Kate Mikuliak, one of the inspirations for #myfem2tree
I have many trailblazing women to thank for inspiring my feminism. Although my activism began in Bangladesh, it was the organizations at Hunter College that helped me become a full-time feminist in America. The Hunter Women’s Rights Coalition (HWRC) was instrumental in giving me a positive outlet to channel the rage I felt against sexism. The ubiquitous student club had a tradition of utilizing the mentorship of its alumna. Kate Mikuliak was a past president who not only continued to keep in touch to help me navigate the bureaucracies of Hunter, but also advised me on a personal level. The first year I became president in 2007, it was late in spring already and our budget had not been set yet. Kate took the time to counsel me during work on the proper procedures. She continued to be a mentor and friend until my graduation in 2009. Since my graduation, she has advised me on my career path.
In addition to being grateful for all her support, I admire Kate for her accomplishments, including leading the HWRC in helping secure one of the first gender-neutral bathrooms on an American college campus. She has an impressive background in local government work, but recently left for her next adventure – volunteering in Central America for a year to learn Spanish. I am truly grateful for all my mentors, including Kate.
(Kate pictured in a white blouse and gray pants, standing next to Ben. I am sitting down. She came back to guide us during a club meeting even after her graduation.)