As Women’s History Month reached its end, Southern Methodist University (SMU) hosted an enlightening panel titled “Dallas Women’s Struggle for Dignity and Human Rights” on March 27. The discussion, held in the Oren Family Auditorium and conducted by Human Rights Dallas, celebrated the voices and victories of women in Dallas while highlighting ongoing challenges in their fight for dignity and human rights.
Hadi Jawad, co-founder of Human Rights Dallas, opened the panel by emphasising that “Dignity is why human rights were created”. This unifying force, combining faith, race, and political divides, celebrates our shared humanity. Moderated by Sylvia Komatsu of KERA, the panel featured five prominent female activists who vividly wove together their personal battles across diverse women’s issues.
Dr. Tonya Stafford, founder of the nonprofit It’s Going to Be Ok, captivated the audience with her powerful story of being sold into human trafficking at just 13. “No one asked questions,” she recalled, pointing to societal neglect. Her organisation now empowers survivors through trauma-informed support. “I live today to serve and I serve to live,” Stafford declared, a candle of hope lighting her way forward.
Sandra Blackbear Ramirez, a representative of MMIW Texas Rematriate and a voice from the Koi Gu tribe, recounted the painful absence of resources for young Indigenous women reported missing since the 1970s. “Our mission is to bring our relatives home and support their families,” she affirmed, echoing the call for justice.
Rev. Dr. Samira Page shared her inspiring journey from fleeing religious persecution in Iran to establishing a ministry dedicated to aiding refugee women reconstruct their lives. Rounding off the stories, former State Rep. Victoria Neave shared her legislative victories in promoting gender equality and safeguarding survivors. “It matters when women are at the table,” she passionately stated, encouraging others to pursue political paths to amplify their voices.
As the panel drew to a close, Dr. Joce Caldwell Ryan, director of women and gender studies at SMU, linked the night’s discussions to Dallas’s rich history of female-led activism. “SMU has one of the oldest women and gender studies programs in the country,” Ryan noted. She urged attendees to remain engaged, reminding them that history continues to unfold with every effort towards equality.
Southern Methodist University hosted a panel titled “Dallas Women’s Struggle for Dignity and Human Rights”, showcasing stories of local female activists. Hadi Jawad highlighted the importance of dignity in human rights. Panelists, including Dr. Tonya Stafford and Victoria Neave, shared personal experiences and advocacy efforts to support survivors and promote gender equality. Dr. Joce Caldwell Ryan linked these narratives to Dallas’s historical activism.
The panel at SMU not only illuminated the struggles faced by women in Dallas but also celebrated their resilience and victories in the quest for dignity and human rights. From harrowing personal stories to advocacy efforts, each speaker inspired action and reflection, urging attendees to become part of the ongoing narrative for gender equality. In a world still rife with challenges, the call to empower voices and advocate for change echoes loudly through the stories shared.
Original Source: smudailycampus.com
