Women's Studies Society: Back, Busy, and Ballsy (pardon the pun)

by Amanda BULMAN

Many students have noticed the recent return and revitalization of several on campus groups that were less visible in previous years. The UPEI Women’s Studies Society is one of those groups. With a new roster of enthusiastic members it’s proving to be one the most active, political , creative and outspoken groups around. Members have already been hosting events and planning activities that manage to simultaneously promote feminist issues and fun. Senior chair member of the WSS Erica Van Driel thinks that a more visible society ultimately reflects a growing interest in the field of Women’s Studies,
“I think Women’s Studies is growing because women are finding a voice and finding each other and engaging in new discussions,” Van Driel said, “The WSS gives people interested in women studies events a place to gather and share .”
Already this year, the Women’s Studies Society has hosted a small back to school party and a film night followed by discussion that is part of an ongoing series geniusly entitled “Babes Beyond Borders”. Van Driel asserts that these events are just the beginning and that the WSS has many excellent activities planned.
“Babes Beyond Borders is my favourite activity that we’re doing. The films we watch feature women who challenge the prescribed gender roles and expectations laid out for them by society. We’re also planning on doing a food and toy drive closer to Christmas and we are working on organizing a road race entitled ‘The Feminist Five K’. Next semester we’re planning a wine and cheese, a coffee house, and a continuation of our film series.”
The group is also determined to change the negative way in which students often view the field of Women’s Studies.
“People who assume that Women’s Studies majors are man hating dykes need to do some research before making such outdated comments. Women’s Studies is about open-mindedness and social constructionist perspectives. It’s about challenging stereotypes not adhering to them. I would invite anyone who is confused about women’s studies to society events and to ask questions rather than jump to conclusions.”
The next Women’s Studies event is on Halloween with a showing of the Rocky Picture Horror show. To get in contact with the WSS or to get involved add the WSS on facebook, or check out the blog womensstudiessociety@blogspot.com