thedrifter
08-28-03, 05:55 AM
MFR celebrates Women's Equality Day
Submitted by: Marine Forces Reserve
Story Identification Number: 2003826163050
Story by Cpl. Lana D. Waters
MARINE FORCES RESERVE, New Orleans(August 26, 2003) -- Dozens of servicemembers and civilians flocked to the Port-O-Call here, and were enlightened by the stories of several guest speakers during the Women's Equality Day celebration Aug. 12.
Some of the topics discussed at the forum, presented by the Marine Forces Reserve Ethnic Observance Committee, included firsts for women in the military as well as testimonials from two female Marines on their own battles and struggles for women's rights in the military.
"There was no instant acceptance," said Col. Bonnie J. Robison, assistant chief of staff, 4th Marine Aircraft Wing, as she recalled her experiences as a pioneer in the Marine Corps aviation field. Robison said when she checked into her first unit in 1975, no one knew how to act around her, because she was the first female to join the unit. With a lot of persistence and dedication, however, Robison proved she could do the job as well as any man, and the Marines soon accepted and welcomed her.
"I never felt left out," she said.
Although Robison's own struggle for equality happened only 30 years ago, women have been fighting for equal rights since the mid-1800's. MSgt. Jacqueline J. Bazile, equal opportunity advisor, 4th Force Service Support Group, said it wasn't until Aug. 26, 1920, however, that the 19th amendment was passed, allowing women to vote.
Bazile recalled her own struggles and triumphs in the Corps, citing her many accomplishments on promotion boards and how she excelled over most of her male colleagues.
The Women's Equality Day celebration wasn't just about the military, however. Dr. Margaret Ingram King, associate vice president for student affairs and director of the career services center, Tulane University, was the keynote speaker for the event. She spoke about how gender roles have changed in the last 40 years and why it's important to celebrate Women's Equality Day.
"Tradition tells us who we are and what we are supposed to do," said King. "That's why it's important to celebrate the things important to us."
Women's Equality Day is celebrated nationally on Aug. 26, to commemorate the passage of the 19th amendment, and was first declared a holiday in 1971.
Sempers,
Roger
:marine:
Submitted by: Marine Forces Reserve
Story Identification Number: 2003826163050
Story by Cpl. Lana D. Waters
MARINE FORCES RESERVE, New Orleans(August 26, 2003) -- Dozens of servicemembers and civilians flocked to the Port-O-Call here, and were enlightened by the stories of several guest speakers during the Women's Equality Day celebration Aug. 12.
Some of the topics discussed at the forum, presented by the Marine Forces Reserve Ethnic Observance Committee, included firsts for women in the military as well as testimonials from two female Marines on their own battles and struggles for women's rights in the military.
"There was no instant acceptance," said Col. Bonnie J. Robison, assistant chief of staff, 4th Marine Aircraft Wing, as she recalled her experiences as a pioneer in the Marine Corps aviation field. Robison said when she checked into her first unit in 1975, no one knew how to act around her, because she was the first female to join the unit. With a lot of persistence and dedication, however, Robison proved she could do the job as well as any man, and the Marines soon accepted and welcomed her.
"I never felt left out," she said.
Although Robison's own struggle for equality happened only 30 years ago, women have been fighting for equal rights since the mid-1800's. MSgt. Jacqueline J. Bazile, equal opportunity advisor, 4th Force Service Support Group, said it wasn't until Aug. 26, 1920, however, that the 19th amendment was passed, allowing women to vote.
Bazile recalled her own struggles and triumphs in the Corps, citing her many accomplishments on promotion boards and how she excelled over most of her male colleagues.
The Women's Equality Day celebration wasn't just about the military, however. Dr. Margaret Ingram King, associate vice president for student affairs and director of the career services center, Tulane University, was the keynote speaker for the event. She spoke about how gender roles have changed in the last 40 years and why it's important to celebrate Women's Equality Day.
"Tradition tells us who we are and what we are supposed to do," said King. "That's why it's important to celebrate the things important to us."
Women's Equality Day is celebrated nationally on Aug. 26, to commemorate the passage of the 19th amendment, and was first declared a holiday in 1971.
Sempers,
Roger
:marine: