International Women's Day: Inspire Inclusion!
At the University of Twente, we are proud to embrace the spirit of International Women's Day, a global celebration that transcends boundaries and celebrates the diverse contributions of women. This day is not just about women; it's about celebrating individuality, breaking free from stereotypes, and recognizing the importance of diversity in shaping our collective future.
Like last year, various groups across our university have collaborated to create a unique celebration, highlighting the strength that comes from inclusiveness. International Women's Day is a call to action, a reminder that everyone, regardless of gender, has a role in promoting equality. It's an opportunity to reflect on the progress and work ahead, fostering a culture where differences are valued and celebrated.
This year, from March 4 to 8, we will host a series of permanent experiences across campus and also some engaging events. We aim to provide a platform for diverse voices and perspectives, showcasing the multifaceted nature of women's roles and experiences and of course, start and continue the discussion with everyone!
WEEKLONG EXPERIENCES:
Location One – Ravelijn - Art Exhibition: (4th – 7th March)
In the Shadows of Norms: Where femininity and masculinity meet...
We are holding an exhibition exploring nature, beauty and challenges of embracing the masculine and feminine energies which surround us. Although we are often made to fit into gendered boxes within society, at our core separate from social constructs, we all possess these energies within us. Thus, the focus of this exhibition will be to celebrate and embrace all energies and allow them to flourish. We aim to address this from a feminist perspective and bring awareness to how gendered norms have limited us in different ways and how feminism allows us to break out from these boxes. Annemiek Punt, internationally recognized as the best Dutch glass artists, believed in our goal and will also participate in this exhibition.
This art exhibition is organized by Ambitious Women UT and Amnesty UTwente.
Location Two - Carré: Exposition (6th – 8th March)
Women 360 °- A Celebration of Diversity
From 6 to 8 March 2024, a variety of exhibitions around the theme 'Women 360' will be shown at Carré throughout the upstairs hallway. With different portraits, illustrations and research examples, we want to celebrate the unique and diverse faces that women have in different aspects of life. In a woman’s life, wearing different hats within their 'roles' is a common occurrence. One part of the exposition pays tribute to different roles women at the UT have by sharing their stories and giving examples of their work. Another part of the exhibition highlights research and technology development around Women's Health currently being performed at UT to meet women's health needs and improve their wellbeing.
We strive to be a university where differences are valued and celebrated, and we invite you to give your input on the theme in the exhibition. This exhibition is a collaboration between the Female Faculty Network Twente (FFNT), Support Staff Female Network (OBP-VN) and Technology for Women’s Health.
Events:
“Lecture & film: Men are no heroes” Tuesday 5 March 2024 19:30 - 21:00
The tough cowboy, the cruel mob boss. Sure, such stereotypes exist in films. Astonishingly often, however, Maaike Meijer discovered the opposite: outspoken anti-heroes who do not fit the prevailing social image of masculinity. The Dude in The Big Lebowsky, the main characters in One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest, Casablanca and in TV series like The Bridge and Borgen. She analyses film clips about the 'suffering' man. Dr Maaike Meijer is emeritus professor of Gender Studies, biographer and publicist. Among other works, she wrote the book Radeloze helden. De verbeelding van mannelijkheid in literatuur en film. The program will be in Dutch.
This event is organized by Studium Generale. More information can be found here.
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Events organized by Amnesty UTwente and Ambitious Women UT:
Poster Making for Women's Day March - 7th of March
Join us and use your creativity to make your poster/banner for the women's day march on March 8th!
Women's Day March - 8th of March 6 PM
On International Women’s Day, March 8th, people from all walks of life will come together to celebrate women and create unison in the fight for gender equality and justice! We want to shed light on the needs of different women and their unique yet reocurring fight against violence, prejudice and discrimination. We want to give a voice to the women who got theirs taken away. Let’s unite to celebrate women and empower our generation towards a more inclusive and equitable future for all.
Beyond Gender: Where Femininity and Masculinity Meet Exhibition and Performances in the City Center at Spacebar - 8th of March 8:00 - 11:00 PM
The exhibition presented at Ravelijn is just a snippet of the exhibition which will be presented at Spacebar in its full glory. An exhibition which will be opened with heart felt performances including; dance, poetry, singing, etc. Amidst a world often confined by societal norms, this showcase celebrates the inherent duality within us all, transcending limitations and fostering an environment where every aspect of self can flourish. With a feminist lens, it boldly examines how gendered constructs have shaped and constrained our perceptions, inviting viewers to explore, reflect, and envision a more inclusive future.
Beyond Gender After Party at Spacebar 8th of March 11:00 PM - 5:00 AM
To top it all off we will celebrate with an After Party in Spacebar where we will have the best underground DJs in Enschede playing b2b all night long! The party will be curated as a safe space with house rules, floor angels, and angel shots to make sure you can enjoy your night to the fullest!
Everyone is invited!
We invite everyone to participate in this celebration of diversity, where differences are not just acknowledged but celebrated. Together, let us contribute to a university community that values and respects everyone for who they are.
Happy International Women's Day!
The joint celebration of International Women’s Day at University of Twente is organized by Amnesty Utwente, Ambitious Women UT, DE&I Team, EQUITY (P-NUT), Female Faculty Network Twente, Studium Generale, Technology for Women’s Health and OBP Vrouwennetwerk.
