Whether they're sneakers, sandals or stilettos, one University of Memphis student organization wants women to wear the shoes that empower them in honor of Women's History Month.
Professional Assertive United Sisters of Excellence will host the opening ceremony for their women's history month "Powerpumps" campaign — a series of events — tonight at 6 in the University Theatre.
"It's a campaign that focuses on what your shoes are that empower you as a woman, whether it's tennis shoes, pumps, flip-flops — whatever those shoes are that get you to your destination," P.A.U.S.E. President Antionette Booker said. "We want to see you in those shoes."
P.A.U.S.E. focuses on helping women become leaders in the community and the workforce and on campus, Booker said.
The organization seeks to highlight efforts of women who haven't been acknowledged in past.
"It was so long before (women) were actually were able to actually contribute on a larger scale," said Linda Hall, coordinator of minority affairs at The U of M. "We get a chance now to see them shine."
Now in its fifth year on campus, P.A.U.S.E. has over 100 members, including freshman Charnita Heard.
"I wanted to be able to give back to my community," the political science major said.
Later this month, Heard will host a town hall for The U of M P.A.U.S.E. chapter called "More Than a Woman." The workshop will address many topics, including "Are You Ready For Sex?" and "What Is A Woman?"
The purpose of Heard's workshop is to get women to realize "they need to do more than an average woman," she said.
The organization will also present the play "A Woman's Worth," which highlights the different roles of women in society.
P.A.U.S.E will also host its annual women's conference, "The Blueprint of a Woman," on March 25 and 26 at 6 p.m. in the Michael D. Rose Theatre. This year, Terry McMillan, the author of "Waiting To Exhale" and "How Stella Got Her Groove Back," will be part of the event.
"These programs are meant to empower women," Booker said. "We put on programs that let (women) know you are destined to be great. You have a brand about yourself. It is our purpose to help guide you to that brand."
Booker wants people to come to all the events and celebrate the accomplishments of women.
"We need to show the world who we are," Booker said. "It is so many women who are doing things on campus. They may get recognized with a certificate but people need to see you. People need to know what you are doing and what impact you have on this campus."
