GRAND FORKS, N.D. – The Equal Rights Association (ERA NOW), Arts for Vets, and the Women’s Fund are partnering to host an art show in celebration of International Women’s Day. The show, “Rise & Claim,” opens on March 8 at 1:00 P.M. at the Grand Forks Arts Center (215 N 3 rd St, Suite 100).
The 2025 International Women’s Day theme is “Accelerate Action” and the organizers chose two action verbs, “Rise and Reclaim.” The words are inspired by two women who are all too familiar with accelerating action.
Maya Angelou’ poem “Still I Rise” inspires the word “Rise,” and Maxine Water’s historically uttered phrase, “Reclaiming My Time” inspires the word “Reclaim.”
When we inspire others to understand and value women’s inclusion in all sectors of society, family, business, and culture, we forge a better world. When women themselves are inspired to be included, there’s a sense of belonging, relevance, empowerment, and conscious acknowledgment of all the contributions women make to make the world a better place.
“Rise & Reclaim,” An Art Show Celebrating International Women’s Day will be displayed in the Grand Forks Arts Center from March 8 to 31. The show features artwork by more than 25 local and regional artists and includes nearly 50 works highlighting various media, subjects, and artistic styles. This year’s show is sponsored by the Greater Grand Forks Convention & Visitor’s Bureau, Gate City Bank, Blue Moose, and the Board Room.
The opening reception is Saturday, March 8, from 1:00 to 5:00 P.M. It will be a joyful celebration of women and will include snacks, beverages, dynamic discussion, performance art, and live music by local violinist Tamara Bertram. The event is free and open to all. “Rise & Reclaim” is a collaborative effort by three local organizations.
Equal Rights Association (ERA NOW)
The Equal Rights Association began meeting following the 2016 election and was officially established as a nonpartisan, grassroots 501(c)(4) non-profit in 2019. Its mission is to Show Up, Stand Up, and Speak Up for equal rights for all. Its vision is to see a respectful, just, and interconnected society. 2016 demonstrated that equality is always on the ballot. Thus, at the forefront of ERA NOW activities is education and events promoting the Equal Rights Amendment – so that, one day, America will see the ERA published as the 28th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution – “Equality of rights under the law shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any State on account of sex.”
Arts for Vets was founded by a group of veterans, family members, and community members to bring art, music, creative programs, shows, and events to the community. Arts for Vets’ mission is to create a warm, welcoming, and inspiring environment for all creatives, from beginners to professional artists, to engage in friendship and artistic expression.
Women’s Fund
Established in 2002 by twenty area women, the Women’s Fund is a component fund of the Community Foundation promoting regional programs that inspire, empower, and invest in women and girls.