A quotation by Gloria Steinem, founder of New York magazine and prominent feminist leader in the early '70s, graces the Feminist Alliance Web site.
"In my heart, I think a woman has two choices: either she's a feminist or a masochist."
The Auburn Feminist Alliance addresses issues such as equal pay, rape prevention and awareness, body image and reproductive justice.
"Feminism is a strong word, especially around conservatives, and we want people to understand what it means and promote awareness," said Amanda Petersson, a senior in architecture thesis and president of the organization.
Feminist Alliance sponsors events such as Love Your Body Day, Be a Hero of Safe Sex and shows films to spur discussion among members and guests.
"At Love Your Body Day, we have a dance instructor and a yoga instructor and talk about body confidence," Peterson said. "The instructors help empower students by allowing them to feel their bodies move and not simply see them through a mirror."
The organization has put out a newsletter called Lib(her)-ation and is currently working on a new publication called The Plainswoman with art, poetry and literature focusing on the empowerment and promotion of women.
Annie Gilbertson, Auburn alumna and president of the Feminist Alliance for two years, would like to see the newsletter pick back up in the upcoming year.
"Recently we've had funding issues and it's hard to get volunteers, but we're receiving funding help from the women studies," Gilbertson said.
Although many see their work as positive reinforcement of women and equal rights, their discussion boards also have comments left by male students accusing the group of underestimating male importance.
Petersson takes this negativity in stride and the organization's members attempt to discuss even offensive comments tactfully and informatively.
"It doesn't bother me at all because I was raised in a more liberal family," Petersson said. "It's not a problem for me to say that I am a feminist, and I think women should come together and discuss issues and empower each other. However, we try to tread delicately as far as putting ourselves out there."
Katie Lushington, a graduate student in polymer and fiber engineering, thinks most people would be surprised if they came to a group meeting.
"People think it's only about women, but a quarter of our members are guys who want to learn more, support our cause and want women to feel empowered," Lushington said.
The Feminist Alliance is firm in its promotion of positive messages clarifying what feminism means.
"People tend to think we are feminist nazis and that's not true at all," Lushington said.
According to Britannica, feminism is a social movement that seeks equal rights for women.
However, Gilbertson said the issue extends beyond lawful rights.
"A lot of people want to know what we bitching about since we have 'equal rights,'" Gilberston said. "However, if you look at Congress, if you look at the judicial system, women and minorities are extremely under represented."
Interested students can find Feminist Alliance meetings and events posted on its Facebook page.
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