The Amherst Feminist Alliance (AFA) has worked since its inception to bring women on campus together to organize about women's issues. "Basically, it's an organization that came together to ensure a safe space for women on campus and to acknowledge the contributions of females on campus," said Co-chair Julie Ajinkya '03. "We address issues that pertain to women."

Traditionally, the group has been an active participant in Sisterspeak, a nationwide celebration of women during the month of April. Throughout the month the group hosts activities such as panels and speakers, a series of movies that are relevant to feminist issues and a talent show. "This year we also plan to put together a panel about the Bush administration and the future of reproductive rights in the country," said Ajinkya.

Students will also remember the rows of hangers tied to the trees on campus with powerful messages about abortion and women's rights. "[Since the club's origin], our school's gotten a lot more modern, and we've been able to do a lot more radical stuff," said Co-chair Nicole Sandoz '03.

The AFA also cosponsors events with the Student Health Educators and the Peer Advocates such as Take Back the Night, a project against sexual abuse and violence against women, and The Vagina Monologues. In the fall of 2001, the group will also be an active contributor to the 25th anniversary celebration of coeducation at Amherst College. "They've asked for AFA input because we're basically representatives of female contribution on campus," explained Ajinkya.

The AFA also participates in national conferences, such as the Feminist Expo and the International World March for Women in Washington, D.C., both of which the group attended last year. Sandoz called the World March "an amazing experience."

"We joined a group of women from Argentina and Mexico and places all over the world to march for women's rights in general," she said.