By: Emily VanVleck
2^nd Vice President of Advocacy, NFBPWC 2024-2026 

As we enter the month of November, we approach a season marked by gratitude and  reflection. For those of us in advocacy, November is also a time of renewed  determination, and this November is a defining month for advocates, bringing  opportunities for us to take action and have our voices heard at the polls. As Vice  President of Advocacy, I invite you to join us in making a lasting impact for women  everywhere. Whether it’s through casting your ballot, supporting survivors, or raising  awareness for critical issues, every action counts. 

November 5: Election Day 

November’s biggest day of advocacy happens early in the month on Election Day. This election will shape  policies that impact women’s healthcare, reproductive rights, economic equity, and workplace protections. As  a nonpartisan organization, we don’t endorse candidates, but we do urge each of you to vote with a  commitment to advancing the rights and well-being of women. 

How You Can Take Action: 

● Make a Voting Plan: Check your polling location and hours, plan your transportation, and set time  aside on your schedule to get out and vote. 

● Encourage Others to Vote: Remind friends, family, and colleagues to get out to vote, particularly those  who may face barriers, like childcare or work constraints. Spread the word on social media about the  importance of voting in support of women’s issues. 

● Volunteer for Voter Support: Assist with phone banks, offer transportation to polling places, or  volunteer with local voter outreach initiatives to help ensure all voices are heard. 

November 25: International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women 

November 25 marks the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, a day established  by the United Nations to raise awareness of the widespread violence women face globally. From domestic  violence to human trafficking, gender-based violence impacts one in three women worldwide—a staggering  and unacceptable statistic. 

This day is the starting point of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, which continues  through December 10 (Human Rights Day). These 16 days represent a powerful global campaign to challenge  violence against women and call for stronger action from governments, organizations, and individuals. 

How You Can Take Action: 

● Support Survivors: Donate to local women’s shelters or advocacy groups that provide direct services  to survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and trafficking. Even small contributions can provide  critical support to those in need. 

● Advocate for Policy Change: Contact your local representatives to advocate for stronger protections  against gender-based violence. Push for the passage of laws that ensure justice for survivors, such as  funding for domestic violence shelters and protections from abusers. 

● Engage on Social Media: Take to social media to raise awareness about violence against women. Share  survivor stories, facts about gender-based violence, and resources for those seeking help. Education is  the most important step in advocacy and building awareness. 

Transgender Awareness Week (November 13–19) 

November also brings Transgender Awareness Week from November 13 to 19. This is a time to uplift  transgender voices and raise awareness about the challenges faced by transgender individuals, particularly  transgender women, who are disproportionately affected by violence and discrimination. The week ends on  Transgender Day of Remembrance on November 20, which honors the memory of those whose lives were  lost to anti-transgender violence. 

How You Can Take Action: 

● Amplify Trans Voices: Share stories from transgender advocates, and highlight the intersectional  nature of women’s rights and transgender rights. Help to raise awareness of the unique challenges  faced by transgender women and the importance of inclusivity in our fight for gender equality. 

● Advocate for Legal Protections: Advocate for policies that protect transgender individuals from  discrimination in healthcare, employment, and education. Call on your elected officials to support  inclusive legislation that affirms the rights and dignity of transgender people. 

● Support Trans-Led Organizations: Donate to organizations that provide services and support to  transgender individuals, particularly those focusing on transgender women of color, who face the  highest levels of violence and discrimination. 

Advocacy is about more than just raising awareness—it’s about creating lasting change. November’s advocacy  days remind us of the interconnected nature of women’s rights. Whether it’s gender-based violence or  transgender inclusion, these issues are all tied to women’s health, safety, and empowerment. 

The Advocacy Committee thanks everyone who attended our latest advocacy event, An Educational Panel on  Project 2025. If you missed any part of the discussion or would like to review the insights shared, you can  access the event recording here. Stay tuned for our next event, and feel free to join our next advocacy meeting  on November 21st.