All aboard

Welcome to Re: Define, a society established by and for students studying at the University of Canterbury in New Zealand. It is my hope that this blog will serve as a website for the society and will be updated on a regular basis.

The following is a brief outline of the society's aims and activities.

The aim of the society is to "provide a space for students to discuss gender-related social issues, network with a diverse group of people in the local community, and give students with these interests a voice on campus".

We are queer friendly, having members who are queer, transgender or do not believe in dichotomous concepts of sexuality.

It is worth noting that out of our current 26 members only six are majoring in Gender Studies.

Some members have finished one paper and are interested in engaging further with the topics raised, or simply participate through a general interest in feminist/gender issues. I consider this diversity greatly beneficial. Gender Studies is an interdisciplinary field, so we are all the better for the individuals who bring sharp minds, fresh perspectives and varying experiences.

It is my personal aim that we attract as many students as possible who are doing Gender Studies for the first time or are in their first year of university study. These are exactly the people who are likely to struggle in finding an environment where they can discuss these topics with similarly minded or educated individuals. That environment is exactly what we hope to create.

Our plan for the year is currently:

Semester two
*A casual weekly meeting where people can discuss topics that have come up in class or have just been on their mind. This is held in room 401 of the history building (in the Gender Studies Department, 4th floor, first door on your left) each Friday at 1:00. The purpose of this meeting is pretty close to our stated aims, to provide a place where people can chill out with like-minded others and take part in casual discussion.

*A monthly formal meeting with a topic and speaker. The format for this meeting would be a short presentation (10/15 minutes) and/or a film followed by an open forum. The details of these meetings are still to be worked out.

*The creation of an online message-board where events can be organized and further discussion can take place.

*A ball or similar event with a 'Gender Bending' theme.