In celebration of Women's History Month, Greenfield Community College is honored to welcome Professor Carrie Baker from Smith College for a thought-provoking discussion on the intersection of democracy and women's rights. The event, titled "Democracy and Women's Rights: Abortion, Political Representation, and the 2024 Elections," will take place on Tuesday, March 26 at 1 p.m. in the Nahman-Watson Library Solarium at GCC.

Baker is a leading scholar in gender studies, law and public policy. Her research focuses on women's legal history, gender and public policy and feminist activism. Baker has authored four books and numerous peer-reviewed articles in leading journals. She is also a contributing editor for Ms. magazine, writes a monthly column for the Hampshire Gazette, and hosts a monthly radio program, Feminist Futures, on WHMP 101.5 FM in Northampton.

Baker's talk at GCC promises to shed light on the critical issues facing women's rights and democracy in the United States. Over 60 percent of Americans support abortion access but many face challenges including the recent overturning of constitutional abortion rights and numerous state bans. Professor Baker will explore the correlation between states with high levels of gerrymandering, voter suppression and limitations on abortion access, which often coincide with male-dominated legislatures.

Through her engaging presentation, Professor Carrie Baker will argue that democracy and women's rights are inextricably linked. She will discuss how the erosion of women's rights serves as a warning sign for the health of democracy and the broader implications for political representation and participation.

The event will be co-sponsored by Greenfield Community College's Gender and Women's Studies Committee and departments of English and Social Sciences. It will be free and open to the public, encouraging community members to participate in this important conversation. "Having Professor Baker on campus, particularly in an election year, is an incredible opportunity for thought provoking discussions here at GCC," said President Michelle Schutt.
For those unable to attend in person, a simultaneous live stream will be available at gccfor.me/women2024, made possible through arrangements with Greenfield Community College's Tech department.

For more information about the event, please contact Anne M. Wiley at .