Why is Women's Studies Important?

The message of Women’s Studies is often misconstrued. Women’s Studies is not just about studying women and women’s history; it involves a much larger exploration. Intersectionality, as a central approach to feminist inquiry, opens people up to a more inclusive understanding of the world. Systems of oppression such as racism, sexism, ableism, ageism, etc cannot be separated from each other; in order to invoke change we must acknowledge their interconnectedness. Expanding discussions and discourse to include different voices and experiences is invaluable to the private, public, and political sectors of society. As an interdisciplinary field, Women’s Studies provides a larger lens to view life’s complexities. It allows us to look beyond harmful generalizations and simplifications of issues and individuals in order to recognize insidious systems of injustice. Instead of perpetuating the “reality” of socially accepted knowledge, Women’s Studies investigates and disrupts normative narratives.

An important realm of Women’s Studies’ investigation is in the sciences. Society often credits scientific discovery as fact, even though its theory and analysis are prone to social bias. It is critical to apply an intersectional approach in scientific method to make science more reliable for everyone. An intersectional approach in science also extends to environmental concerns. Ecofeminism values the wellbeing of humans, as well as all sentient life forms, affording the field of science a deeper understanding of how to address problems that affect people and animals.

Recognizing multifaceted differences and complexities places a focal point on our cultural frames of reference. This assures us that when looking at our history through a different lens, and going outside the manner that it was previously taught, will reveal new truths, and consequently, advance our understandings. It has been proven that history has countlessly silenced voices and has reflected masculine eurocentric perspectives. If we come together, we may not necessarily rewrite history, but through listening we may bring visibility to voices that are silenced. In doing so, we can facilitate advancements in different areas such as medicine, science, history, the law, and the environment.

Using an intersectional framework supplements our knowledge and insights. By breaking away from conventionality, we can catch our own bias and think twice about the things that we say and do. A wider perspective not only fosters empathy, but is one of the only ways to learn about injustice, and to fight injustice. Feminism and Women’s Studies is about activating history through collaboration to pinpoint issues and figure out solutions. We must listen and draw upon the work that other marginalized persons have worked for by taking up similar practices and moving them forward.

Ultimately, Women’s Studies is important because the goal is to ensure that everyone's autonomy is protected. We are constantly finding ways to promote our own individual autonomy, as well as those around us.

Women's Studies Major

I was drawn to this discipline because I was inspired by the call for change. Growing up in New York City had given me a chance to experience diversity first hand. Unfortunately, it also uncovered huge intersectional disparities between groups of people. As a young person, it seems hard to enact change on your own. Once in college, it dawned on me that Women’s Studies is more substantial than I ever could have imagined. It was much more engaging than listening to lectures at a desk alongside other students. Instead, I learned in an environment which focused on group discussion and individual thought. I was able to expand my knowledge in a way that I had never been exposed to before. My education could be directly related to the daily experiences that different people face, which showed me how impactful and useful Women’s Studies is. I will continue learning and applying what I have gained from this major to what I do in my life.

Skills Acquired

As a Women’s Studies major, I have developed great analytical skills in a multidisciplinary manner. I most commonly use a feminist lens whenever I try to make sense of new information. I am also capable of performing research across many fields, from archival sources to literary scholarship. I have become more open-minded, but am still able to decipher between good sources of information to bring myself closer to the truths of the world. My curiosity drives my rigorous questioning and strong work ethic. Based on my numerous experiences working with others on feminist projects, I have learned how to effectively collaborate. I am also able to assert my ideas, listen to others, and reach out to members of different communities for aid.