My First Day in Court for beginning Chichilnisky vs Columbia Trial

Monday, June 16, 2008 was the day of the trial of Graciela Chichilnisky vs. Columbia University for gender discrimination . This is the statement Graciela made on the steps of the NYS Supreme Court Building in NYC.

"As I stand here before you this morning, on the verge of what I hope is the final phase of what has been a difficult--but worthwhile struggle--I can't help but reflect on the accomplishments and contributions women and Latinos have made in this great nation. From politics, to music, athletics, science, architecture, education, and economics, women and Latinos have continuously persevered in the face of impossible odds. Every day Latino women like myself contribute their effort and brainpower to the problems that face humankind - and have earned the credit and recognition we deserve for making extraordinary contributions to society. And that is why I am pursuing this lawsuit. This is not about smearing the reputation of a great Ivy League University, or trying to elevate myself at the expense of others; this is about fairness, equality, respect, and most importantly, allowing all of us to make the unique and powerful contributions we can make. That is what Latino women - all women - have fought for for centuries, and when all is said and done with this case, I hope to attain.

Latino women have come so far over a long period of time, and my contributions and accomplishments are an indication of that. To all who continue to support and believe in me, I want to express my most heartfelt thanks and appreciation; I am forever in your debt." - Graciela Chichilnisky, UNESCO Professor of Mathematics and Economics Director, Columbia Consortium for Risk Management Columbia University, New York www.chichilnisky.com

This is the first time I’ve ever been in a real live courtroom. Previously it has been through the eyes of the camera. I realized the Judge has a grave responsibility to determine a just verdict. I had met Chichilnisky before at the AAUW NYS and AAUW National Conventions. I also heard her speak at both. Graciela is not a character in a book or play but a flesh abd blood woman fighting for her rights. This is a battle that will effect her life and other women in academia. It is a first hand human struggle. Diane Haney, AAUW NYS President and I were there to support her. A photographer came from the NY Post to take her picture that was to be run with her story in the next edition. Also she was to be interviewed later in the day. It sem to me that the day covered the judge approving documents to be presented, then the opposing attorneys gave their opening statements, along with visuals, presenting what they intended to prove. A witness for Graciela told of Columbia’s intent to harass her and the price of his decision to disagree with them.

Court will reconvene Wednesday, June 18. I’ll be there with AAUW members supporting her in her fight for equity.

Nancy Mion