Staff at SHA participated in bringing awareness to Women’s History Month by organizing slideshows to display in Courageous Conversations and Griffin Group time.

SHA hosted an International Women’s Day slideshow presentation in Griffin Group on March 8. The slideshow emphasized the importance of inclusion for all women, including gender expressions such as Transwomen and Non-Binary Femmes.

“For awareness months, we focus on youth more to interest them,” says Kristy Synnott, student life director at SHA. “It’s more relevant to students if we highlight between historical figures and current figures.”

During the slideshow, students were asked questions about women’s history and stereotypes. There was a “brief history of International Women’s Day” slide that included what women have done from 1908- to 1975. Facts included women’s rights movements led by women and the first IWD (International Women’s Day) celebration in 1975.

Students were shown a music video on “Break the Bias,” the theme for International Women’s Day. Women often face a variety of biases such as not being able to fight or only being able to cook and clean.

“Imagine a gender-equal world. A world free of bias, stereotypes, and discrimination,” Emma Vanderpool wrote. “A world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive.”

The slides featured questions to think about and mini activities. Students were asked to write what type of biases they’ve heard about women or faced themselves. Many of the sticky notes included that women were expected to stay home to cook, clean, and take care of the kids. Other notes pointed out that women were seen as weak and bad drivers.

On March 10, SHA celebrated Women’s History Month along with International Women’s Day. SHA includes all women and gender expressions such as transwomen and non-binary femmes.

In the Courageous Conversations meeting prior to this event, students were taught about the difference between gender expression and biological sex. SHA welcomes gender expression, as it is a part of their identity. National Women’s History Month celebrates all women, transwomen, and non-binary femmes.

“At SHA we have this community where we’re free to be who we are,” sophomore Thalia Wright said. “We don’t have to fear being outed to family members and we’re supported.”