Students “Unpack” Today’s Current Climate

Having a group of people to talk through things with has never been more important. Especially when it comes to sensitive issues. The Women’s Center offered this opportunity Thursday in the form of  “Unpack! It,” an event where students were invited to gather together to talk about some of their most pressing concerns. As students entered their top issues into a word bubble, topics appeared on the screen at the front of the room.

Some common themes began emerging almost immediately. Equality was presented in various forms, from inequality in wealth and gender to food access and healthcare. Homophobia and racism were also noted as pressing concerns for attendees.

But so too were interpersonal concerns. Attendees noted their concern for a lack of compassion and domestic violence.

Emily Hodge, the graduate assistant for the Women’s Center and the director of this event,worked attendees through various exercises. One of these exercises asked attendees to do research on a topic they were passionate about and to present to the rest of attendees. They then answered questions about their chosen topics including “What are some groups your issue effects?”, “What is the current narrative?”, “What does the opposition or supporters say about your issue?”, “How long has your problem existed?”, “Any personal connection or thoughts?” and “Has there been any proposed solutions or advocacy?”

Among discussed topics, the three most discussed were the usage of Artificial Intelligence (A.I.), gender inequality, and food accessibility.

The Women’s Center hosts events throughout the year and is open even when events aren’t being held, providing students with a safe space to discuss sensitive issues for them.

Emily Hodge, graduate assistant for the Women’s Center, leads the “Unpack It!” event. (Alexis Darkow/The Reporter)

Write to noah.wickersham@mnsu.edu