LINDSEY BOERMA
Living Assistant
Throughout history, women have influenced the world as we know it. When Harriet Tubman spoke the words, “You have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world,” she did not know that they would someday define Pepperdine senior Julie Dlugokecki.
Dlugokecki, a political science major, has begun to act on her passions. Aside from being the initiator of the Eve Project, a photo campaign used to raise awareness of sexual violence, she also has high hopes for her other numerous beliefs.
Wherever Dlugokecki’s life leads, it is certain that she will reach her ultimate goal of making an impact on the lives of others.
So, can you explain the Eve Project?
The Eve Project was a photo media campaign concerning sexual violence. We take portraits of students’ faces and include it with their responses to “When fear of sexual violence ends, I will…” Women and men do things in their daily lives with the fear of their bodies being violated, and the Eve Project just shows how fear transcends so many different dimensions.
What did you hope to accomplish with the project?
I think the main goal was to dismantle some of the social stigma attached to sexual violence and create an inclusive environment where the issue can be spoken in a very progressive manner.
Was there anything in particular that got you interested in the topic of sexual abuse?
Good question. I feel like the issue is such a pertinent one that we are all affected by it in some way. And also I think that in declaring my women’s studies minor, I became really informed of the existence of sexual violence. The first step in combating it is recognition, and that’s what I hope this program will do.
Are you involved in anything else on campus?
I work at the Intercultural Affairs Office, and that’s a huge one because it’s sponsoring the project. Then I’m also in Delta Gamma. I’ve cut out a few things this semester.
Do you have any other social or political beliefs that you would say define you?
I’d say human rights even on an international scale and social justice. I’m also passionate about women’s [issues] in other countries, and recently I’ve been researching educational inequality.
What has been your main inspiration in promoting your beliefs?
My mother is the inspiration for what I do and believe. She is one of the most important people in my life, and she’s an aspect of who I am.
Do you hope to continue working with these sort of projects ?
I think that no matter what direction my life takes, the subjects will always be dear to my heart. I’m not sure about what I’ll be doing in the future, but I know that the beliefs I have now will always be something I’ll advocate for.
What would your ultimate dream career be?
Well, this is really general, but I want to be in a respected position in which I’d have the power to make a positive change in people’s lives.
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