University hosts exhibit showcasing women's influence across decades

The “Nevertheless, She Persisted!” exhibition is currently on display at the University of Houston's MD Anderson Library. The exhibition, which opened in October, is curated by Claire Keck, a graduate assistant curator for the Carey Shuart Women’s Research Collection. It features materials highlighting significant moments in the lives of influential women from Houston.

Keck aimed to engage Generation Z students with topics like historical activism, women's suffrage, and the pro-choice movement. "This collection is important because it showcases the role women have played throughout the 20th century," she stated. "They fought for their rights to suffrage, integration and equality, and bodily autonomy."

Funded by Houston businesswoman and arts patron Carey C. Shuart, this project supports the Carey Shuart Women’s Research Collection and emphasizes diverse histories of women’s organizations in Houston. Christina H. Gola, interim dean of UH Libraries said that these materials "document a range of women’s issues" and illustrate how women have achieved collective goals impacting society.

Keck also intended to redefine the term "influencer," illustrating its historical context beyond modern social media usage. The exhibition includes artifacts spanning from the 20th to 21st centuries such as artwork, photos, banners, and video footage from groups like Gorilla Girls and events like the 1977 National Women’s Conference.

Among Keck's favorite pieces are those related to Mignon Weisinger and her partner Pat Gustavson—UH alumni whose love story provides insight into LGBTQ+ relationships during times of widespread non-acceptance.

"This archive creates opportunities for students, scholars and the community to explore local history," explained Gola. It encourages research ideas while advancing understanding of history through compelling stories and themes.