Campus feminist group seeks to change stereotypes

Members of IU’s Feminist Majority Leadership Alliance say that although a stigma still exists that feminists “want to degrade men,” those misconceptions are not reflective of the movement’s true goals. \n“But it’s really about empowering women and using our strengths to make a change,” said sophomore FMLA member Jessica Glomb.\nThe group borrows its main philosophies from the national Feminist Majority Alliance. Glomb said the campus group has adopted the goals of making people aware of women’s rights, promoting equality and trying to break social barriers. \nLately, the group has discussed abortion legislation and the rights of gay and lesbian couples. One of the biggest topics the group covers regularly is women’s health.\nThe group sponsors an annual women’s health fair. Organizations like Pure Romance, Middle Way House and the Women’s Student Association set up booths to both educate and provide support outlets. \nRecently, the group organized a pro-choice rally in honor of the anniversary of the Roe v. Wade ruling, which asserted that constitutional rights of privacy protected a woman’s right to an abortion. The group gathered in front of the Sample Gates and held up signs expressing its support of women’s right to choose.\nGlomb said when Bloomington residents saw the students rallying, men and women alike asked if they could join or even hold signs.\n“A lot of people look at it and maybe don’t take it seriously,” Glomb said. “The people who do recognize it as an issue are very supportive.” \nBut the group isn’t limited to women. \n“Men are totally welcome in our group,” sophomore Laurie Griesinger said. “They shouldn’t feel afraid.” \nIn addition to awareness events, the group produces a bimonthly newsletter called “The Bell.” The nonprofit publication raises awareness through five to six articles each issue relating to feminism. \n“The Bell” includes articles on women’s health, pop culture and events on campus, and it also includes a spotlight on an influential feminist leader. Students can pick up “The Bell” at Laughing Planet, Soma Coffee House, Boxcar Books and many locations around campus.\nAlthough the group used to have specific leadership positions, it is now a non-hierarchical group. \n“We wanted to make it more inclusive so people felt like they had a role,” member Olivia Morales said.\nWhile about 15 people are on the mailing list, only six to seven members attend meetings regularly. The group is trying to get more people involved and educate the community \nabout feminism. \n“Every year we have new members, and every year we have new voices,” Morales said