On Wednesday, October 6th, the second meeting for the Women´s Forum was held at the Texas A&M International University Starbucks.
The Women´s Forum is a safe space for women where they free to discuss issues that they may not feel comfortable discussing with others. It is a relaxed non -related school activity that is held on campus for the convenience of the students. The forum was created by Dr. Penny Vlagopolous, who was inspired by female students last year who stated that women don´t have enough outlets for talking about issues that are particular to them in Laredo. Students are welcome to join, free of charge. No special requirements are needed as students are only encouraged to come in with an open mind, and willing to listen and share their opinions.
The topics that are to be discussed in the group meeting vary: Sex, contraceptives, machismo, politics, the border, marriage, relationships, school, education, and sexuality. All of these topics are to be discussed in the women´s point of view.
Iracema Palacios, member of the Women´s Forum states that the forum is a way of having women appreciate themselves as being a woman. ¨ I think that this forum has the potential to inspire women to value themselves more and be proud of being a strong, educated woman. I hope that the forum can guide TAMIU students to find and accept their individuality and identity¨.
The forum is currently open to women only, but it is also available for men to attend on a designated day that the group agrees on.
The next meeting will be held on October 20, 2010 at 8:00 p.m at the TAMIU Starbucks. The scheduled meetings are yet to be stated, for the group is on the process of getting developed and a scheduled date to be assigned to meet the availability of the members.