2007 CFT Women's Rights Conference

Sacramento Taiko Dan is composed of mostly women, who gave a rousing performance at the CFT Women's Rights Conference. Dean Murakami photo

The CFT Women’s Rights Conference on Saturday March 31st was an educational and inspiring event for faculty and also the many students that attended.  The first keynote speaker was former Chancellor Carol Tomlinson-Keasey who gave a historical perspective of the struggles for women to progress in higher education and politics.  The second keynote speaker was Christine Chavez, the granddaughter of Cesar Chavez, who gave a touching and insightful look into the Chavez family and the lessons taught by her grandfather.  It was a very fitting tribute on Cesar Chavez’s birthday.   

A look at the organizations that participated in the workshops gave a clear indication of their quality, but the workshops were so lively and entertaining as well.  Organizations included NOW, California Commission on the Status of Women, Coalition to Abolish Slavery and Trafficking, National Women’s Political Caucus, WEAVE, and the Share Institute.  There was a rousing and show stopping performance from the Sacramento Taiko Dan, many of whom are teachers and almost all women. 

The last part of the conference was a march to Cesar Chavez Park where we joined the Cesar Chavez celebration and women were invited to speak at the podium. 

One email that I received said, “As you know, I was one of two advisors who accompanied a group of Evergreen Valley Students (“Latinas for Change) to the CFT Women’s Rights Conference on March 31st.  I am writing you to let you know how wonderful the conference was.  Everything was excellent – the location was inviting, the workshops were informative, the lunch was delicious, the raffle prizes were great (and I won two) and the entertainment was absolutely fantastic!!!  We also participated in the march to Cesar Chavez  Park, which was a nice ending to an awesome day. During our ride back to San Jose, the students talked about their learning and great adventure at the conference.”  

—Dean Murakami