Students shared their viewpoints on feminist issues over a free cup of coffee at the Open Mic Night sponsored by the Women's Center this past Saturday night.
Women and men alike gathered at Perks coffee house in the Ellicott Complex to share their opinions and listen to the performers.
"It was just to let people express themselves based on the feminist views that people can be equal regardless of gender," said Jason Gomez, a member of the Women's Center.
According to Gomez, the event served as a reminder that feminism isn't dead yet, while more than a dozen students attended. The Center had expected a mid-sized crowd of about 50 students, according to Jacqueline Gerringer, a senior media studies major and member of the Women's Center. They specifically held the event in Ellicott to make it easy for students to attend, she said.
"We get a lot of different events, but this has had one of the largest turnouts. It has given a voice to people who haven't usually had a chance," said Alyssa Weiss, sophomore political science major who works at Perks.
The theme for the night was the empowerment of women through increasing public awareness of issues that women face. Students shared their original work and that of other feminists, which touched on issues such as eating disorders and the unrealistic societal standards placed on women.
The Women's Center chose to host an Open Mic Night because of its interactive nature. Students both listened and contributed to the event.
"It gives them an opportunity to speak out on whatever they want," Gomez said.
The event also incorporated the male perspective. The co-founder of the Men's Group read selections from the book Women: Images and Realities by Amy Kesselman, Lily McNair and Nancy Schniedewind.
"I performed because the Women's Center invited the Men's Group to talk about some of the issues. We strive to prevent violence against women, and help give men the tools to help women work through the event of rape," said Steven Glamcevski, co-founder of the Men's Group.
Natalie Levy, a sophomore psychology major, performed some of her original work. Levy performed because she wanted to take part in spreading the Center's message.
"I just want to convey the message that women should stick together and not be held back by societal standards," Levy said.
There were a variety of performances including the band Boonie and the Bobbettes. According to band member Greg Robbins, the group heard about the event through Facebook. They performed original songs and covered the Foo Fighters' "Times Like These" and "Razor Town" by Jason Isbell.
The audience enjoyed the event and the different forms of expression it showcased.
"I think it has good diversity and it has something for everyone. It's an overall great event," Weiss said.
The event also increased the visibility of the Women's Center, according to Gerringer.
"It also raised awareness of the Women's Center and (got) people talking about feminism and its stigmas," she said.
Photo: Courtesy of Laron Fomby
