Women of Color Luncheon
In March, during Women's History Month, the Office of Multicultural Affairs presents the Women of Color Luncheon (WOCL). The WOCL is a collection of feminine expressions that foster strength, appreciation and empowerment for women of various backgrounds and pursuits. Our annual spring program brings students, staff, faculty and administrators together to highlight the unique connections and contributions women of color have at Xavier and in the larger community. Often these voices are separated throughout the academic year, and this gathering serves as a point of pride, renewal and commitment to the legacy that continues to be shaped.
On Wednesday, March 18, from 11:30 AM until 1:30 PM, we hosted the 15th Annual Women of Color Luncheon: "Seasons of Womanhood: Strength, Courage, Wisdom" on, with keynote speaker Dr. Renay Scales, director for the multicultural research and resource center at George Mason University. Once again, our program was able to accomplish the following:
- Develop a positive ethnic and/or racial self-image and identities independent of the racist and/or ethnocentric definitions imposed on them by the college environment
- Engage in non-combative and non-educative “race talk” that is a respite from racial and/or ethnic hypersensitivity and hostility
- Give and receive academic encouragement and support
- Develop a gendered understanding of self within their ethnic and/or racial identities
