Celebrating Women’s History Month: Advocating for Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion

The office of multicultural affairs marked Women’s History Month with a special event to champion women who fight against discrimination, racism, and bias in society. 

Human rights activist and poet Fatimata Cham, a 23-year-old native of the Bronx, New York, was invited to share her story with students in the DeSales University Center. Cham spoke of her journey to advocacy, which began in high school where she learned the importance of storytelling to illuminate the inequities in her community.  

Attending Lafayette College as a Coca-Cola scholar, Cham was involved in various student organizations. From advocating for the Girl Up initiative to leading the Muslim Student Association, Cham recalled how she “found true value in showing up. Showing up for my community on campus … Time and time again I showed up.”  

Whether it was rallying against gender inequality and racism or shining a spotlight on climate issues, Cham became passionately involved in student initiatives, highlighting the collective role we all play in driving change within our local communities.

Cham concluded her speech by encouraging other young activists to use their voice as a tool for change. Regardless of platform, reach, or followers, she stressed that every voice matters. 

“You never know the people you are touching through the process,” she remarked. 

In addition to Cham’s keynote speech, the event featured a book mobile curated by Lisa Dietz, instruction and assessment librarian, showcasing stories of remarkable women from Trexler Library’s collection. Attendees of the event were able to check out books to read more about the lives and stories of incredible women throughout history.