The office is the result of 20 years of work to establish a campus women's center, including demands by student protesters over sexist and racist incidents in fall 1990. The office, which has two staff members, opened last April in 1153 Behavioral Science Building. Its goal is to make UIC a place where women can pursue their educational and professional goals effectively and safely. The office will examine the effects of university policies, programs and practices on women. Redd plans to educate the university community through programs and collaboration with other campus organizations.
Advocacy is an important service.
Any woman who has experienced discrimination, sexual or racial harassment, or sexual or physical assault can receive help. Sometimes, with sexual harassment, it is first identifying it and knowing it is illegal. The discussion begins at 7 p.m. in the Illinois Room of Chicago Circle Center. UIC women are concerned about sexual harassment, child care, pay, tenure and the lay-offs of women, Redd said. The office is also a meeting place for groups such as the Aframerican Women's Alliance, Latinas Unidas and Women's Caucus of Pride.