There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you. –Maya Angelou
Photo source: 2013 Dr. Maya Angelou, The Official Website http://mayaangelou.com/ Accessed April 27, 2013
As AAUW members, we are sensitive to the issues that affect the lives of women and girls. I struggle to keep up with the multitude of issues for which AAUW advocates. As a branch, what issues should we champion? This is a question I will be asking all of you, starting at our Program Planning meeting and salad potluck on June 17. Then as a branch, we can commit to becoming informed about and developing a plan to support the issue(s) we choose.
I just can’t believe this program year is almost over. AAUW/Toledo has had a very busy year, with more still to come. Joanie Barrett and her committee have selected books to purchase for the Toledo Public School libraries. Our U.S. flag that flew over the Capitol last year will begin making the rounds of Toledo-Lucas County libraries. Deb DiGennaro and others will begin coordinating Toledo Branch history to archive for future generations. If you have documents or items that should be preserved, please call me, or bring them to the annual meeting on May 15.
It’s also time to cast your ballot at AAUW.org: One Member One Vote. Up for election are AAUW President and Vice President, in addition to 10 positions for the Board of Directors. Read the candidates’ bios at AAUW.org. You may have received an e-mail from National with instructions. If not, contact them at connect@aauw.org or 1-800-326-2289.
I hope to see you soon! Yours in AAUW, Michelle Radtkin
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AAUW – Toledo Branch/ Education Committee Update April~2013
The AAUW Education Committee consisting of members Dr. Ruth Alteneder, Joanie Barrett, Gail Conrad, and Sandra Schocket met April 25th at the home of Joanie Barrett to select women’s biographies to be purchased for the Toledo Public School libraries through the AAUW “Remember the Ladies” fund. This fund is supported by donations from the Women in History troupe members and from generous AAUW members. We always hope that this account is “remembered” by our members; unfortunately, the price of books has increased tremendously, and any and all financial assistance is always greatly appreciated.
TPS Media Specialists recommended seven books which the Education committee reviewed for student interest level, reading level, illustrations, publication date, and AAUW mission appropriateness.
The committee members recommended that the following books be purchased this year: Jazz Age Josephine, the story of a woman the stage could barely contain. Rising from a poor, segregated upbringing, Josephine Baker was able to break through racial barriers with her own sense of flair and dance abilities. She modeled embracing talent, working hard, overcoming adversity, and following one’s dreams. Josephine sparkles as a determined, brave and singular woman of color. The book is recommended for ages 4-8.
Sonia Sotomayor: Supreme Court Justice Justice Sotomayor became the U.S. Supreme Court’s first Hispanic Justice and the third woman to serve the Court. This story describes the remarkable journey from her childhood in the projects near Yankee Stadium to her stellar academic achievements at Ivy League universities to her rapid rise in the legal profession. Recommended for ages 9 and up, the book includes a timeline and Judge Sotomayor’s own personal notes.
Who Says Women Can’t Be Doctors? : The Story of Elizabeth Blackwell, was released on February 19th of this year and is a refreshing introduction to a regularly but often dryly cited female character. A brave and curious Elizabeth Blackwell grew up in the 1800’s when women were supposed to be only wives and mothers. This inspiring story of the first female doctor in the U.S. shows how one strong-willed woman opened the doors for all the female doctors to come; it is recommended for ages 5-8 years.
The fourth and final recommended book is, Mermaid Queen: The Spectacular True Story of Annette Kellerman, Who Swam Her Way to Fame, Fortune and Swimsuit History. This wonderful book is about professional swimmer Annette Kellerman, who, as a youngster, wore uncomfortable steel braces on her legs. It was her parents’ attempt to strengthen her legs through swimming that led Annette to love the sport and to discover her talent. She raced competitively in Australia, Europe, and the U.S., and along the way she introduced the world to water ballet, known today as “synchronized swimming.” She advocated for practical women’s swimwear and introduced an innovative one-piece design, the prototype of the modern swimsuit. This satisfying read is recommended for ages 4-8.
If you wish to join the AAUW Education committee and assist in the selection of book titles for next year, please contact me at 419-867-1220. The time commitment is minimal, approximately 2 to 3 hours, but the reward is great!
Many thanks to those who comprised this fantastic committee this year!
Joanie Barrett, RN,MA,PhD , AAUW Education Committee Chair