By Chelsea Hackney, Student Reporter

A newly formed group of men and women has one mission: to peacefully challenge gender roles on ACU’s campus by stirring discussion on the issue.

The Male/Female Alliance, which met for the first time this semester, is open to all students, regardless of the presence or absence of a Y chromosome in their genes, and its founders said they deliberately are inclusive for a reason.

“Nothing about feminism is exclusive to women,” said Amy Scott, junior biology major from Abilene and president of the alliance. “Feminism affects men and women, and gender equality makes life better for everyone.”

Although the group is still in its early stages, it already has big plans for ACU, Scott said. The Alliance plans to print a monthly publication that will tackle gender issues both on campus and worldwide. Scott said the group also hopes to have a booth set up in the Campus Center sometime in March for Women’s History month.

The group, which did register and was approved by the Student Life office, requested $660 from the Students’ Association Congress but only received $330 from the Congress for publication and printing costs.

Kim Tan, senior political science major from Tinton Falls, N.J., and vice president of the alliance, said the group’s long-term aspirations include having more Chapel speakers to address the topic of gender equality, as well as inviting more active female participation in Chapel and Chapel forums.

The group had its first interest meeting Wednesday, and officers and potential members discussed the goals of the group and members’ expectations and concerns. A total of 15 people attended the meeting, a good turnout, Scott said.

Many in attendance at the meeting expressed concern about a lack of gender equality on campus and a feeling of exclusion among women, even within the classroom. They stressed the importance of open communication in raising awareness about gender roles.

“We are not telling people to change what they are, but to change their casual actions and tendencies,” said Daniel Burgner, the group’s treasurer.

The group’s main objective is to help the ACU community to think critically as Christians about the roles of men and women in society, both what they are and what they should be, Burgner said.

The Male/Female Alliance has its next meeting Thursday at 7 p.m. at the University Park clubhouse. The group expects to see its membership increase as students hear about the Alliance. Tan said the group offers an excellent learning opportunity.

“The best thing about college is that it opens up your worldview,” she said.

Students interested in more information can contact the group at malefemalealliance@gmail.com.