The evening atmosphere in the Woodland Commons was one of respectful silence and attentiveness, as a powerful Adrienne Rich stood alone at the microphone, seated, while reading poetry to an eager audience. Her pioneering, literary history and foundation created a presence and atmosphere of inspired awe, and she carried with her, a profound strength, a quiet strength that is forged only through the diligent, persevering and sincere work of one who has challenged and broken social barriers and stereotypes.

On Thursday, 30 April 2009, the 2nd annual Women's Studies/Women's Resource Center fundraiser, Educating and Empowering through the Arts, featured legendary poet and feminist, Adrienne Rich, author of the groundbreaking article "Compulsory Heterosexuality and Lesbian Existence," among many other distinguished, feminist literary works.

She is among the very first of a league of feminist and lesbian women, to challenge the institutions of both heterosexuality and motherhood, giving name and voice to these long-standing "roles" or experiential practices, and further, that alternative lifestyles did indeed, not only exist, but in fact, were also commonplace.

Though the years have visited her, as they will of us all, the constitution of her rich legacy resonated softly yet profoundly through the quiet, still room. Among an ambient setting of fresh tulips, white tablecloths, and a crowd finely-dressed to fit the occasion, the words of her poetry flowed easily and fluidly from between the now-aging lips of Adrienne Rich. Many of us sat back, relaxed after dinner was served, as we languidly listened to her narrate insightful and easy poetry. Listening to Adrienne in this atmosphere, was like sitting by a softly-lit fireside, crackling logs, while draped in a soft, cozy blanket.

There were no bands or loud music. There were no flashy lights and Hollywood fame, to mark her illustrious career, but nonetheless, everyone in the room knew this was a momentous occasion. We knew we were sharing in the experience of a lifetime. As far as we knew, never again would Adrienne Rich publicly present her poetry to another audience. After the poetry readings, as the line formed to obtain Adrienne's autograph in their personal copy of "Of Woman Born: Motherhood as Experience and Institution," I snuck into line, politely asking Adrienne if "I could please have my photo taken with her," to which she replied, "absolutely." I was elated! I'll post the picture on Facebook, I'm sure, but more than that, it will remain in my personal album, among my most valued life experiences.

As the readings came to a close, we collectively felt the legacy of feminist empowerment and social activism and change, move into another era, as Adrienne led us from her generation of feminists into this one. There is no greater honor for lesbians and feminists alike, than to be led into the next phase of feminism by such a respected and revered pioneer. Adrienne, you have forged new roads that previously did not exist in patriarchy, and you have spent your life lending credible authenticity to the lesbian and female experience. We are honored, and we thank you.


Simply Me
a.k.a. Dawna Cosme
Namaste'


The proceeds continue to fund the Women's Studies Endowment for scholarships and the work of the WRC.

For more Adrienne Rich, visit:

http://www.poets.org/poet.php/prmPID/49