In the name of ensuring security, civil liberties have been curtailed, national borders tightened, and militarization is on the rise. The National Council for Research on Women’s 2003 Annual Conference takes place at a critical moment of escalating military conflict and deepening economic disparities, as well as shortly before US presidential primary elections and campaigning. At this moment when there is an overwhelming urgency for voices of concern and dissent, for alternate visions and strategies, we will address the extraordinary challenges that women and girls – and all people – are facing in the US and around the world. The Conference will provide a forum for these voices and visions, and shift the focus of security from the safety of territory and states to human security – the safety of individuals, their freedom from fear, and social, economic, and physical well-being – and reframe security to incorporate the experiences and concerns of women and girls, their families and communities.

Issues to be addressed during the Conference include: militarization, its effects on people’s economic, political, and social lives and well-being, as well as on popular culture; the economics of war and economic security; civil and human rights; cultures of violence; HIV/AIDS; the erosion of Title IX; the attack on reproductive rights upon the 30th anniversary of Roe v. Wade; local applications of international law and treaties; and immigration and citizenship.