A Conversation on the Impact of COVID-19 on Utah Women and Work
August 25, 2021

Panelists: Dr. Jared M. Hansen, Marin Christensen, & Dr. Christopher J. Hartwell
The COVID-19 pandemic of 2020–2021 has impacted all Utahns in profound ways. Yet, a host of national and global reports have argued that women’s employment and careers have been disproportionately impacted during this time. To better understand Utah women’s experiences specifically, UWLP researchers conducted an extensive, in-depth survey focusing on the impacts of COVID-19 on women and work. This comprehensive study included the collection of data on a wide variety of topic areas and included both quantitative and open-ended questions to capture participants’ perceptions and experiences. Over 3,500 Utah women responded to the survey. Study researchers discuss the findings from this research, particularly focusing on burnout, hope, career advancement challenges, childcare, homeschooling, caregiver experiences, physical and mental health struggles, and more.

In this social studies skill builder, students will learn about the life and death of Anne Frank. Students will be able to recognize what it means to empathize with the experience of others after reading about Anne Frank's life. This skill builder is most appropriate for students in 6th, 7th, and 8th grade. It is estimated this lesson will take about 15-25 minutes to complete. Through virtual field trips, class collaboration, and independent practice, students use reading comprehension and observation skills to learn about Anne Frank and her family's life before and during World War II. They will also learn about the trials and hardships the Jewish people faced and the importance of empathizing with others.

Thumbnail: screenshot of Nearpod lesson by Christina Nelson 7/27/2022

Today, it is more important than ever to help make our communities, state, and world better places. But how can we do this from where we are? Social media is a platform that allows all of us to be heard, motivate others, and get involved. This interactive and engaging workshop is designed for women and influencers of any age (including teens) and focuses on how social media can impact our communities and help to make a difference. Jess and Niki provide ideas for getting involved, including the what, where, and how. They share specific examples of how social media can make a strong, positive impact (from Utah and beyond), while also identifying potentially harmful uses of media and instructing attendees on how to avoid such negativity. Finally, they share some key guidelines on how to maintain and expand a social media presence that reflects your authentic self, while increasing your efforts to positively impact the community.

Carine Clark, four-time president and CEO of high-growth tech companies, shares her insights on how to unleash your power as women to do good. Clark also serves on the executive boards of GOED (Governor's Office of Economic Development) and Silicon Slopes. She has received several recognitions, including EY Entrepreneur Of The Year® Award in the Utah Region. She has BA and MBA degrees from BYU.

Have you ever wanted to speak up, share your ideas, or express an opinion—in different ways—but felt like you did not quite know how? Our communities are stronger when we have a wide range of distinct voices represented, yet women are much less likely to speak out or share their written opinions in public settings. This may be because women do not feel they have enough “expertise” to share their thoughts, or even because they hesitate to add their words to a sea of confused or angry voices. In this session, Liz and Jordan teach from their own professional experience and backgrounds about how important it is for women to find their voices and use them confidently, respectfully, and with authority. Viewers will first learn about how to identify where their voices are needed and then receive expert advice on how to express themselves powerfully in order to expand their influence for good.

Global Women’s Issues and the Beijing Platform for Action. This book is based on the 12 critical areas of concern identified at the Beijing Conference: 1 The persistent and increasing burden of poverty on women 2 Inequalities and inadequacies in and unequal access to education and training 3 Inequalities and inadequacies in and unequal access to health care and related services 4 Violence against women 5 The effects of armed or other kinds of conflict on women, including those living under foreign occupation 6 Inequality in economic structures and policies, in all forms of productive activities and in access to resources 7 Inequality between men and women in the sharing of power and decision- making at all levels 8 Insufficient mechanisms at all levels to promote the advancement of women 9 Lack of respect for and inadequate promotion and protection of the human rights of women 10 Stereotyping of women and inequality in women’s access to and participation in all communication systems, especially in the media 11 Gender inequalities in the management of natural resources and in the safeguarding of the environment 12 Persistent discrimination against and violation of the rights of the girl child