To celebrate Women's History Month and International Women's Day, Women Uniting for P.E.A.C.E. (Prevention, Education, Awareness, Community, and Equality) are hosting the conference to advance their aim of providing educational activities for the community and region related to women's issues.

Keynote speaker, Aminata C. Baruti, dancer, choreographer, writer, professor, social activist, and consultant will be speaking on "Redefining Womanhood," Saturday at 1:15 p.m. A native of Amsterdam, Netherlands, her roots run back to Suriname, a small country on the coast of South America, known for its multi-ethnic society, and for its retention of traditional African culture. She currently serves as an adjunct faculty in the college of social work while also pursuing her doctorate degree in Anthropology at the University of Kentucky.

Her latest professional work includes collaborative pieces with the River City Drum Corp from Louisville, choreography for the widely acclaimed theater play Affrilachia by Frank X. Walker, and founding and directing two performance companies, Sabi Diri and Spirit Dance Ensemble.

Baruti holds bachelor's degrees in physical education and psychology from Berea College, a master's degree in Clinical Psychology from Eastern Kentucky University and a master's degree in medical anthropology from the University of Kentucky.

The Conference opens Friday evening at 6 p.m. with the Ladies Lounge, which will feature a Women's Art Show, Open Mic, live performances, and a book display of women authors. Workshops and discussions are scheduled on Saturday, with topics including: Violence Against Women, Women in Social Activism, Family, Lesbian Existence/Bisexuality, International Women, African-American Women, Assertiveness/Self-Esteem, Black Women and Feminism, The Ten Plagues of Globalization, Body Image, EcoFeminism, and Anti-Tampon and Pad Making.

Women Uniting for P.E.A.C.E. was founded in 2001 by a group of Berea College students who saw a need to provide an atmosphere of support for women on the campus and in the community that fosters positive personal, academic, and social growth. The group has participated in and organized several activities on and off campus that include hosting discussions about topics such as the feminist movement and taking part in the Take Back the Night demonstration held in Richmond. Most recently, Women Uniting for P.E.A.C.E. organized and produced a successful benefit performance of the Vagina Monologues.

Registration for the two-day Conference is $12 before March 7 and $20 the day of the Conference. Berea College students can attend for the discounted price of $5. Housing and childcare will be provided and any special dietary needs can be met with prior notification. For more information contact Toni Brock at (859) 985-6606 or by e-mailing .