Oregon Colleges Showcase 'I Am Not Invisible' Exhibit, Honoring Women Veterans in March

In a significant nod to Women’s History Month and the valor of women in the military, Central Oregon Community College (COCC) is hosting the ‘I Am Not Invisible’ exhibit across its campuses. This traveling photographic display, spotlighting Oregon women who have served in the armed forces, aligns with the state’s initiative to establish a Women’s Military History Week every March.

Empowering Visual Narratives

The exhibit, which initially debuted at the Portland Art Museum in 2017, presents compelling portraits of 20 women veterans, among them notable figures such as U.S. Marine officer Kyleanne Hunter, retired U.S. Air Force Col. Mary J. Mayer, and U.S. Army officer Maria Carolina González-Prats. Each portrait is accompanied by a brief biography, providing insights into the diverse and impactful experiences of these women. The exhibit aims to shed light on the nearly 26,000 women veterans in Oregon, underscoring their significant yet often overlooked contributions to the nation’s military history.

A Testament to Diversity and Inclusion

Behind the scenes, the project was brought to life by Felita Singleton, the director of Portland State University’s veterans resource center, and Elizabeth Estabrooks, who previously served as the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs women veterans coordinator. Their vision for the exhibit was not only to make women veterans more visible but also to advocate for equity, diversity, and inclusion within the military community. This year, the exhibit’s theme, ‘Women Who Advocate for Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion,’ resonates deeply with ongoing discussions about gender and diversity in the armed forces.

Engagement and Education

The ‘I Am Not Invisible’ exhibit will travel to COCC’s Bend, Prineville, and Madras campuses throughout March, with each location offering free viewing to the public. A special reception is planned at the Bend campus’s Coats Campus Center, fostering an environment for visitors to engage with the stories of these remarkable women. The exhibit not only serves as an educational tool for the community but also as a beacon of inspiration, highlighting the courage, resilience, and achievements of women veterans. For those interested in attending or requiring accommodations, contact details for COCC’s veterans program coordinator and disability services are readily available.

As the exhibit draws visitors and attention across Oregon, it invites reflection on the roles and recognition of women in the military. By bringing these stories to the forefront, ‘I Am Not Invisible’ challenges societal perceptions and honors the profound contributions of women veterans. It stands as a poignant reminder of the strength found in diversity and the importance of acknowledging all who serve.