Dear Members: 

Welcome to Women’s History Month! 

Let this month be a catalyst for ongoing engagement, advocacy and commitment to the mission of empowering women everywhere. 

March is a time of reflection, celebration and action. (isn’t every month??) 

As we honor Women’s History Month, we recognized remarkable contributions of women past and present.  This is the time to celebrate those who paved the way, learn and share the progress made and gear ourselves up to battle the challenges that remain. 

A significant highlight of this month is the annual Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) at the United Nations in New York City, where people from around the world (including around 100 people from BPW) will gather for two weeks of advocacy, discussion and collaboration.  CSW provides a unique opportunity to engage with global leaders, policy makers and activists as they address critical issues impacting women’s rights and gender equity.  For those who are unable to attend in person, I strongly encourage you to participate virtually.  Many sessions and events are accessible online, permitting you to be part of the conversation from wherever and “whenever” you are

Leading us into CSW,  March 8^th is International Women’s Day.  The first IWD was held in 1911.  Learn more about IWD at:

https://www.internationalwomensday.com/

March 25 is Equal Pay Day 2025 – a stark reminder of the persistent gender wage gap.  BPW is responsible for initiating the Red Purse Campaign.  This campaign is a powerful visual symbol of the economic disparities women still face.  I encourage you to engage in discussions, share resources and advocate for policies that move us toward wage equity.  Let’s use this time to raise awareness and push for change.

Beyond CSW, International Women’s Day and Equal Pay Day, March is an invitation for all of us to find ways to celebrate, educate and learn about women.  Included in the Virtual article, you will find 31 Ways for 31 Days, suggestions of thing you and or your club might want to do to celebrate women this month.  Host a local event, spotlight women’s achievements in your community, mentor a young woman, or simply take the time to explore the stories of those who have shaped our world.  Every action, no matter how small, contributes to greater empowerment and recognition. 

Thank you for your dedication and passion.  I look forward to seeing how each of you will honor this important month in your own unique way. 

With gratitude and determination,

Barbara Bozeman

NFBPWC President, 2024-2026