The Wom*n’s Room is a right, not a privilege. Any wom*n student at Melbourne Uni is entitled to use this space – it doesn’t matter if you’ve never been before, don’t know anyone, or how long you’ve been at uni! Whether there are people in there or it is empty when you arrive, you are always welcome. The room is a designated wom*n’s safe space. This means that all wom*n visiting for whatever reason, may feel safe to be themselves, and to feel comfortable, without having to share the space with men, or undergo male scrutiny. Wom*n’s safe space makes it more possible for women to talk to each other, collaborate, to discuss issues or read any literature/brochures etc, without embarrassment or self-censorship, to relax and enjoy the welcoming environment. It is a non-competitive and supportive place.
You can chill out here, study, rest, eat your lunch (from our beloved food co-op of course) or join in a discussion. Facilities in the Wom*n’s Room include (free!!) coffee & tea, tampons, pads, dams and condoms, and access to the fridge, microwave, couches, computer. There is information on women’s health, services for women both on and off campus, sexual and reproductive health, and fun stuff to get active and involved in. We have a large bookshelf full of wonderful wom*n-centred books you can borrow.
The Wom*n’s Room is a haven away from the patriarchal space on campus. It allows for autonomous organising. Come and develop ideas, network, learn skills and share experiences so we as wom*n can effectively respond to wom*n’s priorities. Your Wom*n’s officers aim to facilitate a safe, autonomous (wom*n only) space, free of queerphobia, racism, sexism and judgment.
Not to mention, the amazing group of women you will meet and get to know throughout your degree!
Unfamiliar with the idea of autonomous/wom*n’s only spaces?
Here are some articles that should help:
This website was created on Wurundjeri land. We respectfully acknowledge the traditional owners of the stolen lands and waters of this area. We also acknowledge that those of us who live, study, and work here and are not indigenous are thus beneficiaries of the dispossession of Aboriginal people.
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