The National Organization for Women’s newest Michigan chapter is starting up at MSU next Tuesday - and seeks volunteers and new members.

MSU NOW co-president Kate Schmitigalsaid bringing the organization to MSU would be beneficial for students.

\"NOW will provide both female and male students a chance to get involved through NOW with activism they are passionate about,” the history freshman said.

The organization, founded in 1966, is the largest feminist organization in the nation. The organization has more than half a million contributing members and more than 550 chapters in every state.

Lansing also has a chapter of the organization.

Upholding reproductive freedom as well as fighting racism, sexism and homophobia are the organization’s main focuses.

MSU Women’s Council member Hillary Noyes said having an on-campus NOW chapter will give women more opportunities to have their voices heard.

“I think the more women’s groups, the better,” Noyes, a zoology junior, said. “There are many differing opinions at MSU, and additional groups allow more networking and activities for everyone.”

NOW co-president Rachel Parsonssaid the group’s goal is to raise awareness and educate students about women’s issues.

“We feel it’s important to have a political outlet on campus to make changes and keep women’s rights strong,” the women’s studies freshman said.

The first meeting of MSU NOW will be held at 8 p.m. next Tuesday in the Illinois Room of the Union.

“We’re looking for more people to help us out with leadership positions as well as volunteers,” Parsons said.

To become a member of the MSU chapter of NOW, students have to attend NOW meetings at least once a month.

“I’ve always been passionate about NOW\'s issues and especially their reproductive rights stance,” Schmitigal said.

“I really want people to know about these issues and what we can do about them.\"

For more information on the MSU chapter of NOW, e-mail MSUNOW@hotmail.com.