"Here, let me get that for you, honey, it looks a little heavy."

Ideas like this one and sexist terms such as "skirt, scope and babe" are not that antiquated.

Although women are recognized more within higher education and the world in general, there is still a long road to travel.

This week marks the beginning of Women's Studies Week, a celebration of the 10th anniversary of Penn State's women's studies program. Events throughout the week attempt to highlight what should have been known for years. Yet many people question why this particular group merits "special attention."

Celebrating women's history is crucial to eradicating the daily indignities and injustices that unravel the fabric of women's lives. From a keynote speech by Mimi Coppersmith, vice president of the University Board of Trustees, to a series of lectures and discussions, this week will be a time to recognize women everywhere.

For those who believe education about women is unnecessary:

-- Texas gubernatorial nominee Clayton Williams compares dreary weather to rape: "If it's inevitable, just relax and enjoy it."

-- Johnson Controls Inc., a Milwaukee-based company, bars women of child-bearing years from working at sites where the lead concentration in their blood level could rise to unsafe levels.

-- The Idaho legislature passes a bill that would have restricted an estimated 90 percent of the state's abortions.

Beyond these recent and degrading instances, history has traditionally ignored women's contributions. Accomplishments of the "movers and shakers" -- Sojourner Truth, Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Susan B. Anthony, Fannie Lou Hammer and many others -- are overshadowed by the history of men.

Many educators recognize this oversight and are changing their ways. The University's recent passage of a cultural diversity requirement can help people to find out more about women's accomplishments. But unless people are willing to learn about this historically ignored group, societal problems will continue.

Women still earn only 70 cents to a man's dollar. Sexual harassment and rape continue to threaten and harm women. The fundamental right of a woman to control her body by abortion is threatened on many fronts.

Women's History Month is over and Women's Studies Week will soon end. But participating in events this week and imparting that knowledge to others can improve attitudes toward women and help women's contributions to history live on.