UTICA, N.Y. -- Celebrating the role of women in local history and putting a spotlight on women's issues -- that's the goal of an upcoming event in the Mohawk Valley.

Next month, the Oneida County History Center will team up with various local organizations to host 'Women in the Mohawk Valley: A History Conference.'

The three day event will include networking, lectures, and a historical bus tour of Utica.

People can attend one part or the whole thing, and are being asked to register beforehand.

Organizers believe there is a gap when it comes to recognizing the impact women have had locally.

"It's a time where we can turn back the clock and become part of history. We have some remarkable women that are part of this area and some of their names are very familiar and some of their names are not, but they loved this area and they did what they could to make it a better place," said tour co-organizer Barbara Dunadee.

"For young girls, it's important to show them maybe some past role models who aren't here today, but what women are capable of doing right here in their own community and then women in this community who have gone out into the world and have done very impressive things," said Oneida County History Center community outreach coordinator Rebecca McLain.

The conference begins May 18.