SW New Mexico News

New Mexico State University is set to host the 19th annual J. Paul Taylor Social Justice Symposium on April 10, focusing on "Transformative Leadership: Women, Gender Diversity, and Social Justice." The event, organized by NMSU’s gender and sexuality studies, aims to honor the leadership contributions of women and LGBTQ+ individuals in various sectors.

M. Catherine Jonet, associate professor of gender and sexuality studies at NMSU, highlighted the significance of the symposium, stating, “It honors the leadership contributions of women and LGBTQ+ folks across the NMSU system, in local and state politics and community mobilization.”

Cynthia Bejarano, NMSU Regents Professor, emphasized the importance of the symposium in bringing the community together to address inequities, saying, “For nearly two decades, the J. Paul Taylor Social Justice Symposium has played a critical role in bringing the Las Cruces community together around various topics to network and collaborate about finding solutions for inequities in our community.”

Laura Anh Williams, NMSU gender and sexuality studies associate professor, expressed her view on social justice, stating, “Social justice is a community process... It embodies the pursuit of a fair and equitable society where all individuals have equal access to resources, opportunities and protections.”

The symposium will feature panel discussions, presentations, and awards ceremonies throughout the day, culminating in a keynote discussion on "A Dialogue on Transformative Leadership" moderated by Julia Brown, National Board Chairperson of the American Association of University Women.

Reflecting on the legacy of J. Paul Taylor, Bejarano shared, “His spirit and commitment to education have guided this symposium’s mission from the very beginning... Although he passed away just before the symposium last year, his legacy lives on thanks to support from those inside and outside the university.”

Attendees can expect a day filled with engaging discussions, networking opportunities, and insights on social justice issues affecting women and LGBTQ+ communities. The event is open to the public and will be available for live viewing on Zoom for those unable to attend in person.

For more information about the symposium and to engage in conversations about creating more inclusive and equitable futures, attendees can visit https://genders.nmsu.edu/jpt19.html. Free parking will be available for attendees in Lot No. 30, located east of the Pan American Center, with complimentary parking across campus after 4:30 p.m.

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