A screening of “RBG,” a documentary highlighting the career and legacy of the late Ruth Bader Ginsburg, was held inside the Hager-Lubbers Exhibition Hall Tuesday, March 3.

Grand Valley State University collaborated with the Greater Grand Rapids Women’s History Council (GGRWHC) to host the event. At the screening, there was a reception and panel discussion surrounding the film, which served as a kickoff of University events for Women’s History Month.

The documentary celebrates the many accomplishments of Ginsburg. She made landmark achievements that defined legal protections against sex discrimination, such as co-founding the American Civil Liberties Union’s Women’s Rights Project, becoming the first tenured female professor at Columbia Law School and argued five of the six gender-equality cases before the Supreme Court.

The GGRWHC works to remind the community of the contributions of Ginsburg and how the Grand Rapids community continues to combat discrimination. President of the Greater Grand Rapids Women’s History Council, Ruth Stevens, explained the group’s mission. 

“The history council has been around for about 35 years, and we’re dedicated to preserving local women’s history, delving into it, uncovering hidden history and accurately portray history, especially as it relates to women,” Stevens said.

Pat Smith, retired GVSU General Counsel staffer and current board member of the GGRWHC, also emphasized the importance of celebrating Women’s History Month.

”In 1987, Congress declared the month of March as Women’s History Month, a time set aside to recognize both the celebrated and unsung women whose leadership, creativity and courage has shaped our communities and our nation,” said Smith. “Tonight, we reflect not only on that history, but also on the work that clearly lies ahead.”

Events similar to the RBG screening will continue to pop up throughout Women’s History Month on campus and throughout Grand Rapids. These events include a panel discussion this Wednesday with the Grand Rapids Women’s Resource Center. There will also be performances by the Grand Rapids Women’s Chorus throughout March.

The GGRWHC aims to continue their efforts after March to provide a supportive environment and platform for women’s voices. This includes the annual GGRWHC meeting reception on historic preservation scheduled for this upcoming May.