Students gathered in the Women’s Center lounge on October 3 for the first Feminist Friday of the semester; a recurring series dedicated to advancing gender equity and inclusion across campus. Sponsored by the Diversity Center, Women’s Center, and Gender and Sexuality Student Services (GSSS), this edition celebrated Hispanic/Latinx Heritage Month (HLHM) and Queertober.
The event featured a short documentary on women’s rights and reproductive freedom across Latinx and Hispanic countries, followed by an interactive trivia game highlighting the achievements of influential Latina women in law, medicine, and activism. The activities encouraged learning and dialogue, linking cultural heritage to broader discussions of feminism and equity.
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, National Hispanic Heritage Month, observed from September 15 to October 15, honors the histories, cultures, and contributions of Americans with roots in Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. The celebration began in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon Johnson and was expanded to a month by President Ronald Reagan in 1988 through Public Law 100-402. September 15 marks the independence anniversaries of Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua, with Mexico and Chile celebrating soon after.
Dre Duvendack, Program Coordinator for GSSS and Interim Program Director of the Women’s Center, reflected on the meaning behind the series’ title.
“Feminism to me is honestly a personal journey for every individual to determine,” Duvendack said. “It’s about folks coming to the table and talking about how we can work together so that everyone can thrive.”
Feminist Friday events are designed to create open, inclusive spaces where students, staff, and faculty can engage with topics surrounding gender, identity, and social equity. Each session maintains a casual, conversation-based format and is open to all members of the UIS community. Light snacks, refreshments, and a raffle added to the welcoming atmosphere.
Duvendack also previewed upcoming sessions, including “Feminist Icons Beyond the Grave” and “A Royal Touch: Design Your Reign,” a craft-based event where students will decorate crowns for the Alternative Prom.
Through engaging programming like Feminist Friday, the UIS Women’s Center and its partners continue to foster community, celebrate diversity, and promote meaningful conversations around inclusion and empowerment.
The series continues through the fall semester with sessions scheduled for October 17, October 31, and November 14. Students interested in co-hosting a session in spring 2026 or learning more about upcoming events can contact the Women’s Center at [email protected].
