Purpose within the ASUW:

• Program and initiate events of special interest to women's studies
• Officially represent women of the University of Washington
• Disseminate information of special interest to women

The ASUW Womens Commission was formed in 1969 in response to heated political activity occurring on campus regarding gender issues. It was designed to attempt to meet the needs of female students on campus who felt discrimination, hostility, and alienation. The commission remained active politically and socially and was followed by other student commissions in later years.

In 1993-4, the annual programming budget for the Womens Commission was cut to a third of what it had been allocated in previous years. This began the three year battle with the Board of Control (BOC) in which the Womens Commission lost in the spring of 1997, resulting in permanent disassembly. Thus begins the history of the Womens Action Coalition. We have the same purpose as the original Womens Commission, however our goals change each year to reflect students needs.

In 1999-2000, we regained our "Commission" status, and continue to meet the needs of the students.