Bemidji State University opened its doors to the public for a special keynote presentation and dinner in honor of Women’s History Month on March 30 in BSU’s Beaux Arts Ballroom.

The evening began with an opening address by Dr. Jozie Nummi, assistant professor of sociology and gender and women’s studies, and Chrissy Downwind, executive director of the American Indian Resource Center, who welcomed the 75 faculty, staff, students and community members in attendance. BSU students Kaitlyn Zaic and Tanner Piepkorn shared original poetry with the audience.

Following dinner and greetings from BSU Associate Professor of Sociology Dr. Rucha Ambikar and BSU President Dr. John Hoffman, keynote speaker Dr. Maria Bevacqua, professor of gender and women’s studies at Minnesota State University Mankato, took the stage.

Bevacqua’s presentation, titled “Gender Justice and the Supreme Court,” covered the historical challenges that impact women’s equality and offered insight on what can be done to continue that pursuit of equality.

Thursday’s keynote presentation and dinner wrapped a Women’s History Month filled with educational opportunities coordinated by BSU faculty and staff aimed at honoring women-led movements for equality and addressing missing and murdered Indigenous women and women and members of the queer community experiencing discrimination, sexual harassment and oppression.

“Through film discussions, a music lounge, power walks, faculty lectures and artwork, we have explored the myriad of ways in which women can tell our stories and work together to better our lives,” said Dr. Donna Pawlowski, chair of sociology and communication studies and member of the university’s Women’s History Month planning committee.

The event was free and open to the public.