August marks a significant moment on our shared journey – a time for reflection and the exciting challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

For the United States, August 26th is recognized as Women’s Equality Day, commemorating the 1920 passage of the 19th Amendment, granting women the right to vote…well, some women. As we know, not all women received that measure equally or immediately. It was and is a reminder that progress often comes in stages or steps. Some of those steps are bold, some unfinished And that we are called to keep moving forward toward full equity for all.

Internationally, August 26th also holds a special meaning as the founding day for BPW International in 1930. What Americans celebrate as Women’s Equality Day, BPW members around the globe (including us) as BPW Day – a day to honor our international sisterhood. As part of that celebration, BPW International encourages members to wear yellow and share photos on social media to raise visibility and joy and solidarity.

This month has already brought powerful reminders of what we can accomplish when we come together. Saturday (July 26th) BPW International’s UN Standing Committee, led by our International 1st Vice President Neelima Basnet, held a remarkable meeting, featuring all of the BPW International Standing Committees. Each Chair introduced themselves and their programming. I came away with at least 4 or 5 takeaways from each committee- that’s how energized and solution-focused the work was. It was 7am for me…and worth every moment. But BPW wasn’t done with my Saturday yet!

BPW California North District hosted a dynamic Zoom Training Day, filled with practical tools and generous sharing opportunities. The spirit of innovation and collaboration was truly energizing. If you weren’t there – you missed something terrific.

Ad hoc Letter on UN80 Initiative In keeping with our commitment to global engagement and advocacy, and with the support of your Board of Directors, I have signed the UN 80 Civil Society Declaration on behalf of NFBPWC. International President, Diana Barrigan has also signed on behalf of BPW International.

Here is the link: https://mailchi.mp/ngocsw.org/july2023-monthly-newsletter-10639558?e=e35388b7f8

You can sign in support of this letter as individuals. I encourage you to read it for yourself and decide whether you want to sign in support of this as individuals.

Another month, another amazing issue of NFBPWC’s Magazine – another opportunity to thank Michele Guarino, our Extraordinary Magazine Editor. We only have one issue left before she moves to Italy. Her creativity, commitment and deep love for this organization have left an indelible mark. Michele – Thank you!!! You are so very much appreciated.

There’s something powerful about this time of the year. – mid-summer, where reflection and momentum meet. I see our members stepping into leadership, raising their voices and building bridges across generations and borders. You remind me daily of why I am proud to serve as your President.

Speaking of being proud to be your President, and midsummer momentum….

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE!!!

About a year and two weeks ago, you elected a new administration for NFBPWC – and we in turn, selected a new group of committee chairs, making up the 2024-2026 Executive Committee and Board of Directors. Right out of the gate, we faced a massive and exciting shift in the US political landscape, prepared to represent USA at the International Congress and defend our members against difficult accusations, a national election and everything that came – and continues to come with it.

One year in and I am excited and motivated and looking forward to what the next year brings! I hope you all are too!

Welcome to August!!!

BARBARA BOZEMAN, PRESIDENT, NFBPWC, 2024-2026