Welcome to Sophia's Website!
What is 'Sophia'?
Sophia is a group of SPU students (both male and female) who explore the issues surrounding gender and what those mean for our lives today. We meet twice a month, and have lots of things to discuss! This winter we are exploring what social and economic circumstances shape our gender. Twice a month we meet at a member's house for dinner and discussion or a presentation. This Thursday, February 28, at 6:00 we have a Feast on Feminism dinner at Megan's house. You can meet in Martin Square at 5:45 to walk, or e-mail Megan for directions. We'll be talking a little bit about reactions to Violence Against Women Awareness Week and watching some of the Vagina Monologues! Questions? Go to the Contact page and e-mail us.
Feminism is the school of thought which believes both men and women should have equal access to resources such as employment, education, healthcare, etc. As a group, feminists vary just as much as Christians, biologists, or any other group of people. It's important to realize that most feminists are not interested in undermining the family or ridding the world of men. Men can be feminists, too! If you believe that women should have the opportunity to go to school, should be able to have a job and should be able to vote, you might want to learn more about feminism!
When did Sophia start?
Sophia began in the spring of 2006 out of a response against "May Madness," (http://archives.seattletimes.nwsource.com/cgi-bin/texis.cgi/web/vortex/display?slug=spu28m&date=20060428&query=SPU+madness) an on-line bracketing system of SPU women based on physical attractiveness. In the winter of 2007, four SPU women and one faculty advisor began planning and programming for a club which would facilitate discussion about issues of gender inequality. In its 2nd year, Sophia will continue to challenge the SPU campus to see sexism in our culture and to offer a safe space for victims of sexism.