Women's Center: About the Center
Mission
Founded in 1974, the Women's Center was established to:
- Dismantle, from a feminist perspective, all forms of oppression, including but not limited to those based on ability, age, class, ethnicity, gender, race, and sexual orientation.
- Advocate for an equitable environment free from violence and harassment based on gender, race, and sexual orientation.
- Create an anti-racist, non-sexist, queer-affirmative space where all people can feel valued and safe.
- Facilitate and strengthen connections among people across lines of difference through programming and educational campaigns.
- Integrate an appreciation of Women's, Gender and Multicultural Studies across the disciplines.
Why do we need a Women's Center
Because according to the U.S. Department of Justice, 3% of women on college campuses are sexually assaulted each year. At Ramapo College, this translated approximately 65 women each year. The Women's Center runs a free, confidential 24 hour hotline for supervisors of sexual assault: just call extension 7222 for help.
Because feminism did not go out of style with bell bottoms- women still make an average of 78 cents on a man's dollar for doing the same exact work, and many of us know that double standards for men and women are rampant. The Women's Center promotes equality and is home to the Feminists United Club which meets Thursdays at 1:00 p.m.
Because in 2009 women still only make up 16% of congress and the U.S. ranks #69 among countries with the highest percentage of women in government. The Women's Center promotes women's education and leadership with an annual leadership retreat.
Because there are approximately 8 million people suffering from anorexia nervosa in the U.S. and 90% of them are women. The Women's Center hosts a weekly Body Image Awareness Support Group.
Because Women' issues are everyone's issues! We welcome everyone (men included!) to come learn more about the issues and get involved. We provide a place to meet and socialize, get confidential support, and become and active leader!
