A W/GS grad like no other!
The Women’s/Gender Studies Certificate banner, a brief history
In the winter of 2012, Dawson faculty from diverse disciplines gathered to discuss the future of the “Women’s Studies” certificate. It was decided that the certificate would reorient its focus to address broader gender issues and aim to foster a deeper student involvement in community activities. The following year of hard work culminated in the newly branded “Women’s/Gender Studies” and the creation of a W/GS logo and this banner.
In May 2013, the Women’s/Gender Studies Certificate ceremony took place, the first of its kind at Dawson, during which graduating students were asked to sign the banner. Signatures were also accompanied by inspiring messages. The transmission of these messages of mobilization and solidarity left by graduates for future cohorts is a tradition that continues to this day. Until 2020 this banner was held high at women’s marches and trans rights awareness campaigns, hung proudly at Dawson Open House, on International Women’s Day and during other W/GS events, at collaborative events with the DSU, and now shines in a place of prominence as part of the history of this college.
With messages faded and sides tattered from use, let us admire the beauty of this banner as a symbol of a vibrant community that has found a place to be seen.
Special thanks to:
- Greta Hofmann-Nemiroff (Founder of Dawson Women’s Studies)
- Marc-Andre Cright (Logo Design)
- Kim Simard & Donna Varrica (Certificate Coordinator & Communications Director)
- The W/GS faculty and staff for their ongoing commitment to preserving the certificate as part of Dawson College’s legacy