In celebration of International Women’s Day, Chaminade University faculty and students take a minute to weigh in on what a gender-balanced world means to them:
Dr. Joe Allen
Associate Professor, Criminology and Criminal Justice
“A gender-balanced world recognizes the differences and the similarities between and within various genders and celebrates them. This celebration means the provision of equal opportunity, sharing the gifts that each of us brings to the table and embracing the idea that all individuals should be treated with fairness and dignity. Gender is a lesser category of one’s humanity. This should not be forgotten.”
Keʻalohi Canady ’20
Business Marketing major from Honolulu, Hawaiʻi
“I believe we should live in a world where men and women have an equal opportunity to achieve their greatest dreams. A gender balanced world looks like everyone embracing inclusivity and being more open-minded.“
Dr. Katelynn Perrault
Assistant Professor, Forensic Sciences and Chemistry
“A truly gender-balanced world is not purely a numbers game. It is about creating a culture of gender balance. We need to actively work to create space in which women no longer feel the need to live in hyper-awareness—where we do not need to be on guard for subtle comments or behaviors that undermine our expertise, opinions or view that we deserve a spot at the table.”
Kiso Skelton ’21
Historical and Political Studies major from American Samoa
A gender-balanced world serves as a community where people embrace diversity and value all genders. It is important to have a gender-balanced world because we are stronger when we come together as one, and our purpose in this gender balanced world is to lift each other up, not the other way around. Furthermore, all genders are entitled to all opportunities that will positively impact them.
Dr. Lynn Babington
President
“A gender-balanced world is one where gender equality is a given—where people, regardless of their gender preference, have the same access to education and good jobs, and are equally represented in leadership positions and decision making. Gender balance, along with diversity and equality, in all sectors of society is critically important if we hope to build a strong and sustainable world.”
Skye Haraga ’21
Biochemistry major from Kāneʻohe, Hawaiʻi
“Gender diversity is about representing all genders. ʻAʻole pau ka ʻike i ka hālau hoʻokahi.’ (Knowledge is not limited to one school). You are not limited by your gender.”
Ashley Hill ’22
Education major from Kāneʻohe, Hawaiʻi
“To me, gender balance is something that everyone should be entitled to. As our society is changing we need to continue to shed light on the importance of gender equality. I believe that if we maintain this shift toward gender balance, not only in the workforce but in our communities, the world will be a more efficient society.”
Andrew Ines ’19
Business Administration major from Kalihi, Hawaiʻi
“Gender equality is important because women deserve just as much credit as us men do. Women can be just as strong as men.”
