there’s a chance to shape the future and make a change here in the present. DEI is about inspiring women to see themselves not just as participants, but as strong women capable of driving innovation and changing the world.”
—Grace Kim (COM’24)
“I think it’s important because as women, we all face barriers in our society, but because of intersectionality, some women face even more discrimination against them. We need to protect and speak of the people who have and will create our generations.”
—Juliana Sena (CAS’24)
“In a society that has been male-dominated for centuries, it’s crucial for women to support and empower each other in the world. Every female’s body and mind is so powerful, but is often ignored. Women need to advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion to allow each woman’s unique capabilities to thrive in society.”
—Patricia Rueckert (Sargent’25)
“All advocacy is interconnected. Women have historically been oppressed in countless damaging ways, but that oppression continues to be compounded as people are part of more marginalized groups. Being a plus-size queer woman, I feel the effects of these intersections of my identities in the discrimination I face, and the same (and more) rings true for women of color, women with disabilities, etc. As women, we are all united in our struggles, and need to use that common motivation to uplift other women in that struggle, no matter their situation or identity.
For one of many examples, abortion rights are under attack in this country. In addition to this, the most abortions in the United States are obtained by minority women and people for a variety of systemic reasons (Guttmacher Institute). This means that while we all will feel the effects of these harmful laws and legislations, people of color will feel the effects more, and consequently need our advocacy more than ever. This means making ourselves uncomfortable, continuing to educate ourselves and others, putting our money where our mouth is, and showing up when it’s needed. Our determination and impact as women is undeniable, and by speaking on the integral nature of diversity and equity, we can help everyone feel accepted and empowered in the spaces we populate and build a stronger community.”
—Melaina (Lainey) Roberto (COM’24)
“Advocating for diversity, equity, and inclusion is crucial for women as it ensures equal opportunities for all. It empowers women to break through historical barriers and paves the way for a more inclusive society where every voice is heard and valued. Especially for immigrants and underrepresented groups, women’s advocacy promotes a sense of belonging and contributes to dismantling systemic inequalities. This advocacy opens doors to new opportunities for advancement and leadership, particularly in areas where women, immigrants, and underrepresented groups have been historically overlooked. By championing these values, women lead by example, fostering a world that celebrates diversity and thrives on the strength of its differences.”
—Sisi Amara (Questrom’24)
“I think it’s really important for women to advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion because at one point we, as women, were put in a position where the structures around us were hindering our rights as human beings. Unfortunately, it still happens to people of color and other social groups who are coming from a history of oppression. The structural violence that women have experienced is a reason why women should continue to advocate for those who are experiencing marginalization.”
—Marianna Torres (COM’24)
“Women must advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion to ensure that all voices are heard and represented. Advocating for DEI brings us one step closer to dismantling the systems that have so often discriminated against women and other marginalized communities, creating a better world for ourselves and future generations.”
—Lily Segal (COM’24)
“Women have a voice, and we should be able to use it wherever and whenever. When women advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion, we are not just marking off checkboxes, but rather speaking up for those who feel excluded or ignored. I really [concur] with Ruth Bader Ginsburg when she said, “Women belong in all places where decisions are being made.” It shows the importance of creating this fair and safe environment. Women should feel inspired and empowered to step out of the box and try new things. We shouldn’t limit ourselves, not in this society.”
—Geneva Thai (COM‘24)
“Seeing how the world has historically limited women’s career options, through governmental and societal constructs, advocating for ourselves in terms of diversity, equity, and inclusion continues to make an impact. A large portion of society still possesses the underlying view that women are not good at, or should not be able to do, various jobs, sports, and other male-dominated activities. Advocacy draws attention to these issues, which as a result opens the door to more equal opportunities for women.”
—Sajni Patel (Sargent’24)
For Women’s History Month, let’s be unafraid to challenge or question the status quo, and we can do this simply by showing up as advocates during our daily interactions. This is for all the women out there. Every month is the month for women!
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