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

Greetings BPW Advocates,

Happy February! As I write this, snow still covers the ground outside and more is forecasted for this week, so I hope everyone is staying warm while we make our way through winter. We’ve had quite the start to the new year in terms of advocacy - a new President has been sworn in and we’ve welcomed a new Congress, opening fresh opportunities for us to take action and make our voices heard.

We ended January with some big news - in one of his final acts as President, Biden issued an official statement declaring that the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) is the law of the land and should be recognized as the 28th Amendment. This marks an exciting milestone in the century-long fight for constitutional gender equality.

However, questions remain. The National Archivist has not been directed to publish the Amendment, and she previously stated she would not publish. As a result, many are unsure of what this means for the ERA’s legal status. Rest assured, the Advocacy Committee is closely monitoring developments and will share updates as they unfold.

We want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who took action the last month to get to this point. Every text, email, and sharing of information applied pressure on Biden to take action. This achievement is a powerful reminder that when we fight together, we win! Additional thanks to those who made it out on January 18th for the People’s March across the US. I hit the chilly streets of Manhattan and got lovely photos from our Young BPW Representative Bryn Norrie in DC, and our Immediate Past President Megan Shellman-Rickard in Colorado! If you attended the People’s March in your city, please share photos!

On a personal note, February brings exciting news for me. Elections for my union officially begin, and I am thrilled to be running for New York Base President! This campaign has been months in the making, and I am grateful for the leadership skills and encouragement I’ve gained from my BPW experience. I look forward to updating you on the outcomes.

In even more exciting news, I am honored to have been named a BPW International Permanent United Nations Representative. Serving our organization in this capacity is a tremendous privilege, and I am eager to advance our advocacy priorities on an international scale. I will keep you informed about our work at the UN and how we are making progress toward our goals.

I hope you can join our next advocacy meeting on Thursday, February 13th at 7 pm ET. We’ll be discussing priority legislation for this year, our forthcoming Advocacy Hub, and the 69th Commission on the Status of Women. Many exciting things going on in the committee, and all are welcome to join. Looking forward to speaking with Colorado and California members at their upcoming public policy meetings and sharing more information on what these incredible groups are doing!

Mark Your Calendar: Key Advocacy Days in February

February offers several important opportunities to spotlight women’s issues:

• Black History Month: Throughout February, we honor the contributions of Black women leaders who have shaped history and continue to drive change. Advocacy efforts this month should amplify the voices of Black women and address the systemic inequalities they face. This month, we honor trailblazers like:

Ida B. Wells: Journalist and activist who fought against lynching and for women’s suffrage.

Shirley Chisholm: The first Black woman elected to the U.S. Congress and a champion for education and equality.

Marsha P. Johnson: A pivotal figure in the LGBTQ+ rights movement and advocate for marginalized communities.

• National Girls and Women in Sports Day (February 7th): This day celebrates the achievements of female athletes and highlights the ongoing fight for gender equity in sports. It’s a perfect time to advocate for equal funding, resources, and opportunities in athletics.

• International Day of Women and Girls in Science (February 11th): This day underscores the importance of achieving full and equal access to participation in science for women and girls. Let’s advocate for initiatives that close the gender gap in STEM fields.

Thank you for your continued passion, dedication, and advocacy. Together, we are creating meaningful change

Emily VanVleck

2nd Vice President of Advocacy,

NFBPWC 2024-2026