Throughout time, historians have diminished or deleted women’s stories and experiences. With school back in session and history classes in full swing, it’s a good time to make sure we do not neglect the stories of women throughout history. We believe in amplifying the voices of the women who have gone before us and applauding the accomplishments and successes of the women around us.
If you’re looking for some empowering sorority activity ideas that celebrate women of the past and present, read on. These ideas can help you honor achievements, foster solidarity, and inspire one another.
1. Ancestor Discovery
Tell their stories! Have each sorority sister share something about one of their female ancestors and bring an item to represent their life–be it a photo, heirloom, recipe, etc. Consider having a genealogist teach you how to learn more about your ancestors online.
2. Panel Discussion or Speaker Event
Organize a panel discussion featuring accomplished women from diverse fields or invite a motivational speaker to share insights on powerful women in history as well as empowerment, leadership, and gender equality. Such an event will provide inspiration, spark meaningful conversations, and offer opportunities for you and your fellow sorors to learn from successful women’s experiences and perspectives.
Choose a venue conducive to discussions. Prepare thought-provoking questions and encourage active participation from attendees.
3. Networking Breakfast or Lunch
Host a networking event over breakfast or lunch where professional women can connect, exchange ideas, and build professional relationships. A networking meal promotes collaboration, and it strengthens the community of women in various industries.
Arrange seating to encourage mingling, provide conversation starters, and possibly feature short presentations or icebreaker activities.
4. Skill-sharing Workshops
Offer workshops where women can share their skills and expertise with others. Topics could range from career development and financial literacy to creative arts and wellness. Organizing a skill-sharing event will empower women to broaden their horizons. It will foster a supportive environment for personal growth and promote knowledge exchange.
Identify skilled participants willing to lead workshops, set up stations or breakout sessions, and provide materials or resources needed for hands-on learning.
5. Film Screening and Discussion
Screen films or documentaries highlighting women's achievements, challenges, and contributions to society. Follow up with a discussion on themes portrayed in the film. You can easily promote dialogue and encourage reflection on the portrayal of women in the media after watching films together.
Choose films relevant to your group's interests, secure rights or permissions if needed, and prepare discussion questions to facilitate a meaningful conversation afterward.
6. Artistic Expression Showcase
Host an event where women showcase their artistic talents through performances, exhibitions, or readings. This could include music, poetry, visual arts, or storytelling. Creating a setting for women to share their talents celebrates creativity and fosters appreciation for diverse forms of art created by women.
Secure a venue conducive to performances or displays. Promote participation from within your sorority. You can perform for each other or invite your families and friends to join in as audience members.
7. Health and Wellness Retreat
Plan a day focused on relaxation, self-care, and wellness activities such as yoga, meditation, spa treatments, or nature walks. A wellness retreat could focus on both the physical and mental well-being of your fellow sorors. Taking time to make wellness a priority reinforces the importance of self-care among women, something women are known to put aside.
Choose a tranquil setting or spa facility. Schedule a variety of activities to cater to different interests. Provide healthy refreshments or meals.
8. Celebration Dinner or Cocktail Party
Host a celebratory dinner or cocktail party to honor the achievements of women in your sorority–both past and present. Include awards, speeches, or toasts highlighting contributions and milestones. The celebration will boost morale and create a festive atmosphere of camaraderie and appreciation.
Reserve a venue with dining or event space. Plan a menu featuring diverse cuisine options, and coordinate entertainment or activities to enhance the celebration.
9. Educational Talks or Workshops
Invite experts or thought leaders to deliver educational talks or workshops on topics relevant to women's rights, gender equality, leadership, or personal development. Learning from an expert can help raise awareness and educate your sorority on critical issues. Listening will help empower you and your sisters with knowledge and resources you can use to make a difference.
Identify knowledgeable speakers or facilitators. Set clear learning objectives. Encourage open dialogue and participation during the sessions. Imagine how powerful a room full of women in their Delta Sigma Theta apparel can be as they learn and grow together.
10. Social Media Campaign
Launch a social media campaign to amplify voices, share stories of inspiring women, and raise awareness about women's issues globally. By using social media, you can engage a broader audience to contribute to a larger conversation on gender equality. You can leverage your digital platforms for advocacy.
Create a hashtag for your campaign. Collaborate on content creation among your sisterhood.
Don’t let history class be the only place for learning about the legacy of women. Explore herstory with your sisters. Get inspired to take the baton from powerful women before us and join the ranks of powerful women around us who are making the world a better place.