Plenary Sessions are meetings of all Summit participants for the purpose of addressing and sharing the concerns, goals and visions that bring us together.
Plenary Sessions are where the opening and closing ceremonies take place, the Women of Courage Awards are presented and attendees can hear the Summit's featured speakers. Other business may include recognizing co-sponsors, special announcements and speak-outs, or "Open Mike."
Sessions may include discussion by participants from the floor. During these open microphone sessions, Summit participants may speak from any of the designated microphones on the floor. Volunteer microphone monitors will be at each microphone to facilitate discussion.
Some general rules of order will be observed by the chair of the plenary. The chair describes the agenda for the session and how discussion will take place.
Discussion in open microphone plenary sessions generally follows the fundamental principles of parliamentary debate. These principles are simple and logical:
There is an additional important principle when discussion occurs within a limited amount of time: Each participant's remarks should be as short and as concise as possible. This will allow more participants the chance to speak.
In Summit Workshops, presenters and participants will share information, exchange ideas and make action plans. The Workshop presenter's goal will be not only to inform and enlighten, but also to send Summit participants home prepared to advocate for women's rights, organize in their own communities and help shape the feminist movement.
To make our movement effective and keep it moving forward, activists must pass-on to others the skills they possess and make an efffort to broaden their own capabilities. Skills Building Sessions will focus on acquiring and developing tools that participants can use every day in their work for justice.
Full descriptions of all Workshops and Skills Building Sessions are available.
Open Caucuses provide a time for feminists who share a common interest to get together. This offers an excellent opportunity to meet and communicate with others from around the country. A designated facilitator will ensure that discussion at each caucus runs smoothly.
Open Caucuses will take place during assigned sessions and meals. The locations and topics of these caucuses will be announced and posted in advance.
Regional Caucuses are the first step in making sure that we continue to work together after this weekend. In addition to greater knowledge, inspiration and organizing skills, attendees need action plans, strategies and local contacts to help effect change for women.
For this purpose, eight geographical regions have been organized and everyone is encouraged to attend the Regional Caucus for their area. Participants will meet and network with activists from their regions, develop contact lists, discuss regional issues and begin the important process of forming coalitions that will strengthen the movement at the grassroots level.
To determine what region you are in, see chart.
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