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Nominations

Kemi Oyebade — Sun, 01 Feb 2026 18:25:00 GMT

“At the heart of leadership is the leader’s relationship with followers. People will entrust their hopes and

dreams to another person only if they think the other is a reliable vessel.” David Gergen, White House Communications Director for Nixon, Ford, Reagan, and Clinton.

As we enter the nominations period, this quote reminds us that leadership in NFBPWC is rooted in trust. The strongest leaders are those who listen, follow through, and create space for others to grow. They inspire confidence not through titles, but through integrity and consistent action.

Think about the members who embody these qualities, the ones who show up prepared, treat others with respect, and strengthen our mission through their reliability and character. These are the individuals who help our organization thrive.

This is the moment to lift up those leaders who have earned your trust. Nominate the person who reflects the spirit of Gergen’s words and will guide NFBPWC forward with purpose and steadiness.

Angie Jackson-Wilson
Chair Nominations
nominations@nfbpwc.org

Finance

Kemi Oyebade — Sun, 01 Feb 2026 18:00:00 GMT

BPW Listens: Your Voice Matters

BPW International is asking all their members for their views in a way that has never been done before in International’s 95-year history.

When the Executive Committee was discussing their plans for this Triennium, they realized they needed to plan beyond this event into the future. In order to do that, they decided to conduct a survey of members. They wanted to know what the members wanted.

To craft the survey, regional meetings were held and questions from everyone were submitted. Independent members reviewed the questions and then chose the questions to be used. Then a pilot test of the system was held to ensure that it was easy for the members to answer the questions and that their responses were received.

This survey is an opportunity for all members to give their voice, rebuild a connection with and reignite engagement with International. This will also help us build bridges between the Regions.

Each region was asked to provide an ambassador to liaison with the federations and affiliates in their region to encourage and ensure as many members as possible respond to the survey and to be a contact if someone is having problems responding to the survey. Each federation and affiliate will also have a focal point person. I have been asked to serve as the ambassador for the North American and the Caribbean Region. Barbara Bozeman will serve as the focal point person for NFBPWC.

Look for the survey in your inbox in early February. When you receive it, please, please complete it and return it. In order to be sure you get it, please make sure you have the correct email on file with National.

Sandy Thompson
Chair Finance
finance@nfbpwc.org

Bylaws & Resolutions

Kemi Oyebade — Sun, 01 Feb 2026 17:45:00 GMT

Bylaws are the Heart of BPW

Within the National Federation of Business and Professional Women’s Clubs (NFBPWC), bylaws are more than procedural guidelines, they are the heartbeat that keeps our Federation strong, ethical, and united across generations and geographic boundaries.

They articulate our purpose, define our structure, and ensure that every member, from local affiliates to national leaders, operates within a shared framework of fairness and integrity.

NFBPWC’s bylaws protect the democratic values that have guided us for more than a century.

They outline how leaders are elected, how decisions are made, and how members participate in shaping the direction of our Federation.

This clarity empowers leaders to lead confidently and members to engage fully, knowing that every action is grounded in an agreed-upon process.

When questions arise, the bylaws serve as our compass: steady, impartial, and aligned with our mission of advocacy, leadership, and professional development.

Because NFBPWC spans diverse states, professions, and perspectives, consistent adherence to bylaws is essential. They ensure transparency, prevent misunderstandings, and uphold the rights of every member.

When followed, they build trust: trust in leadership, trust in decisions, and trust in the Federation’s commitment to equity and accountability.

When neglected or outdated, that trust weakens, and the organization’s rhythm falters.

As our world evolves, so must our governing documents. Regular review and thoughtful amendments keep NFBPWC’s bylaws responsive to emerging needs, new technologies, and the changing landscape of women’s leadership.

Updating bylaws is not merely administrative work; it is an act of stewardship. It honors the legacy of those who came before us, while preparing the Federation for the leaders who will follow.

At their core, NFBPWC’s bylaws are the foundation of effective governance. They safeguard our mission, strengthen our leadership, and ensure that our work, locally, nationally, and internationally, remains aligned with the values that define us.

When understood, respected, and actively used, the bylaws become more than a document. They become the steady heartbeat that keeps NFBPWC vibrant, resilient, and moving forward with purpose.

Angie Jackson-Wilson
Chair Bylaws & Resolutions
bylaws@nfbpwc.org

Determination Helped a Colleague Overcome Bureaucratic Obstacles

For thirty-one years I taught in the English Department of Kingsborough Community College of the City University of New York with the rank of Assistant Professor.

The Department had a requirement, passed retroactively after the college had been in existence for some years, that advancement to Associate and Full Professorships would be denied to anyone in the Department who did not have a PhD. I had failed to complete my PhD thesis, mired in taking care of children, a house, doing all the driving and everything else for the family, including my vision-impaired husband, so I was stuck as an Assistant Professor for the entire time I was teaching.

Our union representative Norah Chase was an extraordinary woman, a close friend who went to bat for me without my requesting her help.

She tried to move mountains, but although she was ultimately unsuccessful as far as official professorial advancement for me was concerned, she brought my talents to the President and the Provost of the college, and I was tapped for the

job of administering a small program designed to bring students who were not quite up to the academic demands of the college to full competence.

I expanded the program from 160 students when I took over to over a thousand students and achieved excellent personal recognition for my work. Throughout, my friend advocated for me, ran interference with the administration, and demanded recognition for my efforts, which I got in terms of being a member of the Faculty Senate, head of the academic program for the entire university, speaker at innumerable conferences.

My friend, our union representative, saw to it that though I could not, because of the rules, get the recognition of academic advancement, I got plenty of personal recognition throughout the university.

I am forever grateful to her for her advocacy.

Public Relations

Kemi Oyebade — Thu, 01 Jan 2026 18:25:00 GMT

Engage with NFBPWC on Social Media

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Nominations

Kemi Oyebade — Thu, 01 Jan 2026 18:20:00 GMT

Call to Action

Members, please consider the needs of our organization, its goals, challenges, and opportunities for growth in the coming year.

Remember, potential leaders emerge through their service, their consistency, their willingness to listen, and their commitment to advancing women’s equality. I invite you to step forward and acknowledge that although it can be daunting, we can all offer our services and leadership in some way. That affirms the reality that leadership is not about perfection, it’s about purpose.

Through nominations and elections, we must choose leaders who embody our mission and who will guide us with clarity, accountability, and heart. Leadership is a shared responsibility, let us see it not only for what it is, but for what it can become.

As we enter the new year, let us nominate with purpose.

And let us continue building a community where every woman, emerging or experienced, knows that her voice, her vision, and her purpose matter.

ANGIE JACKSON-WILSON
Nominations Chair

Please be sure to read the article about leadership, especially as it is practiced within BPW, on page 23. Then take the quiz on the next page and see where you are on the learning ladder. THEN, please consider moving up to the next rung. We need you, we welcome you, and we will support you on your journey.

Nominations

Kemi Oyebade — Thu, 01 Jan 2026 18:15:00 GMT

Finance

Kemi Oyebade — Thu, 01 Jan 2026 17:55:00 GMT

AbsentTea Success and One Woman’s Leadership

THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOU!

We had a small group at our AbsentTea and it was most enjoyable, but it is thanks to all of your generosity that we raised $1,640. This is a great start for our first attempt at fundraising this way.

This month’s theme is Women’s Leadership and Vision. Did you know that the United States has had 46 Treasurers?

Eighteen of them have been women.

Of these 18 women – the one who served longest – was Ivy Baker Priest. She served for eight years from 1953 to 1961 under President Eisenhower.

She was then elected Treasurer of California from 1967 to 1975 under Governor Ronald Reagan.

She became the first woman to nominate a candidate for President from a major political party when she offered Ronald Reagan’s name at the 1980 Republican Convention.

She was married twice and had four children.

Fun fact, her daughter Pat Priest played Marilyn on the 1964-65 TV show The Munsters.

Sandy Thompson
Finance Chair

Leading with Purpose

Kemi Oyebade — Thu, 01 Jan 2026 17:30:00 GMT

A Vision for Women’s Leadership in the New Year

As a new year unfolds, women across our organization step into a season of renewed purpose, sharpened focus, and collective momentum.

Leadership in BPW has never been about holding a title, it’s about carrying a vision. It’s about shaping the future with intention, integrity, and courage.

And this year, that vision is clearer than ever.

“When women lead with purpose, organizations thrive with purpose,” one longtime member reflected during a recent leadership roundtable. That sentiment echoes across every level of BPW, from local organizations to state boards to national committees. The call is simple: lead boldly, lead collaboratively, and lead with the mission at heart.

Honoring the Framework That Guides Us

Strong leadership begins with strong governance. Our bylaws and resolutions are more than procedural documents, they are the backbone of fairness, transparency, and shared understanding. This year, leaders are encouraged to revisit these foundations with fresh eyes.

“Process is not a barrier; it’s a bridge,” said a past state president. “It ensures that every woman’s voice is respected and every decision is grounded in our values.”

Quarterly governance refreshers, open Q&A sessions, and accessible training materials help leaders at every level feel confident and equipped.

Building the Next Generation of BPW Leaders

One of the most exciting priorities this year is strengthening the pipeline of women ready for nomination and service. Leadership development isn’t accidental, it’s intentional, relational, and deeply rooted in mentorship.

This year’s plan includes identifying emerging leaders early, pairing them with seasoned mentors, and offering leadership labs focused on communication, collaboration, and strategic thinking. These aren’t just workshops; they’re incubators for the next generation of BPW visionaries.

“We don’t wait for leaders to appear, we grow them,” a local organization president shared. And she’s right. BPW has always been a place where potential becomes power.

Service as a Leadership Practice

Leadership in BPW is inseparable from service. Each local organization is encouraged to adopt a signature project that reflects the needs of its

community. These projects not only strengthen local impact but also deepen members’ sense of purpose and connection.

Throughout the year, BPW will spotlight stories of women making a difference (watch for them right in this magazine), not for recognition, but for inspiration. These stories remind us that leadership is lived, not declared.

Investing in Women, Personally and Professionally

This year’s vision places a strong emphasis on personal growth as a leadership essential. Workshops on negotiation, advocacy, and financial empowerment will help women strengthen their professional toolkits. Wellness initiatives and peer support circles will nurture resilience and balance.

“A leader who invests in herself invests in everyone she serves,” one mentor noted. That philosophy will guide programming throughout the year.

Communicating With Heart and Clarity

Finally, this year’s leadership plan emphasizes communication that is transparent, timely, and uplifting. Monthly leadership messages, milestone celebrations, and open channels for feedback help every member feel informed and valued.

BPW’s strength has always been its people, women who show up, speak up, and lift up. As we step into this new year, we do so with a shared commitment to lead with purpose, honor our processes, nurture new leaders, and amplify the voices of women everywhere.

This is our moment. This is our movement.

And together, we will shape a year defined by vision, unity, and unstoppable leadership.

Angie Jackson-Wilson
Chair
Bylaws & Resolutions

Bylaws & Resolutions

Kemi Oyebade — Thu, 01 Jan 2026 17:25:00 GMT

Please see the article on Leading with Purpose on the next page and consider running for a leadership position in your local organization or at the national level.

Only together can we lead BPW into the future.

Angie Jackson-Wilson
Chair
Bylaws & Resolutions

Advocacy

Kemi Oyebade — Thu, 01 Jan 2026 17:20:00 GMT

LGBTQ+

Part of what the LGBTQ+ liaison does is provide education and awareness about the community. Hopefully, these links and information will help.

What to focus on for 2026

As we start 2026, it’s important to keep watch on all forms of anti-LGBTQ+ legislation and the mid-terms.

If there is someone you believe we should highlight who is either an LGBTQ+ leader in the community or who supports the community, please let me know. Today the community is targeted more than ever and when one marginalized community is hurt, we all are hurt.

Please remember that this section is not only a source of information on the LGBTQ+ community but an area of

education. If you have a topic you would like to learn more about, please do not hesitate to contact me at soser@nfbpwc.org.

In addition, if you are interested in collaborating on a presentation, having me speak at your meetings, etc., please let me know and I’ll be happy to do so.

Hoping for a wonderful 2026.

Remember to take care of and honor the LGBTQ+ folks in your life.

Susan Oser
Advocacy LGBTQ+ Lead

GOOD NEWS
YouTube phenom Ms. Rachel says LGBTQ+ people are welcome in her classroom https://tinyurl.com/248t6k4m

HOLIDAYS

January 20 MLK Day

January 20-24 No Name-Calling Week January 22 Trans Prisoners Day of Action and Solidarity

January 27 Holocaust Remembrance Day January 29 Brazilian National Day of Transgender Visibility

HAPPENING THIS MONTH

You can participate in “Fighting for Our Pride in the 2026 State Legislative Session.”

January 14 at 8:30pm ET/5:30m PT. Register today at: https://tinyurl.com/p4h43jkc

IN HONOR OF THIS MONTH’S THEME: WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP AND VISION

Information on Congresswoman Sarah McBride: https://mcbride.house.gov/about
Miss Major Griffin-Gracy: https://theoutwordsarchive.org/interview/miss-major-griffin-gracy/?blm_aid=313930753
Meet Tracee McDaniel: https://boldjourney.com/meet-tracee-mcdaniel/?blm_aid=313930753
Caitlin Clark and the 'young and turnt' bring a new vibe to Team USA: https://tinyurl.com/bdbmecpf

IMPORTANT LGBTQ+ HOTLINES & RESOURCES FOR ALLIES TOO

100 Organizations Supporting Trans People in All 50 States—donations welcome: https://tinyurl.com/3vdz89e5
Ali Forney Day Center: 212.206.0574
Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): 800.342.AIDS (2437), Spanish 800.344432
TDD service for the deaf: 800.243.7889. All lines available 10:00am to 10:00pm EST, Monday through Friday.
Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgender National Hotline: 888.843.4564
GLBT National Youth Talkline (youth serving youth through age 25): 800.246.7743
Guide to Being an Ally to LGBTQ+ People: https://tinyurl.com/ycy8eezz
Journalist Resource Series: Guide for Reporting on Anti-Trans Violence:
https://tinyurl.com/53cbmkj8National Runaway Switchboard: 800.RUNAWAY (786.2929)
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 800.273.8255
Transgender Michigan: 855-345-TGMI (8464)
Trevor Project: 866.488.7386

Advocacy ERA

Kemi Oyebade — Thu, 01 Jan 2026 17:15:00 GMT

Summary and Update on EME v Donald Trump

This case is a challenge to the Military Selective Service Act (MSSA), 50 U.S.C. § 3801 et seq., which requires male citizens to register for the draft but bars women from doing so.

On April 3, 2025, Equal Means Equal (EME), a nonprofit advocacy group, and a female Massachusetts resident filed this lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts.

They sued President Donald Trump, the Acting Director of the Selective Service System, and the Selective Service System, alleging violations of the Equal Rights Amendment and the Fifth Amendment’s Equal Protection Clause. Judge William G. Young was assigned to the case.

Represented by the Women’s and Children’s Advocacy Project, the plaintiffs alleged that the individual plaintiff’s attempt to register for the Selective Service had been rejected solely because of her gender and that two EME members had faced similar denials.

They argued that the categorical exclusion of women from Selective Service registration violated the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA), which they claimed became the Twenty-Eighth Amendment to the United States Constitution upon Virginia’s ratification in 2020.

The plaintiffs maintained that the U.S. Supreme Court’s 1981 decision in Rostker v. Goldberg, which upheld the male-only draft registration, no longer controlled because it predated both the ERA’s ratification and significant changes in military policy permitting women to serve in combat roles.

They further alleged a violation of the Fifth Amendment’s Equal Protection Clause, arguing that denying women the right to register served no compelling government interest.

The plaintiffs sought declaratory and injunctive relief. They requested a judicial declaration that the exclusion of women from draft registration was unconstitutional under both the ERA and the Fifth Amendment.

They also sought to enjoin the federal government from continuing to enforce the male-only registration requirement, alleging that the policy stigmatized women and deprived them of equal civic obligations and opportunities.

On June 17, 2025, the defendants filed a motion to dismiss. They argued that the court lacked jurisdiction, that the plaintiffs’ claims under the Administrative Procedure Act were unripe, and that the constitutional claims failed as a matter of law. The motion to dismiss also disputed the plaintiffs’ characterization of the ERA’s ratification status. The court established a briefing schedule, ordering plaintiffs to file their opposition by July 17, 2025.

In their opposition, the plaintiffs reiterated their core arguments that the Military Selective Service Act violated the ERA and the Equal Protection Clause.

They also asserted that this lawsuit, brought by women on behalf of constitutional questions at issue and distinguished it from other cases pending at that time, such as Valame v. Biden. They further argued that the court should apply strict scrutiny instead of intermediate scrutiny, which they claimed had long enabled unequal treatment of women.

A hearing on the motion to dismiss was scheduled for November 17, 2025. It did not happen. Latest update was held on December 8, 2025

Notice of Supplemental Authorities re: 8 Motion to Dismiss for Lack of Jurisdiction Motion to Dismiss for Failure to State a Claim (Holland, Liam) (Entered: 12/08/2025).

Motion to Continue Motion Hearing to 3/3/2026 by Equal Means Equal (Murphy, Wendy) (Entered: 12/10/2025).

Judge William G. Young: Electronic Order entered granting 27 Motion to Continue Motion Hearing to 3/3/2026 by Equal Means Equal. (KB) (Entered: 12/10/2025).

Electronic Notice Resetting Hearing on Motion 8 Motion to Dismiss for Lack of Jurisdiction Motion to Dismiss for Failure to State a Claim.

Motion Hearing reset for 3/24/2026 02:00 PM in Courtroom 18 (remote only) before Judge William G. Young.

Counsel of record will receive a video conference invite at the email registered in CM/ECF. You will find access information here in the March issue.

Congressional Updates from the Alice Paul web site

The Equal Rights Amendments were introduced in the House and Senate during March—Women’s History Month. Representative Pressley’s Bill HJ Resolution 80 now has 215 co-sponsors, including Rep. Bobby Scott We still have three members –Adam Grey, Brian Fitzpatrick, and Henry Cuellar whose signatures are needed. Newly sworn in Rep. Adelita Grijalva (AZ) is expected to join the sponsors.

Senator Murkowski’s Bill SJ Resolution 38 and cosponsor, Senator Mazie Hirano, are working together to secure more members. The Senate bill is a companion bill to the House Resolution and the two bills share the same name: a joint resolution establishing the ratification of the Equal Rights Amendment.

REMEMBER: ERA IS ALREADY THE LAW OF THE LAND.

Three Key Points to share:

The ERA as the 28th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution is a formality, not something needed to make it valid. President Biden’s action confirmed what we already knew. The the amendment fully met all the constitutional requirements with Virginia’s ratification on January 27, 2020.
Time limits are arbitrary. The are not mentioned as part of the amending process in the Constitution.
The fight is now about Awareness and Education. We must ensure that people know the ERA is the law of the land, protecting people from gender-based discrimination in all aspects of life, from reproductive healthcare to workplace equality.

Keep sharing these statements and be positive!

Nancy Werner
Advocacy ERA Lead
2022-2026

Public Relations

Kemi Oyebade — Mon, 01 Dec 2025 18:40:00 GMT

Engage with NFBPWC on Social Media

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Nominations: Will We See YOUR Name in 2026?

Kemi Oyebade — Mon, 01 Dec 2025 18:35:00 GMT

Will We See YOUR Name in 2026?

The future of NFBPWC isn’t waiting. It’s being written by those of us who dare to lead, to serve, and to believe in the power of collective progress.

We take a moment to pause and celebrate the milestones, both great and small, that shaped our journey in 2025. But celebration is only half the story.

Let us look ahead with anticipation toward a future that calls for courage and new voices at the table. The question isn’t just what have we done, but who will rise next?

Will we see your name in nomination in 2026? Here is to stepping forward together.

Wishing you joy, peace, and happiness. May your days be filled with warmth and cheer.

ANGIE JACKSON-WILSON
Nominations Chair

Lifelong Leadership & Learning (L3): December Reflection

Kemi Oyebade — Mon, 01 Dec 2025 18:25:00 GMT

December Reflection

As the year is coming to an end, the Lifelong Leadership & Learning (L3) Committee invites all NFBPWC members and friends into a moment of reflection, gratitude, and forward vision. This season reminds us to pause, celebrate all that we’ve accomplished, and anticipate the impact we are preparing to create.

Celebrating our Growth & our Community

This year, L3 delivered leadership trainings, skill-building workshops, and intergenerational conversations that strengthened confidence,

reinforced capability, and built connections nationally and internationally. We honor every woman who showed up to learn, lead, and support our collective growth. Your participation and feedback motivate us to continue the work within our committee.

Anticipate A Bold 2026 Ahead

The year ahead will bring new leadership modules, expanded mentorship opportunities, interactive learning circles and deeper collaboration across committees, clubs, federations, and affiliates, as well as other leadership and learning organizations.

L3 remains committed to equipping women at every stage of their journey with tools to rise, lead, and create lasting impact.

A Season of Purpose

As we celebrate the progress made, we also anticipate the future we will step into together, carrying forward the lessons, momentum, and shared purpose that have shaped our journey this year.

May the holidays bring you gratitude, clarity, and renewed purpose — and may 2026 find each of us ready to grow and for more information about the L3 program, visit the NFBPWC website or email L3chair@nfbpwc.org

Nicole Mpouli
Lifelong Leadership & Learning Chair
2025-2026

L3 Salutes Nancy Werner

Our national president calls her “Sparkles”. If you know Nancy, you will understand why.

The Lifelong Leadership & Learning (L3) Committee is proud to highlight one of NFBPWC’s most dedicated and longstanding members, Nancy Werner, a woman whose commitment to service, education, and advocacy embodies the spirit of our organization.

Nancy’s BPW journey began at a very young age, and she’s been a member for 54 years!

Her early passion for empowering women evolved alongside a fulfilling 35-year career in education, where she influenced generations of learners with her love of knowledge and her deep belief in opportunity.

In 2018, Nancy transitioned into her family’s business, Ironton Telephone/ Global Company, where she serves as the board’s recording secretary and treasurer. Her leadership, attention to detail, and steady presence continue to strengthen the foundation of the company, just as they do within BPW.

Her contributions to NFBPWC are both extensive and inspiring. Nancy served as NFBPWC Vice President of Advocacy (2018 –2020), championing policy awareness, civic engagement, and the advancement of women’s rights. She is also a charter member of the PA Affiliate Chapter, established in 2012, where she continues to serve today as recording secretary.

Most importantly to us, Nancy joined the Individual Development program in 2005 which evolved into what we know today as the L3 program. Her commitment to her local group and to national initiatives reflects a deep passion for service that spans decades.

Beyond her professional achievements, Nancy’s life is rooted in family. She has been married to her husband Fred for 54 years, and together they are the proud parents of two children who now reside in Massachusetts with their five grandchildren. Nancy makes her home in East Greenville, Pennsylvania, nestled northwest of Philadelphia — a community she loves and continues to support.

Nancy Werner represents the essence of BPW: leadership, longevity, purpose, and heart. We celebrate her dedication, her service, and the powerful example she sets for women across generations.

Nancy’s favorite color is pink. Could you tell?

Health

Kemi Oyebade — Mon, 01 Dec 2025 18:00:00 GMT

Notes from the chair:

Happy Holidays to anyone who celebrates or does not celebrate. My gift to the committee members is another month of rest with committee business being handled via email. We will be starting our meetings back up in January, with a few surprises to come to make the committee even better. In the meantime, remember your own self-care and self-love by making your doctor’s appointments, getting some rest, and enjoying your time with your family and friends.

A Nutrient-Packed Spin on Basic Avocado Toast:

Want to add avocados to your diet, but tired of the same approach? This is a creamy, fiber-rich twist on your classic avocado toast.

The combination of avocado and beans delivers healthy monounsaturated fats and soluble fiber, two nutrients proven to help lower LDL cholesterol. It’s also satisfying, inexpensive, and easy to customize with ingredients you already have in your kitchen. Plus, even if you don’t like beans, it’s unlikely that you’ll taste them, meaning you get all the nutritional benefits hidden in an enjoyable meal.

Ingredients (serves 2):

• 1 ripe avocado

• ½ cup canned white beans (rinsed and drained)

• Juice of ½ lemon

• Pinch of salt and pepper

• Red pepper flakes, or a drizzle of olive oil

• 2 slices whole-grain or sourdough bread

• Optional: poached egg

Directions:

1. In a small bowl, mash the avocado and white beans together with lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth but slightly chunky.

2. Toast your bread until golden.

3. Spread the avocado-bean mixture on each slice.

4. Top with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes and a light drizzle of olive oil.

5. Optional: if you want a little extra protein, you can poach an egg and add to the top of the toast.

Source: https://tinyurl.com/22zemjeh

“Saving medicine to save lives”

Each year, $11 billion worth of unopened, unexpired prescription medication is thrown away — but one organization is working to redistribute it to low-income communities in the US instead. Sirum, a nonprofit social enterprise, makes individuals and organizations aware of what they can donate and disperses unused medicine to those who need it most. “Getting medications to the millions of people who need it to live a healthy life, saving medicine to save lives — that is something we can do today,” said co-founder Kiah Williams in a 2020 TEDTalk video.

Sources:

https://tinyurl.com/mrx83re5

https://tinyurl.com/ycxcf7b4

Other articles related to the theme of Celebrate and Anticipate:

Guilty of Ageism Toward Yourself? Why You Should Stop Saying “I’m Too Old” https://tinyurl.com/4y84ft4n

Mental health, money, and modern life: The pressures squeezing women and how they're re-thinking well-being https:// tinyurl.com/yjsz7th5

Why it's good to be nostalgic: Study suggests you may have more close friends https://www.sciencedaily.com/ releases/2025/03/250313130819.htm

Susan Oser
Health Chair

Finance

Kemi Oyebade — Mon, 01 Dec 2025 17:55:00 GMT

The theme this month is Celebrate and Anticipate. This pairing honors what has been, while looking forward to what will be.

So, I would like to Celebrate all of those you supported our Absent Tea Fundraiser. Your support to help continue the work of our organization is greatly appreciated. We don’t have the final figures as to how much was raised, but I should be able to report it next month. And if you did not have the opportunity to make a donation during the event, we will happily accept your donation at any time.

This is the first time we have done this, and it was wonderful to see the support. We also had a lovely evening get-together. We discussed tea, wine, and various other things.

I would also like to Anticipate looking forward to what we will accomplish next year. We are working on developing next year’s budget for presentation at the January 2026 Board of Directors meeting.

But we also want to Anticipate all the victories that will move us forward as am organization next year and beyond.

Happy holidays to all!

Sandy Thompson
Finance Chair

Bylaws & Resolutions: As 2025 Draws to a Close...

Kemi Oyebade — Mon, 01 Dec 2025 17:35:00 GMT

As 2025 Draws to a Close...

Let us take a moment to celebrate our accomplishments, however small they may seem. In a year marked by both challenge and change, we have stood together. Each step forward has contributed to the strength and spirit of NFBPWC. As we look ahead, may we carry this momentum into 2026 with renewed purpose and unwavering hope. A brighter future is not only possible, it is already taking shape through our collective action.

Angie Jackson-Wilson
Bylaws and Resolutions Chair

Public Relations Committee Report

Kemi Oyebade — Sat, 01 Nov 2025 18:20:00 GMT

Engage with NFBPWC on Social Media

Organization Page:

Group Page:

Organization Page:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2l_ciIxLyvbu1dbBOsV9Tg

YouTube:

Instagram:

Nominations

Kemi Oyebade — Sat, 01 Nov 2025 18:15:00 GMT

Leadership & the Value of Competitive Elections

Leadership within NFBPWC isn’t reserved for the loudest voice in the room, it’s built by those willing to serve, listen, and shape the future. Running for a leadership position is more than a personal milestone; it’s a commitment to our mission, a chance to influence direction, and a powerful way to ensure that diverse voices are heard at every level of our organization.

Whether you're a seasoned member or just beginning your professional journey, stepping into leadership, or nominating someone who inspires you, is a vital act of advocacy. The nomination process is straightforward but deeply meaningful. Members may nominate others or self- nominate by submitting a name, a brief statement of qualifications, and a willingness to serve. Transparency is key: nominations are shared openly and have clear deadlines and criteria, so every candidate has equal footing.

Competitive elections are not about rivalry, they’re about choice. They energize our Federation, spark dialogue, and invite fresh perspectives. When multiple candidates run, members are empowered to evaluate platforms, ask questions, and vote with

intention. This process fosters accountability, encourages innovation, and ensures that leadership reflects the evolving needs of our community.

Too often, potential leaders hesitate, waiting to be tapped on the shoulder or not wanting to run against a colleague or friend. Let’s change that. Let’s normalize self- nomination, celebrate courage, and create a culture where running for office is seen as an act of service, not self- promotion. Competitive elections should be the norm, not the exception, because when more people run, more people engage, and NFBPWC thrives.

So, if you’ve ever thought, “Maybe I could…” this is your sign: You absolutely can. And your voice matters.

ANGIE JACKSON-WILSON
Nominations Chair
2024-2026

GLOBAL LIFE

Kemi Oyebade — Sat, 01 Nov 2025 17:55:00 GMT

Health

Kemi Oyebade — Sat, 01 Nov 2025 17:35:00 GMT

As we are winding down the year, and the holidays are starting, the Health Committee is going to

reduce our own stress and focus on our webpage and finish our project for the year. At the time of this writing, we are discussing rescheduling or even cancelling the last two meetings of the year for this reason. If you are a part of the committee, you will receive updates as they happen.

Food for Thought:

This is a simple graph from the Vulnerability presentation that Susan Oser gave at the Virtual Health Fair. And it is something that we need to take to heart since the holidays can be a stressful time for a lot of people.

Remember that sometimes you don’t have to meet with others during the holidays. Most people use that time to relax and take care of themselves.

November is:

American Diabetes Month
Epilepsy Awareness Month - https:// tinyurl.com/393b4u4y
Hepatitis C (HCV) Education,
Awareness and Screening Month
Lung Cancer Awareness Month
National Alzheimer's Disease Month
National COPD Month - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/COPD_Awareness_Month
National Healthy Skin Month - https:// tinyurl.com/yb62k6pj
National Long-term Care Awareness Month
Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month - https://pancreatic.org/november/

Here are some other articles related to the theme of Allies in Action

Meet the Medical Debt Charity Where Your Donation Gets Multiplied by 100 - https://tinyurl.com/3w7vpwd4
History of Planned Parenthood - https://www.plannedparenthood.org/ about-us/who-we-are/our-history
Bipartisan bill seeks to reinstate national suicide hotline for LGBTQ+ youth - https://19thnews.org/2025/09/lgbtq-youth-suicide-hotline-bill/

Absent-Tea Fundraiser

Kemi Oyebade — Sat, 01 Nov 2025 17:30:00 GMT

You Are Cordially Invited to Attend, or Not Attend, the ABSENT-TEA Fundraiser

Hosted by the National Federation of Business and Professional Women's Clubs

Who doesn't love fancy finger foods accompanied by tea in China cups (pinkies up) and all the formality of a traditional high tea? Only, in this instance, there's no need for you to purchase a new outfit, travel to a destination, tip the valet, or any of the other added expenses when attending an event, because this is an ABSENT-TEA.

By purchasing tickets, you have the honor of supporting the National Federation of Business and Professional Women's Clubs (NFBPWC) from the comfort of your home! We have taken all the hassle out of coming (or not) to our ABSENT-TEA.

However, we will be hosting a Friday evening get-together on November 21, 2025, at 8 pm EDT. You can bring your favorite teacup and tea or another beverage of your choice and enjoy the company of your BPW sisters.

NFBPWC is raising funds to help support our officers so they can represent us at various events to further the business of our Federation, along with other vital projects.

Select how many tickets you and your group need. Then choose the type of tickets you want.

Just My Cup tickets are $20 each.
Brew and Bloom tickets are $50.
The Queen's Cup tickets are$100.
The Garden Table tickets are $200 each.
The Sparkling Steep Society tickets are $300.
Credit or debit card? Visit our website and click the "Donate Now" button.
Zelle? Send payment to Treasurer@nfbpwc.org
Check? Make it out to NFBPWC, write ABSENT-TEA in the memo, and mail it to: Jo Naylorm392 Springhouse Road, King of Prussia, PA 19406.

Want to help the NFBPWC with another amount? Any and all donations are greatly appreciated!!

Here's how to pay:

Credit or debit card? Visit our website and click the "Donate Now" button.
Zelle? Send payment to Treasurer@nfbpwc.org
Check? Make it out to NFBPWC, write ABSENT-TEA in the memo, and mail it to: Jo Naylor 392 Springhouse Road, King of Prussia, PA 19406.

Thank you for your support.

SANDY THOMPSON
FINANCE CHAIR NFBPWC

Finance

Kemi Oyebade — Sat, 01 Nov 2025 17:25:00 GMT

On October 22nd, we had an engaging and informative program on Grant Writing including a lively discussion with three women who write and distribute grants. Our speakers included Renne Johnson, president of Third Wheel Cause Consulting; Edna Karinski, CEO Community Foundation of the Verdugos; and Kelly Klug, Director of Grants Development for Central Carolina Community College.

They were able to give us insight into how to start the process of writing a grant proposal and what you need to know and have before you submit one. They also provided several tips for grant writing.

They are willing to provide a more detailed Grant Writing 101 Course if people are interested. If you are, please email me directly.

DID YOU KNOW?

Before 1974, American women couldn’t open a bank account or get a credit card without a man’s signature. Financial independence wasn’t just rare — it was legally restricted.

So, in 1978, eight Colorado women — Carol Green, Judi Wagner, LaRae Orullian, Gail Schoettler, Wendy Davis, Joy Burns, Beverly Martinez, and Edna Mosely — decided to change that. Each contributed $1,000 to start something revolutionary: The Women’s Bank, built by and for women.

On opening day, lines wrapped around the block in downtown Denver. Women came to deposit their savings — and their faith— into an institution that finally saw them as equals. By nightfall, the bank had collected over $1 million in deposits.

The Women’s Bank wasn’t just a business. It was a declaration: that women didn’t need permission to own, build, or lead. Their courage didn’t just rewrite banking rules — it redefined what financial freedom could look like.

They didn’t ask for a seat at the table. They built their own vault.

PS: You are cordially Invited toAttend or Not Attend our Absent-Tea fundraiser. See next page for details!

Sandy Thompson

Finance Chair

Bylaws & Resolutions

Kemi Oyebade — Sat, 01 Nov 2025 17:05:00 GMT

Meaningful Community Impact in the Governance of our Organization

We believe visionary leadership begins with a wide lens, one that embraces the full scope of our mission, our members, and the communities we serve.

But vision alone does not create impact. It must be paired with intentional action, inclusive governance, and the unwavering resolve to stand as allies in progress.

Leadership at NFBPWC is not just about seeing the path forward, it’s about walking it together.

It’s about stepping forward as allies, amplifying diverse voices, and building meaningful change through connection, compassion, and collective strength.

We move from big picture to fully focused by:

Centering Purpose in Policy: Every bylaw, every vote, every decision is an opportunity to reflect our values, including equity, transparency, and empowerment. Governance becomes a living expression of our advocacy.

Elevating Diverse Voices: We create space for emerging leaders, seasoned mentors, and every member in between. Through structured engagement and open dialogue, we ensure that leadership is not just representative, it’s inclusive and responsive.

Translating Vision into Strategy: Our strategic planning is rooted in clarity and collaboration. We align our goals with community needs, ensuring that our organizational structure supports real- world impact.

Celebrating Accountability as Empowerment: We hold ourselves to high standards not to restrict, but to uplift. Accountability is how we honor our commitments and build trust across generations.

Acting with Heart and Intention: Whether we’re advocating for health awareness, mentoring future leaders, or hosting inclusive events, our governance is guided by empathy and excellence.

In every meeting, every initiative, and every moment of reflection, we ask: How does this serve our members? How does this strengthen our community? How does this honor our legacy while building a future?

Because at NFBPWC, governance isn’t just structure, it’s service. And when we lead as allies in action, we don’t just manage an organization. We move a movement.

Angie Jackson-Wilson

Bylaws and Resolutions Chair

Member Benefits

Kemi Oyebade — Sat, 01 Nov 2025 16:05:00 GMT

Incredible Benefits Available to Leaders, Members, and Affiliate Organizations

INDIVIDUAL BENEFITS

Cultivate worldwide friendships in one of the original women’s organizations.
Formal Lifetime Leadership and Learning (L3) personal and professional growth education programs.
Formal mentoring program.
Business networking opportunities to market and support your own business and professional services.
Access to the Young BPW program (ages 18-35) that is supported both globally and nationally.
Access to student membership opportunities.
Members-only directory supporting members and their organizations.
Participate in the United Nations system worldwide through the Commission on the Status of Women and other programs annually.
Invitation to attend the Biennial General Assembly for NFBPWC, the Triennial Congress for BPW International Conferences, and the BPW International Leaders’ Summit.
Informative monthly magazine that compiles our efforts across the globe and empowers members through education.

AFFILIATION BENEFITS

Dedicated Executive Committee and Board of Directors working to achieve the mission and goals of NFBPWC while supporting a member-based organization.
Connection to a network of hundreds of women nationally and over 3,000 women internationally in 100 countries.
Leadership opportunities locally, regionally, nationally, and globally.
National support through a coordinated digital communication platform, social media, email, website, video conferencing, and monthly magazine.
Platforms and leaders that support membership growth and brainstorm for recruitment.
Access to a national 501c3 parent organization and guidance in creating localized nonprofit status.
Support and guidance for documents and procedures needed to run an effective, efficient, and thriving organization.
Vibrant Young BPW and BPW Student programs to support growth and new leadership.
Rapid response system for members to advocate for legislative issues affecting working women.

Public Relations

Kemi Oyebade — Wed, 01 Oct 2025 17:35:00 GMT

Engage with NFBPWC on Social Media

Organization Page:

Group Page:

Organization Page:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2l_ciIxLyvbu1dbBOsV9Tg

YouTube:

Instagram:

Nominations

Kemi Oyebade — Wed, 01 Oct 2025 17:30:00 GMT

For information please email.

ANGIE JACKSON-WILSON
NOMINATIONS CHAIR
2024-2026

From the NAC Regional Coordinator

Kemi Oyebade — Wed, 01 Oct 2025 17:10:00 GMT

“Inspire, Innovate, Empower, Transform – Together We Shape a Sustainable Future”

Greetings BPW Sisters!

Fall is coming as the leaves on some of the trees here in Canada are starting to turn to their beautiful autumn colors.

NAC held a webinar this month, hosted by our Advocacy Coordinator Colleen Babiuk-Ilkew, titled Advocacy on the Line – Crafting Position Papers to Spark Change.

We appreciate the participation of those of you from NFBPWC who were able to attend, and the tech assistance provided by President Barbara. The recording will be shared when it’s been formatted, so those who were unable to attend can watch and learn as much as we did.

By the time you read this we will also have had our webinar, hosted by Training Coordinator Sujata Tiwari, titled Empowering BPW Leaders. The information shared here will help us all become better leaders and as soon as it is ready, we will be sharing it.

Exciting News! We have booked the hotel for our NAC Regional Conference. We look forward to seeing you at the Hilton Niagara Falls/Fallsview Hotel in Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada, August 23-25, 2026. Our Youth Symposium will be on the afternoon of August 23rd.

We have some other fabulous speakers and events planned for the whole conference, and I know it will energize us all!!

Please make your plans to attend now!

Shuttles are available from Buffalo and Toronto Pearson Airports to Niagara Falls every day for those who need to fly. Amtrak travels directly to Niagara Falls Canada, and you can carpool with other members if you prefer to drive.

There will not be another International Event this close to the US for many years, so now is the time to attend. It’s also a great chance to meet members from around the world!

You can always plan to spend an extra day or two to see the sites in this beautiful region.

Karin Gorgerat
BPW International Regional Coordinator
North America and caribean

International Relations

Kemi Oyebade — Wed, 01 Oct 2025 17:05:00 GMT

For information please email.

LARISA MILLER
BPW GALWAY & NFBPWC USA
NFBPWC INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS CHAIR
(2024-2026)

Health

Kemi Oyebade — Wed, 01 Oct 2025 17:00:00 GMT

The Virtual Health Event on September 20th was a success. We had a lot of great speakers who gave us plenty of information. Lots of it is in the following articles and more will be shared via the NFBPWC social media posts throughout the coming months.

As we finish off the year for this committee, we will focus on working on our page on the NFBPWC website and our project to collaborate more with Houston Medical Center.

How Did Breast Cancer Awareness Month Come to Be? A Look at Breast Cancer in Women

October marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month—a time to honor the advocates, survivors, and researchers who have transformed this disease from a silent killer into a call to action. Since 1989, breast cancer deaths have dropped by 44%, saving more than 500,000 lives. The pink ribbon remains a powerful symbol of hope, but awareness only matters when it leads to action.

Early Detection Matters

Knowing your body is the first line of defense. Monthly self-exams help you notice changes such as lumps, soreness, nipple discharge, or skin irregularities.

Women of all ages should check monthly—post- menopausal women should pick the same date each month. If you find something unusual, call your healthcare provider promptly. Remember: 8 out of 10 lumps are not cancer.

Common Signs and Symptoms

Unexplained changes in breast size or shape
Dimpling or skin changes
Swelling or shrinkage on one side
Inverted nipple or new discharge (especially clear or bloody)
Noticeable asymmetry or persistent pain More details from the CDC.

Types of Breast Cancer

Breast cancer isn’t just one disease. Some of the most common types include:

DCIS: early, non-invasive and highly treatable
IDC & ILC: invasive cancers that spread to nearby tissue
Triple Negative & Inflammatory: rare but aggressive
Metastatic: spreads to bones, liver, lungs, or brain

More details from the American Cancer Society.

Understanding the Stages

Stage 0–1: Earliest forms, highly treatable, ~99% survival.
Stage 2–3: Invasive, may spread to lymph nodes; ~87–99% survival.
Stage 4: Advanced, with spread to other organs. Not curable, but treatable—many now live years.

More details from the American Cancer Society.

Myths and Misconceptions

Don’t let myths cloud your judgment:

Injuries, bras, or deodorant do not cause breast cancer.
Breast size doesn’t affect risk.
Mammograms don’t spread cancer.
Most women diagnosed have no family history.
Breast cancer is not contagious.

What About the Boys?

While Breast Cancer Awareness lasts the whole month of October, the week of the 17th – 23rd is dedicated to the disease in men.

How much do men really know about their possibility of breast cancer?

Men should be familiar with how their breasts typically look and feel so they can detect any changes in the tissue.

Risks and Stats

Male breast cancer represents about 1% of all breast cancers in the U.S.
The average lifetime risk is 1 in 726.
In 2024, about 2,800 men were diagnosed, and roughly 530 died.
Most cases are diagnosed between ages 60–70.
Family history, BRCA gene mutations, hormone imbalances, obesity, alcohol use, liver disease, testicular conditions, radiation, and smoking can all increase risk.

Survival Rates

Localized (early stage): ~95%
Regional (spread to nearby structures/lymph nodes): ~84%
Distant (spread to other organs): ~20%

Signs and Symptoms

Men should know how their chest typically looks and feels, and report changes such as:

A lump under or near the nipple or armpit
Pain or tenderness in the nipple or breast
Skin dimpling, redness, or puckering
Nipple discharge, rash, or sores
An inverted (turned inward) nipple

Because many men delay reporting symptoms, diagnosis often comes late. Early detection makes treatment more effective. Most common breast cancer types in men

DCIS: early, non-invasive and highly treatable
IDC: invasive ductal carcinoma, the most common in both men and women

Stages are gauged the same way they are for women. More from the American Cancer Society.

Diagnosing breast cancer:

Physical exam (self-checks + doctor’s exam)
Mammogram or ultrasound to detect lumps
Biopsy to confirm diagnosis
Other tests (blood markers, scans) may guide treatment decisions.

Personal Stories from Our Members

My Own Breast Cancer Journey

Bonnie O’Leary, BSN, RN, LGBHQC, LNC, Washington State President

My journey into the need for a complete mastectomy was interesting and a little scary. My history: I was in my twenties for my first biopsy since I had cervical cancer removal then! The doctor said I should have a hysterectomy then, but I had not had any children yet, so I declined. I finally had a son, then, within a week after my daughter was born, the doctor insisted on a hysterectomy.

I have had multiple in-person and robot type breast biopsies every six to 12 months over a 40-year period due to dense tissue and my previous cancer. During one regular six-month check-up, I was informed of suspicious areas in both breasts. Both of my breasts had multiple dimpling at all the biopsied areas. Most biopsies had come back as pre-cancer in both breasts, but none had been diagnosed as cancer until the end of 2019.

Surprise: Then COVID happened! I had been working as a pre-surgical quality review nurse for a surgical office in a hospital. I was laid off in February 2020, since all surgeries, except emergencies, were cancelled. Timewise, this worked out because I had to undergo pre-surgical labs and x-rays myself for the suspicious areas, especially in my left breast. I was also referred to cardiology. I knew I had an aortic valve with two leaves inherited from my father and was a little short of breath, but I was not concerned about my heart at that time.

Cardiology Scare: It turned out that I had only a 6% opening in the aortic valve in my heart, so I had to undergo a TAVR procedure (valve replacement) prior to considering breast surgery. If they had not done a thorough pre-surgical exam, I could have died in surgery from a clogged valve! I was monitored for a month at home before I received approval to undergo breast surgery.

Surgery In addition to my own history, my younger sister and two of my cousins on my father’s side, had all undergone bilateral mastectomies a few months before mine. As you read earlier in this article, this is one of the risk factors.

I followed this information in making my final decision. The original plan, prior to the TAVR, was to just have a focused laser to the biopsy area to destroy any remaining cancerous cells post biopsy. This original plan could not work since the new heart valve was in line with the laser beam. After further discussions with my oncologist and my husband and bearing in mind the history of my family’s mastectomies and my history of multiple biopsies, we decided to undergo bilateral removals.

The surgery went well with close cardiology monitoring. A few weeks after the mastectomies, Ihadbilateral implants placed above the chest muscles. Another good thing was that the plastic surgeon was able to save my nipples and sew them back on. My breasts looked normal post-op.

Post-op: I had three surgeries in two months and had a long healing period, including a cardiology monitored exercise program at the hospital for three months. I went back to work, virtually from home, as a COVID lab review nurse in September of 2020.

The bottom line here is do not avoid doing your manual self-checks or skip your annual physician and mammography exams. Even though I did both checks, I could not feel my lumps due to the tissue density, biopsy scarring, and depth of the tumors. You never know! Don’t assume.

The journey was scary – receiving my new heart valve and two breast surgeries in a short period of time, but I kept my faith. It’s been five years now and I am alive due to the new heart valve, and my breasts look fabulous, due to the excellent skill of the surgeons. It is nice that you have choices of size of implants, under or over the chest muscles, and ability to keep your nipples (if the surgeon says it is possible based on the area of the cancer).

My Breast Cancer Journey

Judy Keyt, MBA, BSN, RN, Washington State Secretary Did you know that one out of every eight women in Washington will be diagnosed with breast cancer? Or that everyone will eventually know someone who has it?

The probability is high, and preventive measures are imperative.

My family history: We often think breast cancer is only or mainly genetic. Surprisingly, many cases are not genetically linked.

Seems odd. My mother had breast cancer and a double mastectomy with a year of chemo. I still remember the day she begged me to put her to sleep. My sister is also a breast cancer survivor and recently underwent a double mastectomy with reconstruction. I guided her to take that action which I will explain later. I am a two-time breast cancer survivor with a double mastectomy and reconstruction. None of us are genetically linked.

My journey started at the age of 40. At that time, mammograms were considered unnecessary at that age, which we know now was a big diagnostic mistake. I am grateful that I am a nurse and was working as a hospital administrator at the time. My OB GYN agreed to order a mammogram. The first reading was negative. My buddy in radiology was bored one night and decided to look at it again. He detected cancer. If this hadn’t happened, I would not be here writing this today. I was engaged to be married. My surgeon returned from vacation and performed a lumpectomy, being careful that the incision would not show in my wedding dress. The surgery occurred six days before my wedding. My journey entailed high dose radiation and tamoxifen for 5 years.

RECURRENCE: At year six, the cancer returned with some suspicion in the right breast. I consulted my surgeon and made the decision to reduce the risk of return and undergo a double mastectomy with reconstruction and nine months of high dose chemotherapy, all while I worked full time. I learned there is a high probability of uterine or ovarian cancer, so I elected to also have a full hysterectomy. He said if you were my wife or sister, I would encourage you to do this. That’s all it took. He saved my life

EMOTIONS: My first thought when I heard I had breast cancer was “I don’t want to die.” Fear set in, followed by anger. “It’s not fair!” I struggled with the feeling of not being a female – no breasts, no uterus – how would I describe myself? Today I am a Breast Cancer Supporter and volunteer to guide other women through their journey.

THE IMAGES: “He won’t love me.” “I’m a freak.” “Who would want to be with me?” After many years I’ve found all those thoughts were not true, although there is always someone out there that can’t deal with it.

Hair loss is another image hurdle you may deal with, but you will survive, and your hair will grow back.

MY ADVICE: Don’t ever just “wait and watch and check it later.” BIG Mistake! Don’t take baby steps with a lumpectomy, radiation, tamoxifen… Cancer will most likely return any given time. I absolutely recommend a mastectomy and wish I had made that choice initially, although that is a very difficult choice to make at that time. Radiation destroys the elasticity and texture of your skin for life, and I believe these steps are a band aid. Chemo and the drugs they have today make it more bearable.

I encourage everyone to make the choice, as difficult as it is, and eliminate cancer before it’s too late.

All articles by Bonnie O’Leary (Washington State President) and Judy Keyt (Washington State Secretary) The Health Committee meets on the 4th Monday of the month, unless there are conflicts or holidays. Our next meeting is October 26, 2025.

Susan Oser
Chair

Finance

Kemi Oyebade — Wed, 01 Oct 2025 16:55:00 GMT

Don’t forget! We are hosting an engaging and informative Grant Writing Panel, designed to empower individuals and organizations seeking funding for their projects, programs, or research.

Date: October 22, 2025
Time: 8 p.m. EDT
Location: Zoom

Join us for an insightful discussion with experienced grant writers, funders, and nonprofit leaders as they share practical strategies, insider tips, and lessons learned from successful proposals. Whether you're new to grant writing or looking to sharpen your skills, this panel is an excellent opportunity to gain valuable knowledge and get answers to your questions directly from experts.

Panel Topics Include:

Identifying the right funding opportunities
Crafting compelling narratives
Budgeting tips and common pitfallsUnderstanding funder expectations
Q&A with the panelists The panelists are:
Kelly Klug - Third Wheel Cause Consulting
Renee Johnson - Director of Grants for Central Carolina Community College
Edna Karinski – Community Foundation of the Verdugos

We hope to see you there!
Also, make sure to check out the flyer about our ABSENT-TEA fundraiser (p31)! It’s a great way to support our organization.

Sandy Thompson NFBPWC
Finance Chair

EVERY WOMAN’S SUCCESS SHOULD BE AN INSPIRATION TO ANOTHER, WE’RE STRONGEST WHEN WE CHEER EACH OTHER ON.

-Serena Williams World-class athlete

Bylaws and Resolutions

Kemi Oyebade — Wed, 01 Oct 2025 16:35:00 GMT

For information please email.

ANGIE JACKSON-WILSON

NFBPWC BYLAWS AND RESOLUTION CHAIR

2024-2026

Public Relations

Kemi Oyebade — Mon, 01 Sep 2025 17:35:00 GMT

Engage with NFBPWC on Social Media

Organization Page:

Group Page:

Organization Page:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2l_ciIxLyvbu1dbBOsV9Tg

YouTube:

Instagram:

https://opac.sbn.it/risultati-ricerca-avanzata/-opac-adv/index/1/ITICCUCFI0590097?fieldstruct%5B1%5D=ricerca.parole_tutte%3A4%3D6&fieldvalue%5 B1%5D=katia+reda&fieldaccess%5B1%5D=Any%3 A1016%3Anocheck&struct%3A1001=ricerca.parol e_almeno_una%3A%40or%40&count_noelet=&i d=generated_id_44&formato_elet=

Nominations

Kemi Oyebade — Mon, 01 Sep 2025 17:30:00 GMT

NFBPWC’s Commitment to Empowering the Next Wave of Leadership

In today’s rapidly evolving professional landscape, the National Federation of Business and Professional Women’s Clubs (NFBPWC) is embracing a bold truth: the future of leadership lies in the hands of its younger members. With fresh perspectives, digital fluency, and a passion for equity, these emerging leaders are not just the next generation, they are the now.

Recognizing this, NFBPWC has expanded its resources to meet young professionals where they are. The Young BPW program offers tailored mentorship, leadership training, and networking opportunities that bridge generational wisdom with modern innovation. From virtual roundtables to global advocacy initiatives, younger members are invited to lead, speak, and shape the organization’s direction.

What makes this moment especially powerful is the climate of openness and renewal. With leadership transitions underway and a renewed focus on inclusivity, younger members are being actively encouraged to step into roles that matter, committee chairs, national and international board positions. Their strengths in collaboration, tech-savviness, and social impact are not only welcomed but needed.

NFBPWC’s investment in younger voices isn’t symbolic, it’s strategic. By capitalizing on their energy and insight, the organization ensures its mission remains vibrant, relevant, and future-ready. For those seeking purpose, community, and a platform to lead, the opportunity is now.

Call to Action: Young BPW, Your Time Is Now

Are you ready to shape the future of NFBPWC?

Whether you're an early-career professional, emerging business leader, or rising entrepreneur, your voice matters. This is your arena—where leadership development meets a bold, rising agenda.

Join the movement. Become part of the leadership team driving change and equity on both national and international platforms. You’ll do so with the support of seasoned mentors who believe in your potential and are ready to walk beside you.

Step into leadership. Step into impact. Step into your legacy.

Angie Jackson-Wilson

NFBPWC Nominations

CHAIR 2024-2026

Lifelong Leadership & Learning (L3)

Kemi Oyebade — Mon, 01 Sep 2025 17:20:00 GMT

You can direct questions to L3Chair@NFBPWC.org

Nicole Mpouli

Lifelong Leadership & Learning Committee Chair

(2025-2026)

Meet the Standing Committee Chair for Public Relations (IFBPWC)

Kemi Oyebade — Mon, 01 Sep 2025 17:10:00 GMT

What is the committee's Strategic Plan or focus for this term?

Our Strategic Plan for this term, up to December, focuses on enhancing engagement and communication with our stakeholders (basically Universities and Schools).

Main objectives are increasing awareness of our initiatives, fostering partnerships within the communities and levering social media to disseminate information. As Committee I am surrounded by extremely professional women in different areas, so each of them is giving a significant contribution.

We have organized an online event with Lebanon to talk about Citizenship for a Better Future with Youth in Adduha High School.

In October we are organizing a conference with Bicocca University in Milan where BPW is present as partner; in November I am personally joining Mediterranean Symposium in Cyprus where I attend a panel on our activities.

Regular events will be organized to build trust and visibility to our organization. Positive actions can create trust and desire to join. We need more young members and Universities and Schools are the most important vehicle to reach them.

What is one way the members outside your committee can support or amplify your work?

One effective way for Members outside the committee to support or amplify our work is by sharing our initiatives and achievements within their own networks. This could involve promoting our events, projects or resources on social media, discussing them in forums in order to increase visibility and engagement, they can help us reach a broader audience and garner more support for our goals.

My message to USA members

Dear BPW sisters, we are excited about the opportunity to connect and collaborate with all of you. Building a strong network is essential for our growth and success, and we believe that together we can achieve great things.

Let’s try to support each other, creating a last relationship. BPW can be a means to connect, but then, it depends on us to support and believe in our actions.

Let’s make our voice strong and inspiring to empower women in our Communities.

Dr. Katia Reda Belongs to FIDAPA BPW Italy; born in Catanzaro where she works as Professor at University of Magna Grecia in Catanzaro at the Faculty of Sociology. (DIGES)

She has written an essay on film adaptation of Shakespeare ‘s works present in the Italian national catalogue OPAC;

President of NGO, AIDO (Organs Donation) for 13 years.

Expert in Erasmus Project + Expert in Mentoring with Certification taken in Istanbul (Turkey) “Mindful based on Coaching for Education” in 2017

Since 2014 dedicated the activity on Mentoring at International and European Level currying out workshop In Zurick, Galway during European Conferences.

Since 2021 and up to now is National Referent for FIDAPA BPW Italy of Mentoring Program.

In 2024, elected as Chair of Standing Committee Public Relations.

In May 2025 during the European Conference in Malta run a round table on PR and Communication.

Health

Kemi Oyebade — Mon, 01 Sep 2025 16:55:00 GMT

Our health committee meetings are held on the 4^th Mondays of the month unless there is a conflict or a holiday. Our next meeting with be September 20, 2025 at 4pm ET.

Notes from the Chair:

Health Event Information:

Speakers included at this event are our own Marsha Riibner-Cady, Secretary Nermin Ahmad, L3P Chair Nicole Mpouli and more. You can register for the whole event and come when you are able. It all depends on you. Looking forward to seeing you at this healthyevent.Registerat: https://www.nfbpwc.org/event-6312511

From Bindu Cherbeolu, Houston Methodist Hospital, a featured speaker of Health Committee Online event:

Sauna bathing features exposure to high environmental temperatures for brief periods. Infrared saunas are one of the most widely available types. Multiple cultures around the world use heat therapy for its benefits and rejuvenating and recharging qualities referencing the saunas of Finland, Turkish hammams, the sweat lodges enjoyed by American Indian, Russian Banya, and hot springs. “In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) heat therapy can help correct imbalances that lead to physical, mental, and even spiritual pain, Infrared saunas are believed to have several health benefits, including the potential to widen blood vessels and increase blood flow. The idea behind this is that the heat generated by the infrared sauna can cause vasodilation, which is the widening of blood vessels. When blood vessels widen, it can lead to increased blood flow.

However, it's important to note that the extent and speed of this effect can vary from person to person. Some individuals may experience a noticeable increase in blood flow within a few minutes of entering an infrared sauna, while others may take longer. The heat and duration of sauna sessions can also influence the degree of vasodilation and increased blood flow.

Sauna bathing is thought to positively affect vascular disease and mortality risk through various pathways. These include lowering blood pressure; improving the function of the inner layer of blood vessels; reducing oxidative stress and inflammation; positively influencing the nervous system that controls involuntary bodily functions; altering levels of blood substances that affect vascular risk; causing hormonal changes; improving arterial flexibility, compliance, and wall thickness; and enhancing both cardiorespiratory and overall heart function.

It's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before using an infrared sauna, especially if you have any underlying medical conditions or concerns about its effects on your cardiovascular system. Additionally, be sure to follow recommended safety guidelines when using saunas to avoid any potential risks or adverse reactions.

Infrared saunas, recognized for brief high-temperature exposures, are part of a global tradition of heat therapy, valued for health and rejuvenation. This therapy is embraced in various forms across various cultures like hot spring baths, Russian Banya, Finnish saunas, Turkish hammams, and also used in Traditional Chinese Medicine to alleviate physical, mental, and spiritual discomfort.

Infrared saunas are thought to offer health benefits, primarily by causing vasodilation - the expansion of blood vessels due to heat exposure. This process can enhance blood circulation. It's key to recognize, though, that individuals may respond differently to this effect. While some might quickly notice increased blood flow after entering an infrared sauna, others may have a slower response. The temperature and length of sauna sessions are also factors that can affect how much and how quickly blood vessels widen and blood flow increases. There are other potential beneficial mechanisms as well for overall cardiovascular health which include decreasing oxidative stress and inflammation, autonomic regulation, and better arterial compliance.

However, it's essential to consult healthcare professionals before sauna use, especially for those with health concerns, and to adhere to safety guidelines.

In sauna bathing, unlike during physical exercise, there is no active movement or engagement of your muscles. This contrasts with physical activities where muscle movement plays a key role in the body's response.

From a physiological standpoint, infrared saunas and exercise like taking a walk can have some similar effects on the body, but they work in different ways and have distinct benefits.

Sweating: Both infrared saunas and exercise can make you sweat. Sweating is the body's way of cooling down and getting rid of toxins. In this regard, they are somewhat similar.

Heart Rate: Exercise significantly increases your heart rate, while infrared saunas typically do not raise your heart rate as much. Exercise is a cardiovascular activity that strengthens the heart and improves overall fitness.

Calorie Burn: Exercise, especially moderate to intense forms like walking, burns calories, which can help with weight management. Infrared saunas may increase calorie expenditure to some extent due to the heat, but it's not a substitute for exercise in terms of calorie burning.

Muscle Engagement: Exercise involves the use of muscles and can lead to muscle strengthening and toning. Infrared saunas do not provide this benefit.

Endorphin Release: Exercise is known to release endorphins, which are natural mood lifters. Infrared saunas may also promote relaxation and a sense of well-being, but they don't trigger the same level of endorphin release as exercise.

Detoxification: Both exercise and sweating in an infrared sauna can help with detoxification by flushing out toxins through the skin. However, the mechanisms differ.

In summary, while both infrared saunas and exercise can have positive effects on the body, they serve different purposes. Exercise is crucial for cardiovascular health, muscle strength, and weight management, while infrared saunas are often used for relaxation, stress relief, and detoxification. It's important to note that individual responses may vary, and incorporating both into a wellness routine can provide comprehensive benefits. Always consult with a healthcare professional before making significant changes to your health regimen.

Well-designed RCTs with long-term follow-up will still be needed to confirm whether the observed associations reflect a true causal effect of frequent sauna bathing on these health conditions, and more studies are warranted to find whether regular sauna bathing could produce longer-term changes in cardiovascular health.

These findings suggest the physiological effects of infrared sauna bathing are underpinned by thermoregulatory-induced responses, more so than exercise-mimetic cardiorespiratory or cardiovascular activations.

From a physiological standpoint, saunas and exercise like taking a walk do have some similarities in their effects on the body, but they are not identical.

Increased Heart Rate: Both saunas and exercise can increase your heart rate. In a sauna, the heat causes your heart rate to rise as your body attempts to cool itself down. During exercise, your heart rate naturally increases as you engage in physical activity.
Sweating: Saunas induce sweating, which can help in detoxification and cooling the body. Exercise also causes sweating as the body tries to regulate its temperature.
Improved Circulation: Both saunas and exercise can improve blood circulation. Saunas cause blood vessels to dilate, increasing blood flow, while exercise enhances circulation through physical activity.
Stress Reduction: Saunas are known for their relaxing effect, reducing stress and promoting a sense of well-being. Exercise can also reduce stress and improve mood through the release of endorphins.
Detoxification: Saunas are often associated with detoxification benefits, as sweating helps eliminate some toxins. Exercise can also aid in the removal of waste products from the body through increased circulation.

However, there are significant differences:

Muscle Engagement: Exercise involves physical activity that engages muscles, leading to strength and endurance gains. Saunas do not provide the same muscular benefits.
Calorie Burn: Exercise burns calories, helping with weight management, while saunas primarily cause water weight loss through sweating, which is temporary.
Aerobic Fitness: Exercise, especially activities like walking, improves aerobic fitness, while saunas do not provide the same cardiovascular conditioning.
Hydration: Saunas can lead to dehydration due to excessive sweating, whereas exercise encourages water intake to replace lost fluids.

In summary, while saunas and exercise share some physiological responses, they are distinct in their effects on the body. Exercise offers a broader range of health benefits, including improved fitness, while saunas are primarily used for relaxation and temporary detoxification through sweating. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating either into your routine, especially if you have any underlying health conditions.

Heart Rate Increase: Both saunas and walking can raise heart rate, but exercise does so more significantly due to physical exertion.
Sweating: Saunas and exercise both induce sweating for body temperature regulation.
Circulation: Both improve blood circulation, with saunas causing vasodilation and exercise enhancing it through movement.
Stress Reduction: Exercise is known to release endorphins, which are natural mood lifters. Infrared saunas may also promote relaxation and a sense of well-being, but they don't trigger the same level of endorphin release as exercise.
Detoxification: Both methods aid detoxification via sweating, but the mechanisms are different.
Muscle Engagement: Exercise strengthens and tones muscles, an effect not provided by saunas.
Calorie Burn: Walking burns more calories than saunas, which mainly induce water weight loss. Infrared saunas may increase calorie expenditure to some extent due to the heat, but it's not a substitute for exercise in terms of calorie burning.
Overall Fitness: Exercise offers aerobic fitness benefits, unlike saunas.

In summary, while saunas and walking share some physiological effects like increased heart rate and sweating, they differ in key areas. To truly understand the impact of regular sauna bathing on health conditions and long-term cardiovascular health, well-designed randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are warranted.

Food for Thought:

Raise your hand if you know someone who has been diagnosed with cancer. Raise your hand if you know someone that’s had a heart attack, stroke or heart disease. Raise your hand if you know anyone that’s been involved in any kind of accident. I guarantee every reader raised their hand at least once and unfortunately, many of us just raised our hand three times.

News flash, bad things happen to good people.

The American Cancer Society says that 1 out of 3 women will be diagnosed with cancer. The American Heart Association says that heart attacks and strokes cause 1 out of 3 deaths in the US. The National Safety Council says that there are approximately 5400 disabling accidents every hour.

I know! The stars are frightening, and it leaves us feeling vulnerable. And it should prompt the question “What’s going on?”. Is it our food? Yes. Is it hereditary? Yes. Is it our environment, stress, inactivity? Yes, yes and yes.

It’s no surprise that Gallup News reported that Americans borrowed an estimated $74 billion for healthcare expenses last year (and this is one of the moremodestestimates).So,isour healthcare industry broken? Possibly.

There are two costs that we face when dealing with any major accident or illness. The first is direct costs. These costs are covered by your major medical provider. Things like hospital charges and doctors’ bills. The second is indirect cost. These are expenses that your major medical insurance will not cover because they simply weren’t designed to. Things like lost income, mortgage, car payments, cell phones, utilities and basic living expenses. We can also include insurance limitations like deductibles, copayments, ambulances and other uncovered expenses.

When we get sick or hurt, our balance of life is disrupted. This thing that we all work so hard to perfect can be instantly (or in some cases slowly) ruined. You want to know how it happens? The sickness or accident happens. You can’t work as much, if at all. Income goes down, expenses go up, and that leaves most people in a really tough situation. When you should be somewhere focusing on healing- you’re scrambling to find extra funds just to make ends meet. So, some people use their retirement funds. Many will sell their personal assets and others are forced to start Go Fund Me accounts. None of these are great options, for obvious reasons.

Let’s take a moment and consider your situation. You’ve got major medical insurance. Fantastic. That pays hospitals and doctors. Most of you have a life insurance policy. Spectacular, but your love ones will see this money after you die. Disability insurance doesn’t last forever, and it typically pays about 60% of what you need to survive. What’s missing for most working-class Americans is a benefit that will assist with living expenses, WHILE YOU ARE ALIVE and on the road to recovery. Some people call it supplemental insurance, but I like to call it LIVING INSURANCE and it’s worth looking into.

Juanita Curtis, Licensed Insurance Producer Globe Life, Family Heritage Division

juanita.globelife@gmail.com 919-584-7091

Healthy Thinking of the Month:

Health Awareness Dates:

September is –

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Month; Atrial Fibrillation Month; Mold Awareness Month; National Alcohol & Drug Addiction Recovery Month; National Be A Food Hero Month; National Cholesterol

Education Month; National DNA, Geonomics & Stem Cell Education Month; National Head Lice Prevention Month; National Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month

(Gov't) ; National Service Dog Month; National Skin Care Awareness Month; September Is Healthy Aging Month; Sports and Home Eye Health & Safety Month; World Alzheimer's Month

Blood Cancer Awareness Month - https://bloodcancermonth.org/

Childhood Cancer Awareness Month - https://childrenscancer.org/childhood-cancer-awareness-month/

Cholesterol Education Month - https://tinyurl.com/57k7mek7

Gynecology Cancer Awareness Month - https://histio.org/get-involved/raise-awareness/

Histiocytosis Awareness Month - https://www.hydroassoc.org/

National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month - https://wicworks.fns.usda.gov/topic/health-observances/national-childhood-obesity-awareness-month

National Suicide Prevention Month - https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/promote-national-suicide-prevention-month/

Pediatric Cancer Awareness Month - https://bearnecessities.org/

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome Awareness Month - https://www.pcosaa.org/

Self-Care Awareness Month - https://www.theriverbendhouse.com/

Other Articles Related to the Theme of Young BPW:

We Don't Actually Know Anything About Video Games - The biggest problem with research on video games. - https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/video-game-health/202507/we-dont-actually-know-anything-about-video-games

A surprising connection for Gen Z: mental health and retirement benefits - https://tinyurl.com/3xtxve2nv

Social media still pushing suicide-related content to teens despite new UK safety laws - https://tinyurl.com/3bhvbemk

We will meet on the 3^rd or 4^th Monday of the month unless there are any conflicts or holiday forthcoming. Next meeting is September 20, 2025.

Health:

During the UN General Assembly High-level week 2025, there will be a “High-level Meeting on the Prevention and Control of Noncommunicable Diseases and the Promotion of Mental Health and Well-Being” on September 25^th from 10am to 6pm This is available for viewing via UN WebTV https://webtv.un.org/en/schedule

Finance

Kemi Oyebade — Mon, 01 Sep 2025 16:50:00 GMT

We are pleased to invite you to an engaging and informative Grant Writing Panel hosted by NFBPWC Finance Committee, designed to empower individuals and organizations seeking funding for their projects, programs, or research.

Event Details:

Date: October 22, 2025 Time: 8 p.m. EDT Location: Zoom

Panel Topics Include:Identifying the right funding opportunities

Crafting compelling narratives
Budgeting tips and common pitfalls
Understanding funder expectations
Q&A with the panelists

Meet the Panelists:

TBD
Kelly Klug
Renee Johnson

We hope to see you there!

Sandy Thompson

NFBPWC Finance Chair

Bylaws and Resolutions

Kemi Oyebade — Mon, 01 Sep 2025 16:30:00 GMT

Why They Matter to Emerging Business Leaders

Today’s organizations are vibrant mosaics, interwoven with generations, cultures, genders, and leadership stages. This diversity brings richness, but also complexity, especially when it comes to navigating bylaws, orders, and procedures. For early career professionals and emerging business leaders, often stepping into mission-driven spaces with fresh energy and evolving expectations, structured guidelines can be both grounding and transformative.

Contrary to the stereotype of resistance, many of these rising leaders crave clarity. They want to understand not just what is expected, but how those expectations align with the organization’s values and goals. Bylaws and procedures, when communicated transparently and framed as tools for fairness and empowerment, become less about control and more about collaboration. These professionals aren’t looking to bypass structure; they’re looking to engage with it meaningfully.

Procedures offer a roadmap, especially for those early in their leadership journey. They help level the playing field, ensuring that responsibilities and opportunities aren’t left to interpretation or legacy alone. But the key lies in accessibility. When bylaws are buried in jargon or handed down without context, engagement falters. When they’re presented as living documents, open to dialogue, shaped by shared purpose, emerging leaders lean in.

Organizations that treat procedures not as relics but as evolving frameworks will thrive. Early career

professionals don’t fear structure, they fear irrelevance. Give them clarity, purpose, and a voice in the process, and they’ll not only uphold the mission, but they’ll also help carry it forward.

3 Ways to Engage Emerging Leaders in Governance

Demystify the Documents -Host interactive sessions that walk through bylaws and procedures with real-world examples. Make space for questions and context.
Invite Feedback, Not Just Compliance - Create channels for early career professionals to suggest updates or flag ambiguities. Treat governance as a shared responsibility.
Connect Structure to Mission - Show how each procedure supports the organization’s values, equity, and long-term goals. When purpose is clear, participation follows.

Angie Jackson-Wilson
NFBPWC Bylaws and Resolution Chair
2024-2026

Public Relations

Kemi Oyebade — Fri, 01 Aug 2025 17:45:00 GMT

Engage with NFBPWC on Social Media

Organization Page:

Group Page:

Organization Page:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2l_ciIxLyvbu1dbBOsV9Tg

YouTube:

Instagram:

Nominations

Kemi Oyebade — Fri, 01 Aug 2025 17:40:00 GMT

Celebrating Women’s Equality Day: Honoring the Power of Representation

Dear BPW Members,

On August 26th, we celebrate Women’s Equality Day— a milestone commemorating the 1920 passage of the 19th Amendment and a movement much larger than one vote. This day honors the collective fight for voice, presence, and participation. And as Nominations Chair, I see daily how that legacy lives on—one leadership slate at a time.

Representation is not symbolic. It is strategic. The moment a woman steps forward as a candidate, she carries more than credentials—she carries possibility. At every level of BPW, the nominations process ensures that equity isn’t accidental; it’s intentional. We identify leaders not just for what they’ve done, but for the diversity of experiences and perspectives they bring.

When we connect locally, we tap into talent that mirrors our communities. By uniting nationally, we build pathways to collaboration and continuity. And as we ignite globally, we inspire leadership that knows no border, no ceiling, and no stereotype.

The act of nominating is itself a form of advocacy. It’s a declaration: We see you. We believe in you. And we need you.

On this day of reflection, let us remember that our progress was built by women who stepped forward before they were invited. Today, we formalize that invitation—in ballots, in bylaws, and in belief.

Let’s continue to champion candidates who embody our mission and magnify our movement. Because every name submitted is a spark. And together, we’re lighting the way.

Call for Nominations: Help Shape the Future of BPW

We are looking for bold, committed, visionary members to carry forward our legacy and lead with purpose.

When nominating a fellow member, consider those who:

• Champion NFBPWC initiatives and foster national and global connections

• Can collaborate effectively across our national network.

• Bring fresh energy to global advocacy for women

A nomination is more than a name; it’s a step toward the future we’re building together.

In equity and empowerment,

ANGIE JACKSON-WILSON

NFBPWC NOMINATIONS CHAIR

2024-2026

Lifelong Leadership & Learning (L3)

Kemi Oyebade — Fri, 01 Aug 2025 17:30:00 GMT

This month, the L3 team wants to share the history of the Lifelong Leadership and Learning program – 71 Years in the Making.

Lifelong Leadership and Learning - How it all began

Barbara J. Davis, Past State President-CFBPW, member NFBPWC L3 Committee

In 1954, the leadership of Sierra Mar District, a district in the California Federation BPW, felt there was a need for a specific aid for members’ leadership development and club orientation of Federation principles among their fifty-six clubs. In answer to this need, the Leadership Development Project was born. The initial course developed was seven months long and members attended a monthly training.

Credit for development of the program goes to Julia K. Arri. Ms. Arri was President of CFBPW in 1966-67, President of BPWUSA in 1979-1980, and served as International BPW Treasurer. Ms. Arri was dedicated to the cause of developing membership potential not only in the field of leadership but in the overall betterment of Business and Professional Women on the job and in their community.

The resource materials for the earliest courses were the California Handbook of Federation Procedures (CFBPW), Handbook of Federation Procedures (BPWUSA), “How To” manual (BPWUSA), Roberts Parliamentary Law, Sierra Mar District Procedure Manual, and “Time to Speak Up”- A Speaker Handbook for Women by Jessie Haver Butler (published in 1946).

The Leadership Development Project was renamed Individual Development Program in the early 1970s. The training materials were shared with other districts in California and State Federations nationally. Many of the districts added to the materials, topics important to their members and eventually a California Federation BPW Individual Development Program was developed and used consistently through California.

In July 1992 BPWUSA launched a three-year plan called BuildingWomenPower. This plan encompassed three aspects to increase working women’s total effectiveness: Politically – by supporting working women’s issues through BPW’s nationwide network; Professionally – by accessing the tools needed for career advancement and entrepreneurial success; and Personally – by developing skills through BPW’s Individual Development Program, the Young Careerist Program and the partnership of CHOICES.

The Individual Development Program was published in 1994 with a program developed by Rosemary Agonito, Ph.D. The program and materials were copyrighted in 1994 by the National Federation of Business and Professional Women. All Clubs and Federations were instructed to utilize this program rather than the separate programs previously used by Clubs and Federations.

Shortly after the 1994 update, the Individual Development program added a speaking competition which included progressive competitions with winners from Club competitions, going to State competitions and those State winners, participating in the National Competition. The prepared speech portion of the IDP was a challenge for many attendees. However, many attribute their ability to speak both at work and publicly because they overcame that challenge through IDP. The other portion of the speaking training was through impromptu speeches. The participants were given a topic, ten seconds to consider the topic, and then they were to speak on that topic for two minutes. I recall an instructor said the reason for impromptu speeches was “the fact that you didn’t leave home every morning prepared for questions you would be asked that day, so you needed to be able to think on your feet.”

In July 2004, the Individual Development Program was updated recognizing that the Individual Development Program was one of the key programs of BPW/USA and a testament to the belief in making a difference for women today and for the future of BPW. Dr. Trish Knight, BPW/MI, Past National President, was recognized for her leadership, dedication and hard work in updating and producing the materials.

At the 2005 National Conference, a training meeting was held for the Individual Development Chairpersons from each State Federation and any members who were seeking certification to conduct the IDP course. The materials were shared with that group on a CD which we were all delighted to take home instead of a 3” binder containing the facilitator’s guides, participants guide and resource handouts.

In 2020, the NFBPWC Individual Development Committee accepted the challenge to update the 2008 program, developing PowerPoint slides for easier presentation and update the programs. Additionally, the program name was changed to Lifelong Leadership and Learning (L3) Program.

The L3 Committee continues to update the modules as necessary and expand the topics. Originally the program consisted of lessons in conducting meetings, parliamentary law, and club leadership.

Topics such as Teamwork, legislation, BPW History and Women’s History, Officers and Chairs leadership were added over the years. Lessons for public speaking, both prepared presentations and impromptu topics, were also added.

In 2005, topics including Business Etiquette, Advocacy, Writing your legislators, and media relations were added. The current program includes fifteen topics with more topics being added to include The Art of Networking, Leadership vs Management, Time Management, Project Management, and Stress Management-Self-care.

If you ask some of your more seasoned members, they will likely respond that the Individual Development Program is one of the best experiences they have had during their BPW membership. The goal of the current L3 Chair includes working with all of the NFBPWC committee chairs to hopefully incorporate L3 programming with that specific committee’s goals as well as creating any new modules that would be beneficial for members.

Please follow the activity of the L3 Committee on the NFBPWC website and in the NFBPWC magazine. Members are encouraged to work with their State Federation or Club leadership to ensure L3 activities are happening for their state/club membership.

You can direct questions to L3Chair@NFBPWC.org

“The beautiful thing about learning is that nobody can take it away from you” B.B. King

NICOLE MPOULI

LIFELONG LEADERSHIP & LEARNING COMMITTEE CHAIR

(2025-2026)

Legacy Fund

Kemi Oyebade — Fri, 01 Aug 2025 17:25:00 GMT

I asked Microsoft Copilot how to support Women’s Equality. This is what it stated:

Supporting women's equality in your community is both impactful and achievable through consistent, thoughtful actions. Here's a structured guide to help you get started:

Practical Ways to Support Women’s Equality Locally

Action How It Helps

Support Women-Owned Businesses Boosts local economies and empowers female entrepreneurs

Mentor or Sponsor Women Provides guidance, advocacy, and career development

Promote Equal Pay & Opportunities Advocates for fair compensation and workplace equity

Challenge Gender Stereotypes Breaks down limiting norms in schools, media, and daily life

Volunteer with Women-Focused Orgs Offers direct support to survivors, entrepreneurs, and students

Advocate for Inclusive Policies Drives systemic change through local legislation and community efforts

Educate Yourself & Others Builds awareness and fosters informed allyship

Create Safe Spaces Encourages open dialogue, healing, and empowerment

Celebrate Women’s Achievements Amplifies voices and shifts cultural narratives

Encourage Male Allyship Engages men and boys in promoting equality and dismantling bias

Quick Tips for Everyday Impact

• Read & Share: Books, articles, and media that highlight women’s stories and achievements

• Vote: Support candidates and policies that prioritize gender equality

• Speak Up: Challenge sexist remarks and advocate for respectful language

• Shop Smart: Choose brands and businesses that promote gender equity

• Reflect: Attend workshops to uncover and address unconscious bias

Start Small, Think Big

Even one action—mentoring a young woman, donating to a shelter, or attending a women’s empowerment event— can ripple outward. Empowerment begins with awareness and grows through community.

I couldn’t have stated it any clearer. We can’t give up and small efforts mean a lot! Cheers,

Interested members who would like to serve on the committee, please send an email to Deb Fischer, legacyfundchair@nfbpwc.org indicating contributions you can make to this committee.

DEB FISCHER

NFBPWC LEGACY FUND CHAIR

2024-2026

(720) 280-3513

Save the Date: 7th BPW Mediterranean Symposium Set for November 14-15, 2025

Kemi Oyebade — Fri, 01 Aug 2025 17:10:00 GMT

Save the Date: 7th BPW Mediterranean Symposium Set for November 14-15, 2025

BPW Cyprus has announced that the 7th BPW Mediterranean Symposium will take place in Nicosia, Cyprus on November 14–15, 2025. The two-day event will bring together leaders, changemakers, and advocates from across the Mediterranean to champion gender equality and inclusive leadership. Hosted by BPW Cyprus, the symposium is open to anyone committed to advancing these values. This year’s gathering promises powerful dialogue, meaningful connection, and shared purpose. Full agenda and registration details will be released soon.

Mark your calendar and join a growing movement shaping the future of leadership.

Health

Kemi Oyebade — Fri, 01 Aug 2025 17:00:00 GMT

Our health committee meetings are held on the 4th Mondays of the month unless there is a conflict or a holiday. Our next meeting with be August 25, 2025 at 8pm ET.

Notes from the Chair:

Hope you are doing well this summer by keeping cool and taking care of yourselves. The Health Committee has been busy with our project in connection with Houston Medical for the year. More details are mentioned below (which were also put into the reports to the Board of Directors las month). We are also planning an event scheduled (tentatively for September 20th) that will be done virtually on various health topics. Please keep an eye on more information through the next couple of weeks.

More Information on the Houston Medical Project:

Project Title: Collaboration Based on the Heart of a Woman Project

Brief Description: (what are you doing and what is the positive impact you anticipate for members and the organization?)

The committee decided that since we already help sponsor and have our name on the Heart of a Woman event (which we have done for the past several years) that it would be imperative for us to continue to connect with Houston Methodist Hospital and work in collaboration with them.

Our goal is to build on our shared commitment to advancing health equity, supporting underserved populations, and more. This could be done through various health and wellness initiatives, or educational outreach through articles and presentations. We hope it can open doors for greater potential in working together with each other and with a greater community.

Contact has already been established with the Health Committee Chair attending pre- and post-event follow-up meetings. A contact person has been established to ask any questions and foster more communication moving forward. The next formal communication with Houston Medical will be in August as they plan their next Heart of a Woman event. At that time, the Health Committee chair will attend and discuss the project as planned and presented in detail. This will include inviting them to our health event, being active in our meetings, contributing to our magazine or allowing us to publish any articles online. In addition, there will be discussion on bringing attendees and speakers to the Heart of a Woman event next February. A potential project could also be discussed at this time as well.

After the meeting in August, there should be a clearer idea of what projects we could work on together. Any suggestions or ideas from the board of directors or otherwise would be greatly appreciated.

Health Awareness Dates:

August is – Children's Eye Health & Safety Month; Children's Vision & Learning Month; National Minority Donor

Awareness Month; National Spinal Muscular Atrophy Awareness Month; National Traffic Awareness Month; National Wellness Month; Neurosurgery Outreach Month

Child Support Awareness Month - https://supportpay.com/child-support-awareness- month/

Happiness Happens Month -

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Secret_Society_of_Hap py_People

National Breastfeeding Month -

https://lllusa.org/celebrate-national-breastfeeding- month/

National Cheerleading Safety Month -

https://usacheer.org/safety/national-cheer-safety- month

National Immunization Awareness Month - https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/php/national- immunization-awareness-

month/index.html?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2 Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fvaccines%2Fevents%2Fniam%2Fi ndex.html

National Water Quality Month - https://nationalwaterqualitymonth.org/Psoriasis Action Month -https://www.psoriasis.org/advance/psoriasis-action- month-here/

How the Health Committee uses the SDGs:

SDG stands for Sustainable Development Goals.

Here is a little history from the official SDG UN webpage:

“The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, adopted by all United Nations Member States in 2015, provides a shared blueprint for peace and prosperity for people and the planet, now and into the future. At its heart are the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which are an urgent call for action by all countries - developed and developing - in a global

partnership. They recognize that ending poverty and other deprivations must go hand-in-hand with strategies that improve health and education, reduce inequality, and spur economic growth – all while tackling climate change and working to preserve our oceans and forests.

The SDGs build on decades of work by countries and the UN, including the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs”

Many organizations use these goals to help them focus on the goals of their respective organizations. In NFBPWC, each committee also has a focus as well. The SDG goals that the Health Committee follow are #3, #4, and #17.

In this section, we are going to focus on SDG #4 – Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all.

Here is the information graphic:

If you would like to know more about the SDGs.

Please see this link for more information: https://sdgs.un.org/goals

Other articles related to the theme of Women’s Equality:

Hundreds of thousands of children have type 1 diabetes. Now, there’s a Barbie who has it, too - https://www.cnn.com/2025/07/08/health/barbie- diabetes-doll-wellness

'I needed help with menacing thoughts about my son'

- https://tinyurl.com/52mn834k

This Menstrual Pad Doesn’t Just Collect Blood—It Analyzes It - https://tinyurl.com/4am2853t

Highlighting Women's Disability Figures in History - https://www.rcpd.msu.edu/news/ability-

blog/highlighting-womens-disability-figures-history

Healthy Thinking of the Month:

Understanding Narcissism: “I come first!” See the next page for the graphic.

We will meet on the 3rd or 4th Monday of the month unless there are any conflicts or holiday forthcoming. Next meeting is August 25, 2025.

Finance

Kemi Oyebade — Fri, 01 Aug 2025 16:55:00 GMT

The theme for this issue is Women’s Equality. One of the largest disparities between women and men is the amount of pay that they receive. Here are some reasons that women should be paid equally.

Women should make the same money as men for doing the same work because of basic principles of fairness, equality, and economic efficiency. Here's a breakdown:

1. Equal Pay for Equal Work

• If two people do the same job, with the same skills, experience, and performance, they should be paid the same—regardless of gender. Anything else is discrimination.

2. Human Rights & Legal Standards

• Equal pay is a human right. Many countries (like the U.S. under the Equal Pay Act and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act) have laws requiring gender pay equality.

3. Economic Benefits

• When women are paid fairly, they have more to spend and invest, which stimulates the economy. Families benefit too, especially in households where women are primary earners.

4. Workforce Morale & Retention

• Fair pay improves job satisfaction, reduces turnover, and builds a culture of trust. Unequal pay can lead to resentment, low morale, and higher recruitment costs.

5. Closing the Wage Gap Builds a Better Future

• The gender wage gap contributes to long-term financial inequality—affecting women’s retirement savings, access to capital, and generational wealth.

6. Bias, Not Merit, Causes Pay Gaps

• Studies consistently show that pay disparities often arise not from merit, but from systemic bias, undervaluation of work traditionally done by women, and fewer opportunities for advancement.

In short, fair pay is not just about justice—it’s about smart economics and a healthier society.

SANDY THOMPSON

NFBPWC FINANCE CHAIR

Digital Training

Kemi Oyebade — Fri, 01 Aug 2025 16:40:00 GMT

Digital Empowerment: Securing Innovation in Honor of Women’s Equality

I appreciate the profound power that digital innovation holds. Not only to transform industries but to amplify voices once marginalized or lost in the chorus.

This August, as we commemorate Women’s Equality Day and the landmark ratification of the 19th Amendment, it is fitting to consider how the digital world presents both extraordinary opportunity and new challenges for women everywhere.

The 19th Amendment secured women’s right to vote, an essential step toward inclusion and equity. Today, innovation and infrastructure (hallmarks of Sustainable Development Goal 9), enable our voices to rise globally

through digital platforms. However, with this reach comes the responsibility to safeguard our digital presence against ever evolving threats.

Digital security is foundational to building resilient industries and inclusive innovation ecosystems. Without it, our ability to connect, collaborate, and lead is at risk. Women entrepreneurs and professionals must champion strong cybersecurity practices – not only to protect their information (personal and professional) but to preserve the integrity of movements advancing gender equality and social progress.

Honoring the legacy of the 19th Amendment means embracing the digital age with vigilance and confidence. By securing our digital identities, we make our infrastructure(s) that support innovation and inclusion stronger.

What can you do?

- Implement strong passwords and multi-factor authentication to

protect key accounts

- Regularly update privacy settings and

perform security audits on digital tools and platforms.

- Promote awareness of cybersecurity’s role in fostering sustainable, innovative industries that empower women.

AUGUST CALL TO ACTION:

In tribute to Women’s Equality Day, commit this month to strengthening your digital security.

- Choose one critical account – email, business platform or cloud storage – and enhance its protections.

- Then share a message highlighting the vital role of innovation and infrastructure (SDG 9) in empowering women’s voices worldwide.

Together, we can safeguard the digital foundation of progress – ensuring that the legacy of women’s equality is carried forward into a future defined by innovation, security and inclusion.

Submitted by

Barbara Bozem

an President

NFBPWC 2024-2026

Bylaws and Resolutions

Kemi Oyebade — Fri, 01 Aug 2025 16:30:00 GMT

Connecting, Uniting, Igniting: The Role of Bylaws in Equality’s Evolution

Fellow BPW Members,

As Chair of Bylaws and Resolutions, I see firsthand how structure fuels progress. Our bylaws aren’t simply pages in a binder—they’re the pulse of our purpose, connecting local voices, aligning national commitments, and empowering global change.

Historically, women were bound by procedures they never wrote. Exclusion wasn’t accidental, it was codified. But when trailblazers like Susan B. Anthony and Mary Church Terrell learned the rules, they reshaped the game. They turned bylaws into blueprints for justice and procedure into pathways for participation.

Today, BPW continues that legacy. At the local level, we craft policies that welcome every member. Nationally, we uphold standards that ensure fairness and transparency. Globally, the structured approach sets a precedent for inclusion and leadership that crosses borders.

Every motion passed, every amendment proposed, is part of a greater momentum. We are not just refining language—we are redefining leadership. Our bylaws are the scaffolding beneath our slogan. They make it possible to connect deeply, unite purposefully, and ignite change far beyond our immediate reach.

As we move forward in this biennium, let’s remember structure amplifies spirit. And with each revision, we don’t just govern, we grow.

In sisterhood and strategy,

Angie Jackson-Wilson

NFBPWC Bylaws and Resolution Chair

2024-2026

Public Relations

Kemi Oyebade — Wed, 02 Jul 2025 17:35:00 GMT

Engage with NFBPWC on Social Media

Organization Page:

Group Page:

Organization Page:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2l_ciIxLyvbu1dbBOsV9Tg

YouTube:

Instagram:

https://www.dermascope.com/june-is-beautiful-in- your-skin-month/#.WSScdIWcHyQ

Magazine

Kemi Oyebade — Wed, 02 Jul 2025 17:30:00 GMT

Dear Friends and Members,

We’ve come a long way in NFBPWC in how we educate and get the word out to our members on the goings on politically locally, globally and internationally.

The PAST: Before coming on board as the Newsletter Chair for NFBPWC, I was the Communications Chair for BPW Colorado from June 2014 to July 2017. One of my responsibilities was to create newsletters for Colorado. I officially started as an NFBPWC Newsletter Chair in August of 2017 with the first edition being sent to our members in September of 2017. Elizabeth Benham was NFBPWC President at the time. Before that time, we did not have a national newsletter.

The PRESENT: Now, we have a jam-packed Magazine (not a newsletter) that is distributed to over 440 active members monthly. We have collaborated with the local State Affiliate President to update us on what is going on locally. And, we have news coming in from all of the world in our International Relations section.

The FUTURE: As I step down from my role as Magazine Editor (my last edition will be September), I hope that someone will be able to take up the mantle in sharing the valuable information to our membership. Is that someone you?

I thought I would share some images with you as to the progression of the NFBPWC Newsletter starting out as an 8-page newsletter (September 2017), to becoming a full-blown 50+ page Magazine. There have been many additional format changes and additions to the Magazine, including adding national, regional and international event links. And, offering advertising.

September 2017 – NFBPWC’s First Newsletter

November 2020 – Started adding a Cover Image

September 2021 – No Longer a Newsletter; Officially titled a Magazine

Michele Guarino
Magazine Editor
(2017-2025)

Lifelong Leadership & Learning (L3)

Kemi Oyebade — Wed, 02 Jul 2025 17:25:00 GMT

L3 Program – Reimagining Leadership

In a world marked by constant change and growing complexity, leadership can no longer be viewed as a fixed destination—it must be nurtured as a lifelong journey. It is with this vision in mind that we proudly announce the relaunch of our L3 Program: Lifelong Leadership & Learning.
The L3 was initially designed to equip women with the leadership tools, mindset, and community support necessary to thrive in every phase of life—personally, professionally, and civically. Now, as we relaunch and reimagine this transformative program, we are answering a new call: to build an intergenerational pipeline of resilient, purpose-driven, women leaders prepared to lead with clarity, courage, and authenticity.
What’s New in the Reimagined L3?

Updated Curriculum: We've refreshed the content with modern leadership themes such as emotional intelligence, digital transformation, inclusive leadership, Project Management Framework, Social Styles.

Modular Learning Format: Participants can engage with individual modules based on their interests and availability—building a personalized path toward leadership mastery.

Mentorship Across Generations: The new L3 fosters intentional intergenerational dialogue, connecting emerging leaders with seasoned professionals to foster growth.

Our Vision: Connect. Cultivate. Catalyze.

As Chair of the L3 Committee, I am both honored and excited to steward this program’s next chapter. Our goal is to connect women across backgrounds and borders, cultivate their leadership potential, and catalyze collective action for a more equitable And empowered future.

Whether you're a student finding your voice, a mid-career woman seeking renewal, or a seasoned changemaker ready to give back, L3 is for you.

Together, let us reignite the spark of leadership in every woman and ensure that lifelong leadership becomes not just an idea, but a lived reality.

For more information about the program, or how to get involved as a participant or facilitator, email l3chair@nfbpwc.org

Nicole Mpouli
Lifelong Leadership & Learning Committee Chair
(2025-2026)

Legacy Fund

Kemi Oyebade — Wed, 02 Jul 2025 17:20:00 GMT

An AI Overview

A century-old organization looking to remain relevant and successful in the modern world needs to make crucial changes to adapt to the evolving landscape. In essence, surviving for 100 years and beyond requires a delicate balance between preserving core values and strengths while continuously adapting to new challenges and opportunities. Organizations need to remain agile, customer-focused, and invest in their people and the technology that drives their business.

This is our challenge. So, with that in mind ~
Is your committee or affiliate in need of funding for a special event? Email me at legacyfundchair@nfbpwc.org and tell me what your needs are. The committee looks forward to supporting BPW activities.

The Legacy Fund Committee is a standing committee available to handle all incoming funds from heritage clubs. Members are Deb Fischer (chair), Barbara Bozeman, Ashley Maria, Jo Naylor, and Sandy Thompson.

Current Value of Investment Portfolio is $295,119.96 as of June 23, 2025.
The most recent meeting was held June 19th and there were two votes taken and unanimously approved.

1) $2,000 will be transferred to checking to cover expenses for the BPW European Regional Conference in May 2025

2) $10,000 will be transferred to checking to cover deposit requirements for the Biennial Convention scheduled for July 2026

Interested members who would like to serve on the committee, please send an email to Deb Fischer, legacyfundchair@nfbpwc.org indicating contributions you can make to this committee.

May love and friendship keep your days bright!

Deb Fischer
NFBPWC Legacy Fund Chair 2024-2026
(720) 280-3513

Health

Kemi Oyebade — Wed, 02 Jul 2025 17:00:00 GMT

Our health committee meetings are held on the 4th Mondays of the month unless there is a conflict or a holiday. Our next meeting with be July 28, 2025 at 8pm ET.

If you are a former member of the health committee or would like to find an area where you could be involved, please contact me at health@nfbpwc.org and I will put you on my list. The more you can contribute, the easier it makes it for me. I’d love to have you.

Notes from the Chair:
With the summer season upon us, it is best to remember to pace ourselves, especially in the oppressive weather. Please also make sure that your loved ones are ok, especially if they are your elders and even your pets this season. Please also be mindful of the sun and wear your sunscreen.

Health Awareness Dates:
July is –
Alopecia Month for Women; Bereaved Parents Awareness Month; Dry Eye Awareness Month; Fireworks Safety Month; Herbal/Prescription
Interaction Awareness Month; International Women with Alopecia Month; National Anti-Boredom Month; National HIV Awareness Month (Note: October is
AIDS Awareness Month also; National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month; National Parks & Recreation Month; National Roadside Traffic Safety Awareness Month; National Wheelchair
Beautification Month; Sandwich Generation Month; Sarcoma Awareness Month; Social Wellness Month; Worldwide Bereaved Parents Month

Eye Injury Prevention Month -
https://www.ishn.com/articles/93586-july-is-eye- injury-prevention-month

Fragile X Awareness Month - https://fragilex.org/get- involved/national-fragilex-awareness-month/

Hemochromatosis Screening Awareness Month - https://hemochromatosis.org/

International Group B Strep Awareness Month - https://www.thejessecause.org/pages/home.html

Juvenille Arthritis Awareness Month - https://www.personalizedcause.com/blog/juvenile- arthritis-awareness-month/

National Cleft & Craniofacial Awareness and Prevention Month - http://www.nccapm.org/
National Cord Blood Awareness Month - https://www.cordbloodbank.com/july-cord-blood- awareness-month/

Self Care Month -
https://fraserworks.ca/2016/07/self-care-july-is-self- care-month-and-july-24-2016-is-international-self- care-day/ (Note: It's also Sept. Different Sponsor)

Healthy Thinking of the Month:
This is stormy season, so to keep the stress down (which also relates to our health), the following information should be of help, and maybe give you ideas you have not thought about:

How the Health Committee uses the SDGs:
SDG stands for Sustainable Development Goals.
Here is a little history from the official SDG UN webpage:
“The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, adopted by all United Nations Member States in 2015, provides a shared blueprint for peace and prosperity for people and the planet, now and into the future. At its heart are the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which are an urgent call for action by all countries - developed and developing - in a global partnership. They recognize that ending poverty and other deprivations must go hand-in-hand with strategies that improve health and education, reduce inequality, and spur economic growth – all while tackling climate change and working to preserve our oceans and forests.

The SDGs build on decades of work by countries and the UN, including the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs” Many organizations use these goals to help them focus on the goals of their respective organizations. In NFBPWC, each committee also has a focus as well. The SDG goals that the Health Committee follow are #3, #4, and #17.

In this section, we are going to focus on SDG #3 – Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages.

See the information graphic to the right. If you would like to know more about the SDGs.

Please see this link for more information: https://sdgs.un.org/goals
Other articles related to the theme of past, present, and future:
Alzheimer’s blood test can spot people with early symptoms, study suggests - https://tinyurl.com/2kddtyep
Mental Health at College: What to Know - https://tinyurl.com/55neaf7r
Younger generations less likely to have dementia, study suggests - https://tinyurl.com/rypuvrks
Important Women's Health Screenings: A Guide by Age Group - https://tinyurl.com/6fd9x6ae
Senior Mental Health Survey: Anxiety and Depression in Americans Over 65 - https://tinyurl.com/yffc3tvt

If you are a former member of the health committee or would like to find an area where you could be involved, please contact me at health@nfbpwc.org and I will put you on my list. The more you can contribute, the easier it makes it for me. I’d love to have you. We will meet on the 3rd or 4th Monday of the month unless there are any conflicts or holiday forthcoming. Next meeting is July 28, 2025.

Finance

Kemi Oyebade — Wed, 02 Jul 2025 16:55:00 GMT

BPW was founded 106 years ago in St. Louis, Missouri. But did you know that the government was instrumental in helping to establish our organization? The War Department contributed $65,000 toward its founding. That is equivalent to about $1,207,816.47 today. Wouldn’t it be nice if we had that money today.

As you know we have the Legacy Fund. This is a fund to help support our organization beyond the dues that we collect. The fund is invested so that our money grows to be there for another 106 years. Have you ever wondered how you could honor or remember a member? One way would be to give a gift to the Legacy fund. When a member passes away or a member has an accomplishment that you would like to recognize, you could make a tax-deductible donation to the Legacy Fund.

This will help ensure that our organization continues to grow and lives on for another 100 plus years. We will then recognize that contribution to the person or family as well as in the magazine.

To donate go to our website and click on Who We Are. Then click on Donate to Empower Our Work. Then click on the Donation Form. Complete the form and you can pay by check or with credit card.

Sandy Thompson
NFBPWC Finance Chair

Digital Training

Kemi Oyebade — Wed, 02 Jul 2025 16:40:00 GMT

Bylaws and Resolutions

Kemi Oyebade — Wed, 02 Jul 2025 16:30:00 GMT

Honoring Our Foundation, Shaping Our Future

As we reflect on the past, present, and future of BPW, we are reminded that progress is not an accident—it is drafted, debated, voted on, and built into the framework of action. From the bold words of the Declaration of Sentiments in 1848, to the ratification of the 19th Amendment in 1920, to the establishment of National Business Women’s Week in 1938, women have long known that voice and vote are only powerful when supported by vision and structure. And that is exactly what Bylaws and Resolutions provide—a mechanism to transform ideas into action.

Our Past: Grounded in Courage and Clarity - The Declaration of Sentiments, drafted at the Seneca Falls Convention in 1848, was the first formal demand for women’s equality in the United States. Modeled after the Declaration of Independence, it boldly declared that “all men and women are created equal.” That document—radical at the time—outlined resolutions calling for women’s right to vote, to receive education, and to participate fully in society.

It would take 72 years of organizing before one of those resolutions—the 19th Amendment—was ratified, finally granting American women the right to vote in 1920. The years between were filled with conventions, declarations, and statements of purpose. We know from this that well-crafted words, backed by action, can change the world.

BPW itself was founded in the wake of that amendment, recognizing that political equality must be matched by economic opportunity. In 1938, thanks to the efforts of BPW’s early leaders, President Franklin D. Roosevelt issued the first Presidential Proclamation recognizing National Business Women’s Week. That milestone didn’t just celebrate women’s contributions to the workforce—it recognized the growing influence of organized, professional women.

Our Present: Keeping the Flame Alive - Today, our Bylaws and Resolutions Committee carries forward that legacy. Our current governing documents are more than internal tools they are the map that keeps us mission-focused, member-centered, and movement-driven. Each amendment, each clause, each resolution we consider is an opportunity to align our work with the evolving needs of our members and our world.

This year, we’ve focused on making our bylaws more accessible and responsive, while encouraging members to re-engage with the resolutions process. Whether you’re proposing a policy statement, updating language, or helping your local club stay compliant, you are part of a tradition of women who refused to stay silent.

Our Future: Built with Intention - As BPW evolves to meet the future, so must our framework. Our structure must support digital collaboration, intergenerational leadership, and international advocacy. Resolutions can be tools of both inspiration and influence—within our own communities and in global spaces like the United Nations and the Organization of American States.

We must ask: What issues define our time? What statements do we need to make? What systems will support our continued rise?

An Invitation to Engage - You don’t need to be a parliamentarian or policy expert to get involved—just bring your voice. If you’ve ever been inspired by a historical declaration or energized by a call to action, then you already understand the power of resolutions.
Let’s honor our foremothers—not just with ceremony, but with structure. Let’s ensure our bylaws reflect our bold future, and our resolutions capture the challenges and possibilities of today.

From Seneca Falls to your local club meeting, every motion matters.
Let’s write the future together.

Angie Jackson-Wilson
NFBPWC Bylaws and Resolution Chair
2024-2026

Health

Kemi Oyebade — Sun, 01 Jun 2025 17:00:00 GMT

Our health committee meetings are held on the 3rd Mondays of the month unless there is a conflict or a holiday. Our next meeting with be June 23, 2025 at 8pm ET. We are going to start thinking about a special Health Fair/Panel for this year. Please stay tuned for more information.

Notes from the Chair:

Thank you to those committee members who have been participating in our meetings. We will be changing our meeting week due to a conflict in schedule, which can sometimes happen. Thank you for your understanding and please check the events calendar for more information.

Healthy Thinking for the Month:

See the chart: 75 Things to Throw Away for Quick Decluttering.

Health Awareness Dates:

June is –

Cancer From the Sun Month; Cataract Awareness Month; Child Vision Awareness Month; Children's Awareness Month; Dairy Alternatives Month; Dementia Care Professionals Month; International Childhood Cancer Awareness Month; Men’s Health Education and Awareness Month; Migraine & Headache Awareness Month; National Aphasia Awareness Month; National Bathroom Reading Month; National Fruit and Veggies Month (Also September); National Safety Month; Pharmacists Declare War on Alcoholism Month; Professional Wellness Month; Rebuild Your Life Month; Sports America Kids Month; Student Safety Month; World Infertility Month

Alzheimer's and Brain Awareness Month - https://www.alz.org/abam/

Antiphospholipid Antibody Syndrome Awareness Month (APS) - https://apsfa.org/

Beautiful in Your Skin Month -

Hydranencephaly Awareness Month - https://pediatricbrainfoundation.org/archive/hydrane ncephaly-awareness-month/

National Congenital Cytomegalovirus Awareness Month - https://www.nationalcmv.org/

National Migraine and Headache Awareness Month - https://www.migraineheadacheawarenessmonth.org/mham-calendar/

National Scoliosis Awareness Month - https://www.scoliosis.org/scoliosis-awareness- month/

Oral Health Month (It's in April for Canada) - https://dentistry.uic.edu/news-stories/june-is-oral- health-month-prioritize-your-oral-health-today/

Potty Training Awareness Month - https://www.pull- ups.com/en-us/

PTSD Awareness Month - https://www.ptsd.va.gov/understand/awareness/inde x.asp

Scleroderma Awareness Month - https://scleroderma.org/

Vision Research Month - https://everharteyes.com/june.html

Article courtesy of Health Committee Member Marsha Riibner-Cady, North Carolina

June is national CPR and AED awareness month. Now is the perfect time to act and become trained to save a life.

What is CPR?

CPR stands for cardiopulmonary resuscitation. It can help save a life during cardiac arrest, when the heart stops beating or beating too ineffectively to circulate blood to the brain and other vital organs.

What is an AED?

An Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is a portable medical device used to analyze a person's heart rhythm and deliver an electrical shock to restore a normal heart rhythm, particularly in cases of sudden cardiac arrest. It's designed for use by laypeople and is often found in public places. While CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) is used to keep blood circulating, an AED is specifically designed to restart the heart.

Where can you find someone to train you in CPR and AED?

I’m happy to teach you CPR if you live in VA, WV, PA, NJ or KY! Contact me at info@cadycprsolutions.com

Or here is information on someone who might be closer to you!

The top 3 agencies that train folks in CPR and AED certification are:

the American Red Cross (ARC) https://www.redcross.org/
the American Heart association (AHA) https://www.heart.org/
and the Health and Safety Institute (HSI) https://hsi.com/

Each agency has a place on their website where you can find trainers in your area, or you may go to their website for virtual training. Again, shameless plug alert, I do CPR and First Aid training, check out my website at https://cadycprsolutions.com

To be certified in other words, be a card-carrying person who is trained, you will need to take a classroom part and hands-on skills session. The classroom part can be done online. In certain situations, the skills session can be done virtually, but the correct equipment must be available. Once completed the training “card” is valid for 2 years.

Training specifically for lay responders that are virtual from ARC and AHA are:

The American Red Cross program, “Until Help Arrives,” will educate and empower you to act and provide life-saving care when you are the first on the scene during an emergency. https://tinyurl.com/y4h56xuu

The American Heart Association program, “Friends and Family,” is for people who want to learn CPR but do not need a CPR course completion card to meet a job requirement. This course is ideal for community groups, new parents, grandparents, babysitters, and others interested in learning how to save a life.

https://tinyurl.com/2u9nzttb

Which training is best for you?

At a minimum, please go to the ARC or AHA online lay responder program so that you have a basic idea of how things work.

If you want to be certified and have hands on training, my recommendation is to go with the blended format for any of the agencies. The online classroom training is at your home on your computer or tablet at your pace. Then attend an in-person skills session with someone who provides hands on training and feedback with manikins and AED trainers.

How much will this cost?

That depends on the level of training you require, the agency you choose, and where you live. The going price in my area of WV is $55/person. I understand that some people charge up to $150/person or more. A fun club activity would be to get a group together with a trainer who is willing to give you a group rate.

If you have more questions, please reach out to me.

Marsha Riibner-Cady Cady CPR solutions

info@cadycprsolutions.com

252-423-0819

The photo below is from an event at the Girl Scout Council of the Colonial Coast. Marsha and the manikins.

Book FYI

(Thank you to Kathy Clevenger-Burdell for this idea)

Shortlisted for the Plutarch Award for Best Biography

A riveting history about the little-known rivalry between Margaret Sanger and Mary Ware Dennett that profoundly shaped reproductive rights in America

In the 1910s, as the birth control movement was born, two leaders emerged: Margaret Sanger and Mary Ware Dennett. While Sanger would go on to found Planned Parenthood, Dennett’s name has largely faded from public knowledge. Each held a radically different vision for what reproductive autonomy and birth control access should look like in America.

Few are aware of the fierce personal and political rivalry that played out between Sanger and Dennett over decades—a battle that had a profound impact on the lives of American women. Meticulously researched and vividly drawn, The Icon and the Idealist reveals how and why these two women came to activism, the origins of the clash between them, and the ways in which their missteps and breakthroughs have reverberated across American society for generations.

With deep archival scope and rigorous execution, Stephanie Gorton weaves together a personal narrative of two fascinating women and the political history of a country rocked by changing social norms, the Depression, and a fervor for eugenics. Refusing to shy away from

the enmeshed struggles of race, class, and gender, Gorton has made a sweeping examination of every force that has come in the way of women’s reproductive freedom.

Brimming with insight and compelling portraits of women’s struggles throughout the twentieth century, The Icon and the Idealist is a comprehensive history of a radical cultural movement.

If you are a former member of the health committee or would like to find an area where you could be involved, please contact me at health@nfbpwc.org and I will put you on my list. The more you can contribute, the easier it makes it for me. I’d love to have you. We will meet on the 3rd or 4th Monday of the month unless there are any conflicts or holiday forthcoming. Next meeting is May 19, 2025.

Finance

Kemi Oyebade — Sun, 01 Jun 2025 16:55:00 GMT

Did you know that we have pins and scarves that can be purchased for a donation?

Suggested Donation

$20

Suggested Donation

$10.00

Suggested Donation

$25.00

The donations include shipping, but we do ask for a minimum order of 5 items.

These items can be found on our website. Just go to Who We Are and scroll down to Donate to Empower our Work then go to Donation Gifts. You can find them all there. These are a great gift for a new member or to thank a member for their hard work.

The theme for this issue is recognizing the International Day of Women in Diplomacy. How does this relate to Finance? Women help to pass laws and policies. One of the crucial ways that is effects women is equal pay.

According to a February 2025 article from the National Women’s Law Center:

Based on today’s gender wage gap for full-time, year- round workers, women stand to lose $462,000 over the course of a 40-year career. For Black women, Latinas, Indigenous women, and Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander women, the losses are over $1 million over a lifetime. If we don’t act to close the wage gap, a woman just starting out today stands to lose hundreds of thousands of dollars over the course of her career, undercutting her ability to provide for herself and her family, as well as her retirement security.

This “lifetime wage gap” exists across the country: in every single state, career losses for women of all races working full time, year round compared to men of all races working full time, year round based on today’s wage gap would amount to hundreds of thousands of dollars — and in 14 states women’s career losses would amount to more than half a million dollars.

And many women of color living in certain states would lose the most. Compared to what white, non- Hispanic men working full time, year-round make, the lifetime wage gap would amount to more than $1 million for Asian women in two states, for Black women in 24 states, for Latinas in 40 states, for Indigenous women in 29 states, and for Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander women in 5 states.

If you would like to see a state by state comparison and based on race please visit their website at www.nwlc.org/resource/the-lifetime-wage-gap-state-by- state/.

Sandy Thompson
NFBPWC Finance Chair

Digital Training

Kemi Oyebade — Sun, 01 Jun 2025 16:40:00 GMT

Bylaws and Resolutions

Kemi Oyebade — Sun, 01 Jun 2025 16:30:00 GMT

Angie Jackson-Wilson
NFBPWC Bylaws and Resolution Chair
2024-2026

Public Relations

Kemi Oyebade — Sun, 01 Jun 2025 16:25:00 GMT

Engage with NFBPWC on Social Media

Organization Page:

Group Page:

Organization Page:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2l_ciIxLyvbu1dbBOsV9Tg

YouTube:

Instagram:

Public Relations

Kemi Oyebade — Thu, 01 May 2025 17:25:00 GMT

Engage with NFBPWC on Social Media

Organization Page:

Group Page:

Organization Page:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2l_ciIxLyvbu1dbBOsV9Tg

YouTube:

Instagram:

https://www.asha.org/national-speech-language-hearing-month/

Nominations

Kemi Oyebade — Thu, 01 May 2025 17:20:00 GMT

The High Stakes of Succession Planning: Why Leadership Continuity Matters

Succession planning isn’t just a formal process—it’s a necessity for the stability and longevity of any organization. When we neglect this vital strategy, we risk leadership gaps, loss of institutional knowledge, and disruptions that can hinder growth. The consequences of failing at succession planning can be severe, but understanding the steps to get it right ensures a seamless transition.

The Risks of Neglecting Succession Planning

Without a clear plan for leadership continuity, organizations may experience:

Operational disruptions – When key leaders suddenly depart, teams may struggle with direction and decision-making.
Loss of expertise – Years of experience and knowledge can walk out the door, leaving a void that takes time to fill.
Damaged reputation – Frequent leadership turnover may create instability, lowering confidence among employees and stakeholders.

Key Strategies for Effective Succession Planning

To ensure leadership continuity and avoid pitfalls, organizations should adopt the following strategies:
Start Early & Develop a Pipeline – Succession planning should be a continuous process, not a last-minute scramble. Identifying and nurturing future leaders early allows for a smoother transition.
Define Leadership Competencies – Understanding the qualities and skills necessary for leadership roles helps guide the selection and training of successors.
Invest in Professional Development– Provide mentorship, leadership training, and hands- on experience to prepare future leaders before they assume critical roles.

Create a Transparent Process – Clear communication ensures employees understand career growth opportunities, fostering engagement and retention.
Prepare for Unexpected Departures – Life is unpredictable. Having contingency plans in place ensures organizations remain stable despite sudden leadership changes.
Leadership transitions don’t have to be chaotic. With proactive succession planning, organizations can preserve continuity, maintain their competitive edge, and build a future-ready workforce. Prioritizing these critical steps will ensure leadership isn’t just a role—it’s a legacy.

Again, I ask you to look inside your local organization and identify individuals that can assume the mantle of leadership and nominate them.

Angie Jackson-Wilson
NFBPWC Nominations Chair
2024-2026

Health

Kemi Oyebade — Thu, 01 May 2025 17:00:00 GMT

Our health committee meetings are held on the 3rd Mondays of the month unless there is a conflict or a holiday. Our next meeting with be May 19, 2025 at 8pm ET. We are going to start thinking about a special Health Fair/Panel for this year. Please stay tuned for more information.

Notes from the Chair:

The Health Committee is doing a lot of brainstorming on our article section, a future project for the year, and more. Even with the small number of attendees at meetings (and the make-up is always different) good ideas flow. I always appreciate how productive our meetings are, and I cannot wait for what we have planned for the rest of the year.

Healthy Thinking for the Month:

"Negativity is contagious but so is positivity; desperation is contagious but so is joy: do not follow negative people but continue to radiate light and hope around you! And know that hope doesn’t disappoint, it never deludes!" (June 2014) – Pope Francis December 17, 1936 – April 21, 2025)

Health Awareness Dates:

May is –

Asthma Awareness Month; Awareness of Medical Orphans Month; Clap 4 Health Month; Clean Air Month; Family Wellness Month; Fibromyalgia Education and Awareness Month; Food Allergy Action Month; Global Employee Health and Fitness Month; Global Health and Fitness Month; Global Youth Traffic Safety Month; Heal the Children Month; Healthy Vision Month; Huntington's Disease Awareness Month; Inherited Retinal Disease (IRD) Genetic Testing Month; International Mediterranean Diet Month; Melanoma/Skin Cancer Detection & Prevention Month; Mental Health Month; National Arthritis Awareness Month; National Hepatitis Awareness Month; National High Potassium Awareness Month; National Meditation Month; National Mental Health Month; National Osteoporosis Awareness & Prevention Month; National Physical Fitness & Sports Month; National Stop The Bleed Month; National Stroke Awareness Month; Necrotizing Fasciitis Awareness Month; Older Americans Month; Oncology Nurses Month Link; Prader-Willi Syndrome Awareness Month; Save Your Tooth Month; Strike Out Strokes Month; Tay-Sachs and Canavan Diseases Month; Trauma Awareness Month; Ultra-violet Awareness Month; Women's Health Care Month

ALS Awareness Month - (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis or Lou Gehrig's Disease) - https://www.als.org/awareness

Apraxia Awareness Month -https://www.apraxia-kids.org/awareness/

Better Hearing & Speech Month -

Better Sleep Month -https://www.sleepfoundation.org/

Bladder Cancer Awareness Month -https://www.urologyhealth.org/media-center/press-releases/may-is-bladder-cancer-awareness-month

Borderline Personality Disorder Month -https://www.borderlinepersonalitydisorder.org/may-bpd-awareness-month/

Brain Tumor Awareness Month -https://braintumor.org/

Building Safety Month -

https://www.iccsafe.org/advocacy/building-safety-month/building-safety-month/

Celiac Awareness Month -https://celiac.org/schar/

Cystic Fibrosis Awareness Month -https://www.cff.org/intro-cf/cf-awareness-month

EDS (Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome) Awareness Month -https://www.ehlers-danlos.com/may-awareness/

Lupus Awareness Month -

https://www.lupus.org/lupus-awareness-month

Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month -https://www.nhtsa.gov/road-safety/motorcycles

National Allergy/Asthma Awareness Month -https://aafa.org/get-involved/asthma-and-allergy-awareness-month/

National Better Hearing Month -

https://www.asha.org/national-speech-language-hearing-month/

National Brain Tumor Awareness Month -https://braintumor.org/events/brain-tumor-awareness-month/

National Electrical Safety Month -https://www.esfi.org/national-electrical-safety-month-2022/

National High Blood Pressure Education Month -https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/65/wr/mm6520a5.htm

(World) Lyme Disease Awareness Month -https://www.lymedisease.org/get-involved/take-action/lyme-awareness-month/

National Mediterranean Diet Month -https://tinyurl.com/mpy92c32

National Physiotherapy Month -https://opa.on.ca/recent-news/national-physiotherapy-month/

National Syringomyelia Awareness Month -https://justfacts.votesmart.org/public-statement/973471/national-syringomyelia-awareness-month#.V9iF0uRTHyQ

National Tuberous Sclerosis Month -https://www.tscalliance.org/

National Water Safety Month -http://www.nationalwatersafetymonth.org/

National Youth Traffic Safety Month -

https://teenslearntodrive.com/youth-traffic-safety-month/

Neurofibromatosis Awareness Month (aka NF Month)

-https://www.ctf.org/makenfvisible/

Pediatric Feeding Disorder Awareness Month -https://www.feedingmatters.org/pfd-awareness-month/

Pediatric Stroke Awareness Month -

https://chasa.org/you-can-help/pediatric-stroke-awareness/

Preeclampsia Awareness Month -https://www.preeclampsia.org/

Skin Cancer Awareness Month -https://www.skincancer.org/get-involved/skin-cancer-awareness-month/

Sturge-Weber Awareness Month -https://sturge-weber.org/

Tourette’s Syndrome Awareness Month (5/15 - 6/15) -https://tourette.org/awareness-month-2024/

Toxic Encephalopathy and Chemical Injury Awareness Month -

https://www.brownielocks.com/may.html

If you are a former member of the health committee or would like to find an area where you could be involved, please contact me at health@nfbpwc.org and I will put

Healthy Foods Information –

you on my list. The more you can contribute, the easier it makes it for me. I’d love to have you.

12 Foods That Can Help Lower Blood Pressure -https://tinyurl.com/ycxbwxn421 Impressive Health Benefits and Uses of Parsley -

https://www.medicinenet.com/21_impressive_health_benefits_and_uses_of_parsley/article.htm

If you would like to submit a healthy recipe to publish in future newsletters or have your own health food tip, please send them to health@nfbpwc.org

Article courtesy of Health Committee Member Carolina Vasquez, BPW, Texas Affiliate

Advice to Take Care of an Aging Parent While Guarding Your Health as Well

To my fellow BPW members:

Blessings from El Paso, Texas from a member of BPW Paso del Norte border town with Mexico.

Last year I had to say goodbye to my mother after taking care of her for the last 10 years of her life due to her Dementia.

I want to share my journey with you because I want to help anyone in my position to navigate this family

journey so that you do not fall into the depression I experienced when my mom went to heaven.

After living a wonderful life which culminated with a 20-year job with the US Department of State as a Cultural Liaison for International Visitors and

crisscrossing our Country Several times a month (I got to visit 48 states excluding Hawaii and Maine) I made the decision to resign and concentrate on being my mom’s caretaker until she passed away.

I had no idea what I was going to encounter but did it out of love and respect for my mom, a woman I adored and respected. I knew she was very difficult to please and realizing the horrible effects of Dementia, I did not want her to encounter hostility or uncomfortable circumstances that would make her last years of life unbearable I never realized the shortcomings that my decision was going to have in my life. I recommend that as a loving daughter, you explore all venues to make your parents have a peaceful end to life. However, please do not immerse yourself 100% in your role as a caretaker but make provisions so that you also have a social life along with your duties as a caretaker.

I was caught inside the covid epidemic and moved to a little town outside El Paso that permitted me to protect mom in a safe environment, a gated home where she could walk and take care of her birds and plants. This was a wonderful benefit because she could be outside or inside if I was watching her. Of course, things happened and at one point she could no longer roam unattended, so my duties became very stressful.

Dementia has a way of little by little destroying the person that your parent was and living you with a human being that slowly stops recognizing you and even ends up turning hostile to your company, One has to understand that this is normal and not take anything they say or do at heart, because they are no longer the parent you knew and loved. At this time of your journey, I suggest you find a place where you can monitor them but no longer be 100% at their side.

This will destroy you and you need to be strong to help them transition to a peaceful last journey. You cannot be at their side 24 hours a day. You need to have a life as well aways from your duty as a caretaker. I did not do this, so I ended up facing a total mental degradation feeling helpless and alone.

Don’t fall into that trap. They are at the end of their journey, but you are not, so keep on living while you take care of your sick parents. Do not feel guilty, they would want you to be happy if they still could take care of you, I can guarantee you.

During this time, try to find out all you can about your parents, learn what they liked in their lives, what their dreams were, their likes and dislikes, their triumphs and their shortcomings. All this will comfort you

Health Article FYI

Mind-wandering could actually be helpful when it comes to learning something new -https://tinyurl.com/mryr279z

7 Foods and Beverages That Have the Most Microplastics (and What to Eat Instead) -

https://www.superage.com/articles/7-foods-and-

When they leave this earth, and you will be able to remember them with love and respect.

This is a short recommendation given to you as a person that almost committed suicide feeling so helpless and alone, I isolated myself without realizing that I was hurting myself in the process.

beverages-that-have-the-most-microplastics-and- what-to-eat-instead

Ilona Maher Is Bringing Body Positivity Back -https://verilymag.com/2025/03/ilona-maher-is-bringing-body-positivity-back-2025?mc_cid=b4e813c64e&mc_eid=f7047d46e4

Finance

Kemi Oyebade — Thu, 01 May 2025 16:55:00 GMT

One of my duties as Finance Chair is to serve as a member of the Legacy Fund Committee. We have invested our money with Edward Jones Investments. They have been in business since 1922. Just like BPW they began in St. Louis, Missouri.

I would like to introduce to you our Financial Advisor – Debi Vasquez.

Debi was recently named to the Forbes 2025 ranking of Top Women Wealth Advisors Best-in-State in California.

To compile the 2025 list of women named to these rankings, SHOOK®

Research analysts conducted individual interviews with nominees. Criteria that determined the final list included industry experience, best practices, compliance records and assets under care.

Debi began her Edward Jones career in 1995 as a financial advisor in Sherman Oaks and became a limited partner with the firm in 2006.

With over three decades of experience as a financial advisor, she has built a successful practice through a time-tested, client-first strategy. The three cornerstones of discipline that she leverages in her practice are transparency, tenacity and tenure.

Fostering a strong conviction for customized financial strategies, investment counseling and relationship management, she is a financial advocate for her clients and aspires to empower women on the importance of financial literacy. She also has enjoyed being able to help create, build and deploy her clients' financial dreams.

Her practice focuses on helping small business owners optimize their retirement plans working in partnership with their CPAs, TPAs and estate planning attorneys.

Her team is dedicated to providing highly personalized service. All aspects of her business are aligned to help her understand better what is important to her clients’ unique goals and needs so that she can make a positive impact on their lives.

She became an Edward Jones financial advisor to make a positive difference in people's lives. These days, she is inspired by the celebrations she shares with all her clients when they have met their goals.

Sandy Thompson
NFBPWC Finance Chair

Digital Training

Kemi Oyebade — Thu, 01 May 2025 16:40:00 GMT

Bylaws and Resolutions

Kemi Oyebade — Thu, 01 May 2025 16:30:00 GMT

Bylaws, policies, and procedures all play a role in governing organizations, but they serve different purposes: Each of these elements plays a crucial role in maintaining structure, consistency, and accountability within an organization.

Bylaws: These are the foundational rules that define how an organization operates. They typically cover governance structure, board responsibilities, membership rules, voting procedures, and amendment processes. Bylaws are often legally required and must be formally adopted and amended.
Policies: These are guidelines that help an organization make consistent decisions. Policies address areas like financial management, employee conduct, conflict resolution, and operational standards. Unlike bylaws, policies can be updated more easily by leadership without requiring formal approval from members.
Procedures: These are step-by-step instructions on how to carry out specific tasks within an organization. Procedures ensure consistency in operations, such as how financial transactions are processed and how meetings are conducted.

Angie Jackson-Wilson
NFBPWC Bylaws and Resolution Chair
2024-2026

Public Relations

Kemi Oyebade — Tue, 01 Apr 2025 17:55:00 GMT

Engage with NFBPWC on Social Media

Organization Page:

Group Page:

Organization Page:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2l_ciIxLyvbu1dbBOsV9Tg

YouTube:

Instagram:

https://www.autismspeaks.org/world-autism-month

Nominations

Kemi Oyebade — Tue, 01 Apr 2025 17:50:00 GMT

We are inviting passionate members of the BPW Federation to consider taking on leadership roles. Our mission is to empower women and make a significant impact through our collective efforts. By joining forces with the chairs of other committees, we aim to showcase the impact of our Federation and its mission.

Leadership comes with its challenges, but building a strong team rooted in our mission will ensure the smooth functioning of the Federation. We are looking forward with great enthusiasm to having a selection of candidates from around the country.

Which of these offices will have your name placed in nomination?

For the Office of President?
For the Office of Vice President-Membership?
For the Office of Vice President-Advocacy?

For the Office of Secretary?
For the Office of Treasurer?
For the Office of Young BPW?

The nominating committee will confirm that all candidates meet the qualifications as outlined in Article X, Section 7 of the bylaws.

It is not too early to begin the process!

Angie Jackson-Wilson
NFBPWC Nominations Chair
2024-2026

Magazine

Kemi Oyebade — Tue, 01 Apr 2025 17:45:00 GMT

Dear Members, I do not tend to write articles for the magazine, as I usually stay behind the scenes. Since we do not have a club in the State of Maine, I thought some of you might be interested to know that Maine has declared March 25th National Equal Pay Day. Yay, Maine!

Here is the Press Release I received from the Maine Department of Labor.

For Immediate Release: March 25, 2025

Governor Mills Proclaims March 25 National Equal Pay Day in Maine

According to the United States Census Bureau, the difference between median earnings for men and women in Maine who worked full-time, year-round in 2023 was nearly $9,000.

MAINE - Governor Janet Mills has proclaimed March 25, 2025 National Equal Pay Day in Maine, symbolizing how far into the year women in the United States must have worked to earn what men had earned by December 31, 2024. Nationally, women aged 16 and

over who are working full-time, year-round are on average paid just 82 cents for every dollar paid to men. The wage gap is even more pronounced for women of color. Nationally in 2023, African American women made 65 cents on the dollar, and Hispanic or Latina women just 58 cents on the dollar compared to white, non-Hispanic men.

“Maine people know an honest day’s work deserves an honest day’s pay,” said Governor Janet Mills. “I’ve proclaimed today as National Equal Pay Day in Maine to remind us all there’s more to do to ensure Maine women receive equal pay for equal work.”

Requirements regarding equal pay have been a part of Maine law since 1949, but wage inequality persists. To promote pay equality, Governor Mills signed legislation in 2019 to discourage employers from basing wages on an employee's salary history.

“The wage gap remains a reality we must contend with. Data shows that men who worked full-time, year- round earned nearly $9,000 more than women—and the gap is even wider for women of color,” said Labor Commissioner Laura Fortman. “Ensuring equal pay and access to good-paying jobs is not just about fairness - it strengthens families, reduces poverty, and drives economic growth. Maine is committed to raising aspirations and opening doors to high-wage careers. Programs like our pre-apprenticeship and apprenticeship initiatives in construction are creating clear pathways for women to enter and thrive in these industries, ensuring that anyone with the skills and drive to succeed has the opportunity to do so.”

According to the United States Census Bureau, the difference between median earnings for men and women in Maine who worked full-time, year-round in 2023 was $8,900. Men earned a median of $61,300, while women earned $52,400.

Nationally in 2023, the average differences in median earnings between white, non-Hispanic or Latino men and women of color are $30,100 for American Indian and Alaska Native women, $25,200 for Black or African American women, and $1,600 for Asian women.

According to the 2019-2023 American Community Survey 5-year Estimates, the five occupational groups in Maine with the largest wage gaps are legal occupations; health diagnosing and treating practitioners; sales and related occupations; production occupations; and building and grounds cleaning and maintenance occupations.

"The gender wage gap is not about individuals, it's about systems: 'women's work' (traditional roles such as care and caregiving) pays less, and women earn less over a lifetime because of their unpaid caregiving roles,” said Destie Hohman Sprague, Executive Director of the Maine Women's Lobby. “Systems are solved with policies, and Maine policymakers have an opportunity to address this gap once by supporting bills that address pay transparency and workforce segregation. They also must continue to build the caregiving structures, such as paid family and medical leave, childcare, and direct care, which supports pay equity over the long term."

"Equal Pay Day is an important marker of how far into each new year the average woman must work in order for her earnings to catch up to what the average man

had earned by the end of the previous year. At the same time, it's important to remember that the pay gap for women varies by demographic, so for moms Equal Pay Day is May 6, for African women it’s on July 10, for Latina women it’s October 8 and for Native American women it's all the way to November 18," said Cynthia Phinney, President of the AFL-CIO. " Paying attention to these numbers and these gaps matters in the work to build an economy that allows everyone to flourish by removing barriers to economic security. The best way to close the pay gap and fight wage discrimination is with a union contract, so on Equal Pay Day we also affirm our resolve to ensure all women regardless of race or national origin have the right to join a union, free from coercion and intimidation.”

"Women of every race and background work hard to keep Maine families, businesses, and services running. Their work has equal value, but women, especially Latina, Black, and Indigenous women, aren't compensated at rates equal to men," said Ariel Ricci, Executive Director of the Permanent Commission on the Status of Racial, Indigenous, and Tribal Populations. "Everyone does better when women of all races and ethnicities get paid what their work is truly worth."

"Equal Pay Day highlights the ongoing struggle to appropriately value and support the work of Maine women - and the full Equal Pay Day calendar shows how the burden of the wage gap falls disproportionately on mothers, women of color, disabled women, and the LGBTQ+ community," said Elinor Higgins, Executive Director of Maine’s Permanent Commission on the Status of Women (MePCSW). "But Equal Pay Day also shows the path forward toward a stronger economic future for Maine: by closing the wage gap, we can improve economic security for Maine women and their families."

In 2024, MePCSW released a report on Maine women's labor, employment, and economic security which illustrates how the wage gap drives financial disparities across the lifespan, with part-time, low- wage work and lacking care infrastructure leading to higher rates of financial hardship among women in Maine.

Maine's Equal Pay Law requires that employees be paid the same wages as employees of the opposite sex for work that is of a comparable nature in skill, effort, and responsibility.

MDOL's Bureau of Labor Standards, who enforces the Equal Pay Law in Maine, has a poster available for employers free of charge that outlines the basics of the law:

An employer may not discriminate between employees in the same establishment on the basis of sex by paying wages to any employee at a rate less than the rate at which the employer pays any employee of the opposite sex for comparable work on jobs that have comparable requirements relating to skill, effort and responsibility.
An employer may not prohibit employees from discussing their wages with coworkers.

Anyone who believes they are not being paid the same wages as an employee of the opposite sex for comparable work, should file an equal pay complaint. The Maine Department of Labor has a printable equal pay complaint form here: https://www.maine.gov/labor/labor_laws/publication s/epcomplaintform.pdf

A mailed or emailed complaint form can be requested by contacting the Wage and Hour Division at 207-623- 7900 or mdol@maine.gov.

Michele Guarino
Magazine Editor
(2017-2026)

Legacy Fund

Kemi Oyebade — Tue, 01 Apr 2025 17:40:00 GMT

Is your committee or affiliate in need of funding for a special event?

Email me at legacyfundchair@nfbpwc.org and tell me what your needs are. The committee looks forward to supporting BPW activities.

The Legacy Fund Committee is a standing committee available to handle all incoming funds from heritage clubs. Members are Deb Fischer (chair), Barbara Bozeman, Ashley Maria, Jo Naylor, and Sandy Thompson.

Current Value of Investment Portfolio is $289,803.28 as of February 28, 2025.

Interested members who would like to serve on the committee, please send an email to Deb Fischer, legacyfundchair@nfbpwc.org indicating contributions you can make to this committee.

May love and friendship keep your days bright!

Deb Fischer
NFBPWC Legacy Fund Chair
2024-2026
(720) 280-3513

International Relations - Bridging the Global Divide: A Call to Action for BPW Sisters

Kemi Oyebade — Tue, 01 Apr 2025 17:15:00 GMT

Bridging the Global Divide: A Call to Action for BPW Sisters

In an era when political divisions and distancing at the highest levels of governance increasingly leave us on the periphery of global decision-making, the responsibility to shape the future of international collaboration falls squarely on our shoulders. As BPW sisters around the world, we possess a unique power: the ability to foster a culture of soft diplomacy where business and global cooperation transcend partisan politics.

The current geopolitical climate has led to a widening gap between decision-makers and the global community. While our traditional diplomatic channels may seem to have retreated into insular, nationalistic confines, the need for an alternative, inclusive approach has never been greater. The BPW network stands as a beacon of progressive leadership, one that values collaboration over division, and innovation over stagnation. By stepping into this leadership void, we are not merely filling a gap—we are redefining the very framework of global engagement.

The core of our mission is to ensure that business remains a realm where the focus is on progress, sustainability, and shared prosperity. Global commerce must be viewed as an arena where the best ideas flourish irrespective of political affiliation. In practical terms, this means advocating for policies and practices that prioritize economic growth, environmental stewardship, and social responsibility. It also requires us to challenge the notion that political differences should hinder our pursuit of mutually beneficial partnerships.

By consistently demonstrating that collaboration and cooperation are not only possible but essential, BPW can establish new paradigms in international business relations. Our collective experience and influence enable us to act as neutral intermediaries— facilitators who can connect leaders, industries, and communities across borders, inspiring a global dialogue that transcends political ideologies.

Inaction in the face of growing political polarization is not a neutral stance—it is complicity. To allow decisions to be made for us without our active participation is to forfeit the opportunity to steer the course of history. We must acknowledge that our silence can inadvertently endorse the status quo, one where vital policies and partnerships are shaped in closed rooms without our input. Instead, by asserting our voice and presence, we can help guide international efforts toward outcomes that benefit not just a few, but the global community at large.

Charting a Path Forward

To reclaim our role as stewards of global progress, it is crucial that we:

Embrace Active Engagement: Proactively seek partnerships and dialogues that encourage transparency and mutual respect among nations.
Champion Non-Partisan Collaboration: Lead by example in demonstrating that business and global initiatives can thrive when decisions are based on shared interests rather than political agendas.
Invest in Soft Diplomacy: Leverage our networks to create forums and initiatives that bring together diverse voices, fostering an environment where ideas are exchanged freely and without bias.
Advocate for Women's Rights: Commit to the promotion and protection of women's rights at all levels—nationally, internationally, and within every significant multilateral organization— ensuring that women's voices are central to shaping policies and decisions for a progressive future.

Meaningful Twinning Between BPW Clubs

A particularly potent strategy lies in the deliberate and impactful twinning of BPW clubs across borders. By pairing clubs and fostering close relationships, we can:

Collaborate on Projects: Work together on initiatives that accelerate opportunities for women in business, ensuring that underserved women have access to the resources and networks necessary to succeed.
Drive Policy Change: Develop joint advocacy strategies to promote policies that empower women to found, foster, and lead businesses into the future.
Support At-Risk Sisters: Extend solidarity and tangible support to our sisters facing geopolitical strife. This includes those in Ukraine, Afghanistan, Africa, and even in the most developed nations where recent political trends have eroded rights, liberties, and freedoms. By aligning our efforts, we can ensure that their voices are amplified and their perspectives are recognized as integral to the global narrative.
Exchange Best Practices: Share strategies and lessons learned that can help clubs navigate challenges unique to their regions while contributing to a global repository of knowledge and innovation.

In creating these meaningful twinning partnerships, BPW clubs become more than isolated entities; they transform into a cohesive, agile network capable of spearheading a movement that transcends borders and political divides. This dynamic collaboration not only bridges current gaps in international leadership but also sets a sustainable model for how global business can be both inclusive and progressive.

The call to action is clear: it is time for BPW sisters to rise to the challenge. As global leaders, we must take up the mantle of bridging divides and shaping a future where global business and diplomacy are defined by unity, rather than fragmentation. Our collective influence is a formidable tool—one that can usher in an era of renewed international engagement, driven by the values of inclusivity, collaboration, and innovation. The choice is ours: to lead or to be led. In this critical moment, let us choose to lead.

Larisa B. Miller NFBPWC International Relations Chair 2024-2026 BPW Galway, Ireland international@nfbpwc.org

Health

Kemi Oyebade — Tue, 01 Apr 2025 17:10:00 GMT

Our health committee meetings are held on the 3rd Mondays of the month unless there is a conflict or a holiday. Our next meeting with be April 21, 2025 at 8pm ET. We are going to start thinking about a special Health Fair/Panel for this year. Please stay tuned for more information.

Notes from the Chair:

April is my birthday month which is why I am happy to share my Lipedema story with you. In addition, there are tons of facts and information for you to educate yourself on various health related topics and articles. Please feel free to email me any interesting information you think should be shared for this section.

Healthy Thinking for the Month:

It’s Spring, which means it’s time for Spring cleaning. This is a great time to look at the things you’ve gathered, not used or don’t need anymore. You can donate, sell, or whatever you are comfortable with, old things. It’s a great way to release weighted energy and free yourself symbolically of burdens.

Health Awareness Dates:

April is –

Alcohol Awareness Month; Amateur Radio Month; Child Abuse Prevention Month; (International) Cesarean Awareness Month; Defeat Diabetes Month; Fresh Florida Tomatoes Month; Medical Cannabis Education and Awareness Month; Move More in April; National 9-1-1 Education Month; National African American Women's Fitness Month; National Cancer Control Month; National Child Abuse Prevention Month; National Exchange Club - Child Abuse Prevention Month; National Donate Life Month; National Occupational Therapy Month; Nationally Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) Month; National Youth Sports Safety Month; Oral Cancer Awareness Month; Pharmacists War on Diabetes Month; Pet First Aid Awareness Month; Physical Wellness Month; Rosacea Awareness Month; Soy Foods Month; Testicular Cancer Awareness Month; Women's Eye Health & Safety Month; Workplace Conflict Awareness Month.

Autism Acceptance Month - https://www.govinfo.gov/features/autism-acceptance-month

Autism Awareness Month Link -

Health Awareness Dates:

April is –

Autism Acceptance Month - https://www.govinfo.gov/features/autism-acceptance-month

Autism Awareness Month Link -

https://www.autismspeaks.org/world-autism-month

National Parkinson's Awareness Month https://www.parkinson.org/parkinsons-awareness-month

National Sarcoidosis Awareness Month - http://nationalsarcoidosisfriends.org.tripod.com/ind ex.html

National Sexual Assault Awareness & Prevention Month (SAAM) - https://www.nsvrc.org/

National Toddler Immunization Month - https://www.nfid.org/national-immunization-awareness-month-resource-round-up/

Prevent Lyme in Dogs Month - https://www.avma.org/javma-news/2008-04-15/april-prevent-lyme-dogs-month

Sjogren's Awareness Month - https://www.beyondceliac.org/celiac-news/sjogrens-awareness-month/

Stress Awareness Month - https://stressawarenessmonth.com/

World Autism Awareness Month -

https://www.autism.org.uk/what-we-do/acceptance-and-awareness/world-autism-acceptance-month

Healthy Recipes –

If you would like to submit a healthy recipe to publish in future newsletters, please send them to health@nfbpwc.org

Article courtesy of Health Committee Chair Susan E. Oser

What is Lymphedema and How it Affects Me

In June of 2024, I was finally able to go to see a doctor, not only to get a physical, but also to figure out what else was going on with my body. Of course I was overdue for a physical, but I had other things going on with me that I needed to get a diagnosis for. My legs were swollen, it was difficult to walk sometimes, and my energy was low.

When I went for my visit to talk to my doctor, he did my blood tests and other assessments, and it was determined I do indeed have Lymphedema.

What is Lymphedema?

This is the Mayo Clinic’s Definition: “Lymphedema is a condition that occurs when the lymph vessels are unable to adequately drain lymph fluid, typically affecting an arm or leg. Common causes include cancer, where tumors may block lymph vessels, leading to swelling. Treatment often involves a combination of physical therapy, compression garments, and bandaging to help move fluid from affected areas. It's important to manage lymphedema to prevent complications such as skin infections. While there is no cure, decongestive therapy can help control the condition.”

In my case, I’m at about a stage 2 and compared to other stories I’ve heard, I’ve been lucky to have caught it so early and take care of it. I first started physical therapy with a specialist in this area twice a week, started wearing bandages and did exercises to help with the swelling. To say that this wore me out was an understatement, but I have been lucky enough to graduate to compression socks (which are still a bit of a hassle sometimes).

Since there is no cure, I have been doing the best I can by keeping it at bay by being more active (as much as I am able), wear some kind of compression to keep the lymphatic system going, dietary changes, and also connecting with a couple of Facebook groups and a free online Zoom webinar once a month through the Lymphapress company. There is also a pump that I am in the process of trying to acquire that has been recommended by my physical therapist and other patients who use it.

The sad thing is that besides having no cure, this disease is sometimes seen as an overweight woman’s disease along with a few other stigmas surrounding it. A lot of doctors need education in this area as other parts of the body can also be affected by this if left untreated, both internally and externally.

Dealing with this has been pretty trial and error as far as what works and what doesn’t for me. However, I’m glad I have a name for what I’m going through now and I hope there is a cure.

Additional information on Lymphedema

National Lympehedema Network - https://nlnmembership.com/#!form/Contact

National Commission on Lymphatic Diseases - https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/advisory-and-peer-review-committees/national-commission-lymphatic-diseases

EvonniaDominguezLymphedemaStory-https://www.mediusa.com/evonnia-dominguez-lymphedema-story/?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaYmjgYHkJmyS-lNz6sg5d24nJ0_7te6U028O26vQ4Be9i7-wpZy14KleYk_aem_IExqsjVmkK785W9nDCjFIg

Health Article FYI

Trump administration considering closing HIV preventionagency:reports- https://www.washingtonblade.com/2025/03/20/trum p-administration-constidering-closing-hiv-prevention-agency-reports/?eType=EmailBlastContent&eId=560e391b-df39-4a57-8dfa-8c3d0b7c83d3

Interested in learning about Heart Health and other information from Houston Methodist? - https://watch.houstonmethodist.org/

How Often Should You Clean Your House? Room By Room Tips - https://chachingqueen.com/how-often-should-you-be-cleaning-your-home/

Is soy healthy or unhealthy for you? Setting the record straight - https://naturalwomanhood.org/is-soy-healthy-or-unhealthy-for-you/?mc_cid=292ed8fa0f&mc_eid=05040fd20b

Digital Training

Kemi Oyebade — Tue, 01 Apr 2025 16:55:00 GMT

With regret and understanding, we have accepted the resignation of our friend and digital mentor, Teresa Gehrke.

We can all agree she has done a wonderful job during her tenure as the Digital Training Chair, providing us with valuable tools and guidance.

We wish her every good fortune as she moves forward. Please be sure to express your gratitude to her for a job well done! She has worked hard on our behalf.

Bylaws and Resolutions

Kemi Oyebade — Tue, 01 Apr 2025 16:50:00 GMT

The Bylaws are the rules and regulations enacted by NFBPWC to provide a framework for its operation and management. Here is the link to the current bylaws: 2024-2026 NATIONAL BYLAWS AMENDED 20 JULY 2024

Changes to the National Bylaws can only be made at the General Assembly. The next meeting of the General Assembly is scheduled for July 2026. Amendments may be proposed by any Federation or Affiliate Club, Executive Committee, Board of Directors, or an Affiliate Member.

Proposed amendments must be submitted to the Bylaws Committee 60 Days prior to the Biennial General Assembly. Thirty days prior to the General Assembly the proposed amendments will be distributed to the members for their consideration.

Angie Jackson-Wilson
NFBPWC Bylaws and Resolution Chair
2024-2026

CSW Committee

Kemi Oyebade — Tue, 01 Apr 2025 16:40:00 GMT

Beginning May 1st, we will begin the CSW program series for 2025/2026.

NFBPWC & CSW: Expanding Our Impact Over the next 10 months, NFBPWC is embarking on an exciting initiative to educate and empower our members to engage with the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women. This is an incredible opportunity for you to experience strengthening global advocacy efforts and making a lasting impact on gender equality.

Why Get Involved? NFBPWC and BPW International share a powerful voice, and through these collaborations, we can amplify that voice on the global stage. By participating in CSW, members will:

Gain knowledge about international advocacy and UN processes
Connect with like-minded professionals and organizations
Contribute to shaping policies that impact women worldwide
Showcase NFBPWC and BPW International work and leadership at a global level

Our Goal: To present three programs either by or in collaboration with collaboration with NFBPWC members at CSW70 in March of 2026.

Through education, mentorship, and strategic engagement, we will guide members in preparing impactful programs that align with CSW’s themes and objectives. \

How to Get Involved: Build and prepare a program to present, learn about and share information about the CSW process. Whether you are new to CSW or BPW, there is plenty you can do to learn about and participate in one of the greatest global ventures at your fingertips.

Looking forward to hearing from you.president@nfbpwc.org

Treasurer

Kemi Oyebade — Tue, 01 Apr 2025 16:30:00 GMT

SPRING CLEANING!!!

April is an AMAZING Month! Flowers are blooming. Birds are singing. People are traveling more and spending more time outside. It is also a month for reviewing and analyzing your finances and submitting your tax returns.

This is also a good time to review what you have done so far this year and what you plan to do for the next 9 months and make a budget if you haven’t already done one or revise what you had already set up for this year.

My family does “Spring Cleaning.” We go through all of the winter clothes we have to determine which clothes we want to keep and which clothes we will be donating. We also go through all of our Spring/Summer clothes to decide what we want to keep for this year and what to donate. I encourage you all to do your own version of Spring Cleaning and decide what you need to keep in your life and what you would like to let go.

Dr. Jo Naylor
NFBPWC Treasurer
2024-2026

A Message from our Executive Committee

Kemi Oyebade — Tue, 01 Apr 2025 16:05:00 GMT

We proudly stand with our sisters in Ukraine. As members of an international organization dedicated to women's empowerment and human rights, we recognize the importance of speaking out when democratic values are challenged..

Below is a statement from your Executive Committee expressing our solidarity with the Ukrainian people. We stand with them in their pursuit of freedom, justice, and peace.

Help Wanted

Kemi Oyebade — Tue, 01 Apr 2025 16:00:00 GMT

Engage with NFBPWC on Social Media

Kemi Oyebade — Sat, 01 Mar 2025 18:25:00 GMT

Engage with NFBPWC on Social Media

Organization Page:

Group Page:

Organization Page:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2l_ciIxLyvbu1dbBOsV9Tg

YouTube:

Instagram:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nita_Barrow

Nominations

Kemi Oyebade — Sat, 01 Mar 2025 18:20:00 GMT

Remarkable Woman – Dame Ruth Nita Barrow

A Pioneer in Healthcare and Diplomacy

Dame Ruth Nita Barrowwas appointed the first woman Governor General of Barbados on June 6, 1990, and served as Head of State until her passing on December 19, 1995. Born on November 15, 1916,

Nita Barrow came from a family of notable political activists. Her father, an Anglican priest, was removed from his post on the island of St. Croix due to his controversial sermons against racism and social stratification. Her uncle, Dr. Charles Duncan O'Neal, founded the Democratic League of Barbados and was one of the island’s ten National Heroes. Nita's younger brother, Errol Barrow, fought for the nation's independence and became Prime Minister of Barbados.

Nita Barrow paralleled her family's achievements with her activism and humanitarian efforts. She studied nursing in Barbados and continued her education at the University of Toronto, Edinburgh, and Columbia Universities. Beginning her career as a nurse, midwife, and healthcare administrator, she held various positions in Barbados and Jamaica. Barrow soon gained international acclaim as an accomplished public health official and diplomat.

Throughout her illustrious career, Barrow held several prestigious positions:

Public health advisor to the World Health Organization and the Pan-American Health Organization
President of the World YWCA (1975-83)
President of the International Council of Adult Education (1982-90)
President of the World Council of Churches (1983)
Ambassador to the United Nations (1986-90)

In 1980, Queen Elizabeth II knighted Nita Barrow as Dame of St. Andrew and Dame Grand Cross of the Most Distinguished Order of St. Michael and St. George, thereafter known as Dame Ruth Nita Barrow. Known for her outspoken nature and commitment to development, she was especially concerned with women's rights in healthcare.

In 1985, Dame Nita presided over the International Women’s Conference in Nairobi, Kenya. The following year, she was appointed Barbadian Ambassador to the United Nations, a post she held until 1990. Notably, she was the only woman named to the Eminent Persons Group, which investigated racism in South Africa. In 1988, Dame Nita ran against Argentina’s Foreign Minister Dante Caputo for the position of President of the UN General Assembly. Despite a fierce campaign and a historic secret ballot, she lost the election.

Dame Ruth Nita Barrow passed away from a stroke on December 19, 1995, at the age of 79. She is honored by numerous national and international initiatives and awards, including:

The University of Toronto’s Dame Nita Barrow Distinguished Visitorship
The Dame Nita Barrow Award sponsored by the International Council for Adult Education (ICAE)
Caribbean Women Catalysts for Change lecture series
The Nita Barrow Unit of the Institute of Gender and Development Studies, University of the West Indies

Dame Ruth Nita Barrow's legacy lives on through her contributions to healthcare, diplomacy, and the empowerment of women.

The late Governor General of Barbados, Dame Nita Barrow with Angie Jackson-Wilson, March 25, 1993. Dame Nita was the keynote speaker for the Women’s Coalition of St Croix, USVI. Annual Meeting.

Copy of a newspaper announcement

Angie Jackson-Wilson

NFBPWC Nominations Chair

2024-2026

Legacy Fund

Kemi Oyebade — Sat, 01 Mar 2025 18:15:00 GMT

Remarkable Woman – Mary McLeod Bethune (1875-1955)

I am reading the book "The First Ladies" by Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray. Even though this book is fiction, it is based on the friendship between First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt and civil rights activist and educator Mary McLeod Bethune.

Mary, born 15th of 17 siblings, picked cotton to help support her family. At 10 years old she was offered a spot in a local missionary school and became the first in her family to learn to read. She developed a passion for education and founded the Daytona Normal and Industrial Institute for Negro Girls in 1904 which merged with the Cookman Institute for Men and became Bethune-Cookman College in 1923. Discovering the

need for a hospital for black citizens, she opened McLeod Hospital where nurses received hands-on training in Daytona, Florida. She went on to be elected president of the National Association of Colored Women's Clubs in 1924 and founded the National Council of Negro Women in 1935 and remained president until 1949. Mary was also vice president of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People from 1940 to 1955.

Mary's friendship with Eleanor began in 1927 when at a leadership meeting of the country's most influential women's organizations, the all-white attendees refused to sit with Mrs. Bethune, the national president of the National Association of Colored Women. An alliance forged between the two women

over the importance of education and civil and human rights. This mutual admiration and personal friendship afforded her an audience with the president resulting in a major role in organizing the Federal Council on Negro Affairs. She became a cherished advisor and the only black woman in the president's inner circle.

Mary McLeod Bethune resonates with me because

of her bravery and unbridled passion to make a difference at a time when it was the most dangerous. I also think that there is a lesson in her life as she was not shy to forge alliances with white people willing to help her in her mission. Progress involves all people working together.

Deborah Fischer

NFBPWC Legacy Fund Chair

2024-2026

Finance

Kemi Oyebade — Sat, 01 Mar 2025 17:55:00 GMT

Remarkable Woman – Janet YellenPresident

The person I picked to write about is Janet Yellen. Do you know who she is? If not, I will bet you have her autograph in your wallet.

Dr. Yellen served as Secretary of the Treasury under President Joe Biden. She served from January 26, 2021,until January 20, 2025. She was the 78^th Secretary of the Treasury and the first and only woman to hold this position.

Dr. Janet Yellen is no stranger to breaking glass ceilings. An economist with a lifelong commitment to making the American economy one that allows all workers to succeed, she was also the first woman to lead the Federal Reserve and the first person in history to be in charge of the Treasury Department, the Federal Reserve and the White House Council of Economic Advisors.

Janet Louise Yellen was born on August 13, 1946, in Brooklyn, New York. She was the younger child of her father, Julius Yellen, who was a family doctor, and her mother Anna Ruth, who was an elementary school teacher. Yellen excelled at her local Fort Hamilton High School, where she was the editor of the school paper and valedictorian. Yellen has discussed how growing up in a working-class neighborhood and seeing people who could barely afford to pay her father when they were out of work deeply influenced her, showing the “effect unemployment could have… on human terms.” This is a lesson she has carried with her for her entire career.

Yellen attended Brown University, deepening her interest in economics and graduating with a B.A. in 1967. She then continued her studies at Yale University, earning her Ph.D. in 1971, the only woman among 24 Ph.D. graduates in Economics. Yellen taught economics as an Assistant Professor at Harvard University for five years, where she was well- regarded but not offered tenure. During her time at Yale and Harvard, Yellen began exploring more deeply how American companies should and could pay workers fairly.

In 1977, Yellen moved to a job at the Federal Reserve—the central bank of the United States—where she worked as a researcher. That was where she met her husband, fellow economist George Akerlof. Yellen and Akerlof, married since 1978, have long collaborated on economic research studies, and consider each other colleagues as well as life partners. Yellen has said Akerlof is “very committed to being a completely full partner in our marriage” who has contributed equally to raising their now adult son.

After spending two years as a lecturer at the London School of Economics, where Akerlof had accepted a job as a professor before their marriage, Yellen and Akerlof relocated to San Francisco in 1980 to join the faculty at University of California at Berkeley. At the Business School, Yellen was a popular teacher, winning awards and praise from students. She taught there until 1994, researching and publishing papers on policies that she believed would make Americans’ lives better: keeping unemployment low, making sure workers are paid based on quality of work no matter their gender or race, and valuing people’s work based on more than just supply and demand. These policy ideas can be seen clearly in one of her early and most cited papers, written with Akerlof, which explained why paying higher wages was often beneficial to employers as well as employees and did not lead to higher unemployment.

In 1994, Yellen was nominated by President Bill Clinton to be a member of the Federal Reserve, serving under Chairman Alan Greenspan. Greenspan was known as a conservative free market purist, and Yellen often had a different viewpoint, which she would lay out with clear-eyed reasoning. In 1996, Yellen convinced Greenspan that zero inflation should not be a goal; instead, based on academic research, she argued that a little inflation was actually healthy and would prevent recessions. The Fed now maintains a 2% inflation target.

In 1997, Yellen left the Fed to head the White House Council of Economic Advisors (CEA), serving as the primary economic advisor to President Clinton. At the CEA, Yellen oversaw a study on the gender pay gap, which concluded that the disparity was not explained by productivity and must be due to discrimination in the workforce.

In 1999, Yellen returned to UC Berkeley, teaching there until 2004, when she was tapped to lead the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco. During her six-year term as its president, Yellen was credited as one of the first economic policymakers to observe rapidly rising housing prices as a possible bubble which might harm the economy. By September 2007, Yellen urged policymakers to act preemptively and in 2008 was the first Fed official to say the economy was in recession. Yellen was part of the team that managed the 2008 recession, maintaining her focus on helping workers.

In 2010, President Barack Obama nominated Yellen to be Vice-Chair of the Federal Reserve, where she advocated that the Fed use “all available tools” to bring down unemployment. This was a somewhat controversial opinion, but Yellen was confident that research proved it was the correct path. In 2013, Yellen was appointed to succeed Benjamin Bernanke as Chair of the Federal Reserve—the first woman to hold this job. She oversaw the task of gradually “unwinding” (slowly ending) the government’s propping up of the economy and remained in the position until early 2018.

Yellen’s time as Fed Chair was very successful if judged by the labor market, her primary focus as an academic and policymaker. During her tenure, the unemployment rate dropped from 6.7% to 4.1%, decreasing every month under her leadership. She was also steadfast in her defense of the Dodd Frank Financial Reform and Consumer Protection Act (2010), which regulated various parts of the financial industry more rigorously than many economists deemed necessary. Yellen believed that oversight had in fact made the banking system stronger.

After leaving the Fed in early 2018, Yellen moved to The Brookings Institution, a think tank in Washington DC. President Joe Biden announced his intention to name Yellen as Treasury Secretary in late November 2020, and she was confirmed by the Senate in January 2021.

Sandy Thompson

NFBPWC Finance Chair

Digital Training

Kemi Oyebade — Sat, 01 Mar 2025 17:40:00 GMT

Teressa Gehrke, current Digital Training Chair, will be resigning her position effective Mar 13, 2025, in order to spend more time growing her online safety company, PopCykol. She is hoping a member will step up and take on this role to continue the tradition of quarterly training and helping to keep the membership safe online.

If you’re interested in the Chair position, please reach out to to DigitalTraining@nfbpwc.org

Remarkable Woman – Hedy Lamarr

Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and GPS, revolutionizing secure communication methods.

Resource to explore:

https://www.womenshistory.org/education-resources/biographies/hedy-lamarr

For additional technology assistance or questions, please email: DigitalTraining@nfbpwc.org.

I chose Hedy Lamarr for her contribution to technology and advancing women's ingenuity in the technology world. Lamarr considered the "the mother of Wi-Fi" was an esteemed inventor. Hedy Lamarr's frequency-hopping technology, developed during World War II, involved rapidly switching radio frequencies to prevent enemy jamming or interception of communications. This innovation, initially designed for torpedo guidance systems, laid the groundwork for modern wireless technologies like

Teressa Gehrke

NFBPWC Digital Training Special Committee Chair

Bylaws & Resolutions: Remarkable Woman – Kathleen Babineaux Blanco

Kemi Oyebade — Sat, 01 Mar 2025 17:35:00 GMT

Remarkable Woman – Kathleen Babineaux Blanco

First Woman Elected Governor in Louisiana

Kathleen Babineaux Blanco, a native of New Iberia, Louisiana, began her illustrious career after earning a bachelor's degree in business education from UL Lafayette (then the University of Southwestern Louisiana) in 1964. Starting as a teacher at Breaux Bridge High School, she quickly broke political barriers by becoming the first woman from Lafayette Parish elected to the state legislature in 1984. In 1986, she further cemented her legacy as the first woman elected to the Louisiana Public Service Commission, eventually chairing the commission in 1993 and 1994.

Blanco's political journey continued as she served two terms as Louisiana's lieutenant governor, beginning in 1996. Re-elected with overwhelming support, she played a pivotal role in overseeing the state's Department of Culture, Recreation, and Tourism, contributing to a $2.5 billion increase in the tourism industry's economic output and the creation of 21,000 new jobs. Her initiatives included launching the Audubon Golf Trail and administering the Louisiana Serve Commission and the Louisiana Retirement Development Commission.

In 2004, Blanco shattered another glass ceiling by becoming Louisiana’s first woman governor. Her administration focused on education reform, chairing the Southern Regional Education Board, and making significant strides in economic development. Under her leadership, nearly $24 billion in new investments poured into the state, creating approximately 35,000 jobs. She expanded access to health insurance for children and overhauled the juvenile justice system, earning national recognition.

Blanco's tenure was defined by her leadership during Hurricane Katrina in 2005, the largest natural disaster in American history. Her revamped evacuation plan saved countless lives, moving 1.3 million people to safety. She commanded the largest deployment of National Guardsmen by any governor in U.S. history and secured critical funding from Congress to aid in the state's recovery. Her efforts led to the establishment of the Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority, safeguarding Louisiana’s wetlands against future storms.

After retiring from public office, Blanco dedicated herself to various boards and committees aimed at improving education, healthcare, and alleviating poverty. She spearheaded the creation of the Kathleen Babineaux Blanco Public Policy Center at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, ensuring her legacy of passionate public service would continue.

Governor Blanco passed away on August 18, 2019, following a battle with cancer. Her indomitable spirit and commitment to Louisiana live on through the work of the policy center that bears her name.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kathleen_Blanco

https://blancocenter.louisiana.edu/about-us/about-gov-blanco

https://www.c-span.org/person/kathleen-babineaux-blanco/45245/

Lieutenant Governor Kathleen Blanco was the keynote speaker at the 2003 Louisiana Federation of Business and Professional Women State Conference in Monroe, LA at the Holiday Inn Holidome. (Pictured below)

Angie Jackson-Wilson

NFBPWC Bylaws and Resolution Chair

2024-2026

Public Relations Committee Report

Kemi Oyebade — Sat, 01 Feb 2025 18:25:00 GMT

Engage with NFBPWC on Social Media

Organization Page:

Group Page:

Organization Page:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2l_ciIxLyvbu1dbBOsV9Tg

YouTube:

Instagram:

https://tinyurl.com/52nbwbv4

Calling All Leaders: NFBPWC Seeks Passionate Board Members

Kemi Oyebade — Sat, 01 Feb 2025 18:20:00 GMT

By: Angie Jackson-Wilson
NFBPWC Nominations Chair 2024-2026

Are you ready to make a lasting impact and champion the cause of professional women across the nation?

The National Federation of Business and Professional Women's Clubs (NFBPWC) is on the lookout for dedicated leaders to join our Board of Directors. As we pave the way for future generations, we need your expertise, passion, and commitment to drive our mission forward.

A Call to States and Affiliates

We are once again issuing an appeal to states and affiliates to nominate qualified candidates for both elected and appointed positions on the Board of Directors. This is your opportunity to contribute to the governance, strategic direction, and sustainability of NFBPWC, an organization that has been at the forefront of advocating for women's rights and professional growth.

While the roles and responsibilities for each position are outlined in the organization's bylaws, here are some basic insights into the expectations for board members.

As a board member, you will work closely with the President and other members of the Executive Committee and Board of Directors. Your role will involve the oversight of the organization's activities, contributing to policy development and implementation, and supporting our fundraising efforts. You will be a key player in ensuring NFBPWC's continued success and growth.

Key Responsibilities:

Attend and actively participate in board meetings, committees, and related events.
Contribute to the development and approval of the organization's strategic plans and policies.
Monitor the organization's financial performance and ensure fiscal responsibility.
Support and participate in fundraising activities and campaigns.
Provide guidance and support to the President and her team.
Ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.
Represent the organization in the community and act as an ambassador for its mission.
Collaborate with other board members and stakeholders to achieve the organization's goals.

Qualifications:

Experience serving in a leadership role.
Strong commitment to the mission and values of NFBPWC.
Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
Ability to think strategically and provide sound governance.
Experienceinfundraisingandfinancial oversight.
Willingness to commit time and resources to board activities.

Join Us and Make a Difference

Board members are elected for a two-year term, with the possibility of re-election for additional terms. The board meets quarterly, offering ample opportunity for meaningful engagement and contribution. This is more than just a position—it's a chance to be a part of a dynamic team dedicated to making a difference in the lives of professional women nationwide.

If you are passionate about our mission and possess the qualifications to help lead NFBPWC into the future, we encourage you to step forward. Your leadership can shape the future of our organization and the professional lives of countless women across the country.

Contact me at: nominations@nfbpwc.org

Angie Jackson-Wilson

NFBPWC Nominations Chair 2024-2026

Finance

Kemi Oyebade — Sat, 01 Feb 2025 18:00:00 GMT

By: Sandy Thompson
NFBPWC Finance Chair

The Finance Committee is looking for committee members. If you have an interest in money and helping our organization to raise funds, please contact me at finance@nfbpwc.org.

This year we would like to apply for grants. This is something that is not in my wheelhouse. So, we are looking for members who would be willing to provide advice or to assist in the effort of finding grants and then helping to write them. If you know of someone or you would like to help, please let me know.

Also, remember you can advertise in our eMagazine. If you are a member, you can place a quarter page ad for only $25.00. Even a full-page ad is only $85.00, a much better deal than the average for a magazine.

Your help would be greatly appreciated.

On a more personal note, if you are interested in historical fiction, I would like to recommend a book entitled Becoming Madam Secretary by Stephanie Dray. It is about Frances Perkins who was the first female cabinet member. She served as Secretary of Labor under President Franklin D. Roosevelt. It is an

incredible story of the work of one woman who has made an impact on all our lives.

I would also like to share something I saw on Facebook.

Six Little Stories with lots of Meanings

Once all the villagers decided to pray for rain. On the day of the prayer, all the people gathered but only one boy came with an umbrella. That is faith.
When you throw babies into the air, they laugh because they know you will catch them. Thai is trust.
Every night we go to bed without any assurance of being alive in the morning, but still we set alarms to wake up. That is hope.
We plan big things for tomorrow in spite of zero knowledge of the future. That is confidence.
We see the world suffering, but still, we get married and have children. That is love.
On an old man’s shirt was written a sentence “I am not 80 years old; I am sweet 16 with 64 years of experience.” That is attitude.

Have a happy day and live your life like these six stores. Remember – Good friends are the rare jewels of life, difficult to find and impossible to replace!

Sandy Thompson

NFBPWC Finance Chair

Upcoming Digital Training

Kemi Oyebade — Sat, 01 Feb 2025 17:45:00 GMT

By: Teressa Gehrke
NFBPWC Digital Training Special Committee Chair

Upcoming Digital Training

Join Digital Training Sunday, February 9 at 5:00pm MT for a virtual event that will cover new Zoom features and artificial intelligence features. This is also a good time to review some online safety tips, like romance scams before Valentine’s Day. Register online.

Here are some resources to review before our event:

For additional technology assistance or questions, please email: DigitalTraining@nfbpwc.org.

Teressa Gehrke

NFBPWC Digital Training Special Committee Chair

Report on the Bylaws Committee

Kemi Oyebade — Sat, 01 Feb 2025 17:40:00 GMT

By: Angie Jackson-Wilson
NFBPWC Bylaws and Resolution Chair 2024-2026

Report on the Bylaws Committee

The Bylaws Committee held its virtual quarterly meeting on January 13, 2025. Participants in the discussion included Angie Jackson-Wilson, Co-Chair; Dr. Twyla Lee Wynn; Rosalind Scott; and President Barbara Bozeman. Co-Chair Varnell Kinnin was absent.

The bylaws that were amended at the biennial conference on July 19, 2024, have now been uploaded to the website.
To ensure that the state and affiliate bylaws are following the bylaws of the National Federation of Business and Professional Women's Clubs, President Barbara Bozeman requested at the Board of Directors meeting on January 7th that each of the affiliates forward their current bylaws to the Bylaws Chair. The committee members are conducting the review.
Proposed amendments to the bylaws must follow Article XX.

ARTICLE XX – AMENDMENTS

Section1These Bylaws may be amended at any General Assembly and Biennial Conference by a two- thirds vote of those present and voting.

Section 2Amendments may be proposed by any State Federation or Affiliate club, the Executive Committee, the Board of Directors, or an Affiliate member.

Section 3Proposed amendments shall be submitted to the Bylaws Committee at least sixty (60) days prior to the General Assembly and Biennial Conference and distributed to the membership thirty (30) days before the conference.

Section 4Any proposed bylaws amendment submitted less than the sixty (60) days requirement may be considered at the General Assembly and Biennial Conference provided that:

The proposed amendment is presented in writing to the Bylaws/Resolutions Committee prior to the Pre- Board of Directors Meeting.
Two-thirds of the conference voting body agrees to hear it.
A written copy is distributed to the voting body at a business session preceding that at which the vote is taken.
In an emergency, without advance notice, an amendment may be considered at a General Assembly and Biennial Conference if it arises out of the business of the General Assembly and Biennial Conference and consent for its consideration is first given by three fourths (3/4) vote.
The Bylaws/Resolutions Committee, with the approval of the Executive Committee, shall make necessary grammatical, punctuation and editorial corrections to these Bylaws. These corrections shall in no way alter the intent of the Bylaws.

Amended July 19, 2024

Angie Jackson-Wilson

NFBPWC Bylaws and Resolution Chair 2024-2026

Advocacy – LGBTQ+

Kemi Oyebade — Sat, 01 Feb 2025 17:35:00 GMT

By: Susan Oser NFBPWC Advocacy Team LGBTQ+ Lead & LGBTQ+ Advocacy Team: Amanda L Collier, DC, PA Affiliate Chapter Member

If you have noticed with the incoming administration, there have been a lot of anti-trans and anti-LGBTQ legislation coming out of the woodwork. Here are a few that are worth taking note of:

Mike Johnson sneaks trans bathroom ban at

U.S. Capitol into congressional rules - https://tinyurl.com/jrz6ynm2

What You Need to Know About Trump’s New Anti-Trans and Non-Binary Executive Order - https://pridesource.com/article/trump-executive-orders-jan-2025

For Your Information:

Hello from Margy at Lesbian Connection magazine!

Lesbian Connection is the free worldwide forum of news, ideas and information for, by and about lesbians. We’ve been publishing since 1974, and we mail issues out every other month in plain brown envelopes (the word “lesbian” doesn’t appear anywhere on the outside).

This magazine is a grassroots forum, which means it’s truly written by our readers. On its pages you’ll find info for lesbians on places to live and where to travel, lesbian B&Bs and guesthouses, websites, cruises, festivals, conferences, lesbian land and retirement communities, products (books, CDs, DVDs, etc.), campgrounds and retreats, lesbian lawyers and

LGBTQ+ Dates for February -

Black History Month
February 7: National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day

realtors, as well as the comic strip “Dykes to Watch Out For” and much more. There are also reviews, articles, letters and topics dealing with whatever issues LC’s readers are talking about, from health issues and politics to relationships and pets.

So, if you’re a lesbian (or know of one), all you need to do is email us (LC@LConline.org) your full name and complete (snail mail) mailing address and we’ll be happy to add you to our list. (By the way, our mailing list is totally confidential; we will never sell, loan or share it with anyone else.) We’d also like to know where you heard about us.

In case you’re wondering, LC survives on the donations we receive from our readers. However, contributions are voluntary, and subscriptions really are free. Our goal is, quite simply, to connect the lesbian community worldwide.

(F.Y.I.: Our official name and address is Elsie Publishing Institute (EPI), PO Box 811, East Lansing, MI 48826, ph 517-371-5257, fax 517-371-5200,

www.LConline.org. EPI is a U.S. tax-deductible 501(c)(3) nonprofit charity.) Be sure to “Like” us on Facebook!!! – “facebook.com/LConline”

Elsie Publishing, PO Box 811, East Lansing, MI 48826 Ph (517)371-5257 Fax (517)371-5200

Email: LC@LConline.org www.LConline.org

Week after Valentine’s Day: Aromantic Spectrum Awareness Week
February 28: HIV Is Not a Crime Awareness Day

Good LGBTQ+ News–

A Mother's Love, A Son's Journey: The Birth of Stand with Trans Executive Director Roz Keith told her son, Hunter: ‘I just want you to be happy.' - https://pridesource.com/article/stand-with-trans-roz-keith
Before Stonewall and before the Mattachine Society, there was Henry Gerber's Society for Human Rights. -

Helplines

The Trevor Project: (866) 488-7386

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: (800) 273-8255

Ali Forney Day Center: (212) 206-0574

Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Info: (800) 342-AIDS (2437), Spanish service: (800) 344- 7432, TDD service for the deaf: (800) 243-7889, [10:00am till 10:00pm EST, Monday through Friday]

The Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender National Hotline: (888) 843-4564

The GLBT National Youth Talkline (youth serving youth through age 25): (800) 246-7743

The National Runaway Switchboard: (800) RUNAWAY (786-2929)

If you have any news or leads on anything related to LGBTQ+ news, issues, and organizations, please contact Sue Oser at soser@nfbpwc.org. If you would like to help Susan educate on these issues, please let her know as well. She is also available for presentations and any questions you may have.

Susan Oser NFBPWC Advocacy Team LGBTQ+ Lead

LGBTQ+ Advocacy Team: Amanda L Collier, DC, PA Affiliate Chapter Member

Celebrating Black History Month

Kemi Oyebade — Sat, 01 Feb 2025 17:00:00 GMT

Public Relations Committee Report

Kemi Oyebade — Wed, 01 Jan 2025 18:10:00 GMT

Engage with NFBPWC on Social Media

Organization Page:

Group Page:

Organization Page:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2l_ciIxLyvbu1dbBOsV9Tg

YouTube:

Instagram:

Link for the Nomination for Standing Committee Members (2024-2027)

Nominations

Kemi Oyebade — Wed, 01 Jan 2025 18:05:00 GMT

By: Angie Jackson-Wilson
NFBPWC Nominations Chair 2024-2026

The Nominations Committee is requesting each affiliate to submit the names of candidates for leadership positions within the organization. By engaging with affiliates, the committee aims to foster a collaborative environment essential for organizational growth. This strategy will not only diversify the pool of expertise but also ensure that leadership roles are filled with individuals who have a deep understanding of the organization's unique perspectives and challenges. The committee's commitment to this process is commendable and will likely contribute to robust governance and a dynamic future for the organization. We are still seeking volunteers to serve on the committee.

Regional Coordinator, North America and the Caribbean Region (NAC)

Kemi Oyebade — Wed, 01 Jan 2025 18:00:00 GMT

By: Karen GorgeratRegional Coordinator, North America and the Caribbean (2024- 2027)

Greetings BPW Sisters!

It is a pleasure to send this message to you as Regional Coordinator, North America and Caribbean Region (NAC). It is truly an honour to have the opportunity to work with all of you over the next triennium.

I have been a BPW Canada member for over 30 years and have had a lot of different positions over the years including Club President, BPW Ontario President and this year I finished my term as Immediate Past President of BPW Canada. I live in Quinte West in the Province of Ontario, which is 2 hours east of Toronto. I joined BPW as a way to meet some like-minded women in my community, and by being engaged in the work of our club it became so much more than that. This work included helping draft Resolutions, writing Briefs and presenting to Ontario and the Canadian Government officials, presentations for Leadership Training, attending Commission on Status of Women (CSW) AND meeting amazing women from around the world. I hope you will all consider taking your BPW membership to the next level and enjoy all that your membership can give you – what you give to BPW you will get back a hundred-fold.

The BPW International theme for this triennium is “Inspire, Innovate, Empower, Transform: Together We Shape a Sustainable Future.”

Our new BPW International executive, led by President Diana Barragan, is committed to be open and transparent and members will be able to see and appreciate the value of their membership. In NAC, our work will follow that theme to

1. Sustain and Grow our Membership,

2. Educate our Affiliates in the area of Advocacy and

3. Leadership Development to help with Succession

Planning of clubs and member engagement. We will be finalizing our Regional Committe

e team very soon, and I know with the dedication and commitment of this team we will be a strong force to support BPW International and each other in this beautiful region. May 2025 be a year for all of you that is full of love, laughter, good health and hope.

Pictured Right: NFBPWC Pres Barbara, BPW Canada Pres Shan, RC Karin

Health

Kemi Oyebade — Wed, 01 Jan 2025 17:50:00 GMT

By: Susan Oser
NFBPWC Health Chair, health@nfbpwc.org

Our health committee continues to keep on going. While one plan is made it evolves and changes with more discussions and more voices in the mix. Our meetings are held on the 3^rd Mondays of the month unless there is a conflict or a holiday. Our next meeting with be January 27, 2025, at 8pm ET since January 20 is the Inauguration and Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday and we would like to respect that. Our signature event that we co-sponsor with Houston Methodist Hospital is Heart of a Woman, which is slated on February 7, 2025. Please see the details below.

If you are a former member of the health committee or would like to find an area where you could be involved, please contact me at health@nfbpwc.org and I will put you on my list. The more you can contribute, the easier it makes it for me. I’d love to have you. We will meet on the 3^rd or 4^th Monday of the month unless there are any conflicts or holiday forthcoming. Next meeting is January 27, 2025

Healthy Thinking for the Month:

Happy New Year! Have you ever thought about your life and your own self-care? Why not make this year your self-care year but get rid of things you don’t need, going to your doctors’ appointments, and taking time to relax. The more you take care of yourself, the more the world will take care of you.

Health Awareness Dates:

January is –

Bath Safety Month, Birth Defects Month, Celebration of Life Month, Cervical Health Awareness Month, Children Impacted by Parent's Cancer Month, Clap 4 Health, Financial Wellness Month, Get A Balanced Life Month, Get Organized Month, International Creativity Month, International Quality of Life Month, International Wealth Mentality Month, Learn to Ski and Snowboard Month, National Be On-Purpose Month, National Braille Literacy Month Link, National Clean Up Your Computer Month, National

Codependency Awareness Month, National Conscience Month, National Glaucoma Awareness Month, National Opticians Month, National Personal Self-Defense Awareness Month, National Personal Trainer Awareness Month, National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month, National Stalking Awareness Month, National Volunteer Blood Donor Month, Self-help Group Awareness Month, Self-Love Month, Thyroid Awareness Month, Walk Your Pet Month, World Introvert Month Link

Healthy Recipes:

The following is a nice healthy punch that not only can you make for the holidays, but also make for any party courtesy of Bonnie O’Leary, Washington BPW (who has a story attached to it).

By 2023 Windermere Services Company, All rights reserved. I called the local office to ensure we can publish this on our website. They said it was not a problem and wish the recipients a happy holiday.

Ingredients:

5 cups of Tropical Punch
1 cup cranberry juice
1 cup of pineapple juice
1/2 cup lemon juice
4-5 cups of ginger ale
1 pint raspberry sherbet

Instructions: Chill all ingredients. When ready, combine in a large bowl in this order: tropical punch, cranberry juice, pineapple juice, lemon juice. Slowly add the ginger ale to maintain as much fizz as possible, then add the raspberry sherbet one scoop at a time.

Let the beverage sit for a few minutes as the sherbet breaks down, helping the sherbet mix with a wooden spoon to combine evenly. Serve with a ladle and enjoy.

If you would like to submit a healthy recipe to publish in future newsletters, please send them to health@nfbpwc.org

Article courtesy of Health Committee member Kathy Clevenger-Burdell’s research –

November 18, 2024

Kelly, Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Combat the Syphilis Epidemic, Protect Mothers and Infants

U.S Senators Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Roger Wicker (R-MS), and Mike Braun (R-IN) introduced the Maternal and Infant Syphilis Prevention Act, legislation to protect pregnant mothers and infants by requiring the Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary to issue guidance to states on best practices for screening and treatment of congenital syphilis under Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), and the Indian Health Service (IHS).

The house version is led by Representatives Juan Ciscomani (R-AZ-6) and Yadira Caraveo (D-CO-8).

“Arizona has seen a concerning increase in congenital syphilis cases over the past few years. We know this disease is preventable, and we owe it to our communities to make that a reality,” said Kelly. “Information saves lives, and this bipartisan legislation is a critical step in making sure mothers and babies receive the screenings and treatments they need to stay healthy.”

“As New Mexico tackles the syphilis epidemic, I remain committed to protecting pregnant mothers and babies by ensuring they have access to essential screening and treatment for congenital syphilis. That is what my Maternal and Infant Syphilis Prevention Act will do,” said Heinrich. “I will keep fighting to expand access to the high-quality health care New Mexicans need in their home communities.”

“With rapidly rising rates of congenital syphilis in Arizona’s newborns, we need to ensure our mothers, families, and health care professionals have thorough access to proper information and solutions when it comes to tackling

and preventing this disease,” said Ciscomani. “I am proud to co-lead this bipartisan effort to promote and improve screenings and treatments for syphilis, ensuring pregnant women, mothers, and babies stay as healthy as possible.”

“Affirm is proud to have supported the Maternal and Infant Syphilis Prevention Act and we are grateful to Senator Kelly for his role in its introduction. As the HHS OPA funded Title X Family Planning Grantee in the state of Arizona, our staff are keenly aware of the devastating consequences of undetected or undertreated syphilis on babies and families in Arizona. Affirm is committed to be part of solutions aimed to increase access to syphilis screening and timely treatment, educate health professionals and our communities, and decrease stigma around this vitally important health topic. Our babies are counting on us to reduce maternal and infant syphilis. We applaud Senator Kelly for making this a priority and we look forward to celebrating the passage of this bill,” said Karen Martinot, DNP, WHNP, Director of Programs & Clinical Administration, Affirm Sexual and Reproductive Health.

Background

Untreated, syphilis can seriously damage the heart and brain and can cause blindness, deafness, and paralysis among newborns. Screening during the third trimester and delivery can lead to earlier detection of congenital syphilis and prevent adverse health outcomes for mothers and newborn infants. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) data shows Arizona as the state with the third highest rate of congenital syphilis in the nation.

Specifically, the Maternal and Infant Syphilis Prevention Act requires the HHS to issue guidance to state Medicaid agencies on actions states may take to improve access to syphilis screening for pregnant mothers and infants, best practices for physicians treating cases of congenital syphilis, strategies for increasing access to telehealth services, and increasing access to treatment in the third trimester and at delivery.

The legislation is endorsed by the National Coalition of STD Directors, March of Dimes, American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, Association of Maternal & Child Health Programs, and Affirm. The text of the bill is here.

Learn More at: https://nfbpwc.org/heart-of-a-woman

SAVE THE DATE

Digital Training

Kemi Oyebade — Wed, 01 Jan 2025 17:40:00 GMT

By: Teressa Gehrke
NFBPWC Digital Training Special Committee Chair

Upcoming Digital Training

The next Digital Training event is Sunday, February, 9 2025, 5:00 pm MT. virtual event will cover new Zoom features and putting your best face forward personally and professionally. This is also a good time to review some online safety tips, like romance scams before Valentine’s Day.

Here are some resources to review before our event:

● Zoom Learning Center

● Zoom on YouTube

For additional technology assistance or questions, please email: DigitalTraining@nfbpwc.org.

Looking for a few good women

Are you tech savvy? Join the Digital Training Committee.Email DigitalTraining@nfbpwc.org, if you’re interested. The committee will support the chair with ongoing tech news through blogs, articles, and quarterly events.

Bylaws and Resolutions

Kemi Oyebade — Wed, 01 Jan 2025 17:35:00 GMT

By: Angie Jackson-Wilson, NFBPWC Bylaws and Resolution Chair 2024-2026
Varnell Kinnen, Co-Chair

The Bylaws and Resolutions Committee convened in October, marking a significant advancement in our organization's dedication to aligning governing documents with our mission. We are requesting each affiliate to review their bylaws and ensure they align with those of the National Organization.

In the upcoming months, our focus will be on promoting consistency and collaboration among affiliates. It is crucial for each affiliate to nominate a representative to serve on the committee. This step guarantees diverse perspectives and inclusive decision-making, which not only strengthens the committee's function but also empowers affiliates to actively contribute to the organization's future. This collective effort will undoubtedly lead to a more robust and mission-focused governance structure.

Advocacy - LGBTQ+

Kemi Oyebade — Wed, 01 Jan 2025 17:30:00 GMT

By: Susan Oser, NFBPWC Advocacy Team LGBTQ+ Lead
LGBTQ+ Advocacy Team: Amanda L Collier, DC, PA Affiliate Chapter Member

Happy New Year! What are your New Year’s resolutions? Maybe one of them is being an ally to the LGBTQ+ community. Here are some resources to help you:

Straight for Equality: Guide to Being an Ally to Trans and Nonbinary People - https://tinyurl.com/5fkey84w

Friends & Family Support Systems for LGBTQ+ Youth - https://tinyurl.com/sxes3z24 We Need to Talk More About Trans People, Not Less - https://tinyurl.com/4nujxkd3

LGBTQ+ Dates for January

National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month

Jan. 15-19: No Name-Calling Week

January 27: International Holocaust Remembrance Day – Honoring the memory of all who suffered, including the many LGBTQ individuals persecuted during the Holocaust.

Good LGBTQ+ News–

✓ Making History: Iowa elects first transgender woman to the state legislature - https://tinyurl.com/yc4d98kj

✓ Alex Consani becomes first transgender Model of the Year - https://tinyurl.com/5jtevvb7 ✓ Trans power couple Zooey Zephyr & Erin Reed got married & the pictures will melt your heart - https://tinyurl.com/yc44ewr5

Helplines

The Trevor Project: (866) 488-7386

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: (800) 273-8255

Ali Forney Day Center: (212) 206-0574

Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Info: (800) 342-AIDS (2437), Spanish service: (800) 344-7432, TDD service for the deaf: (800) 243-7889, [10:00am till 10:00pm EST, Monday through Friday]

The Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender National Hotline: (888) 843-4564

The GLBT National Youth Talkline (youth serving youth through age 25): (800) 246-7743 The National Runaway Switchboard: (800) RUNAWAY (786-2929)

Advocacy

Kemi Oyebade — Wed, 01 Jan 2025 17:25:00 GMT

By: Nancy Werner
NFBPWC Advocacy Team ERA Lead (2022-2026)

EQUAL RIGHTS AMENDMENT – The Unbelievable Story that is HAPPENING!

Advocacy –Equal Rights Amendment. “Equality of rights under the law shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or any State on account of sex” needs to be placed into our Constitution. While most states have laws prohibiting discrimination of any kind based on sex, proponents of the E.R.A. say laws can be reversed or eliminated. Having a Constitutional Amendment would cement those rights. We are in a whirlwind of Equal Rights Amendment news as we come to the close of the Biden Presidency. I want you to call the White House, (Tuesday to Thursday, 11:00 am to 3:00 pm, Phone Number 202-456-1111), send texts to the White House (302-404-0880) and even send letters to President Biden asking him to tell the archivist to place the 28^th Amendment into the Constitution. Just take some time.

In early December we heard U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand of New York. Most Senators signed the letter that she composed encouraging President Biden to tell the archivist to place the ERA into the Constitution. She held a town meeting that first week and really shared the process of getting the ERA into the Constitution. Sen. Gillibrand is determined.

But soon after the town hall, we heard from the Archivist, Dr. Colleen J. Shogan who shared that she would not publish the ERA if even asked. The ERA Coalition responded to the National Archives “Statement on the Equal Rights Amendment Ratification Process”

Tuesday, December 17, 2024 Washington, DC … We are deeply disappointed by today’s statement from the Archivist of the United States Dr. Colleen Shogan and Deputy Archivist William J. Bosanko. The Archivist’s position offers nothing new and has no bearing on the Equal Rights Amendment’s status as validly ratified. The ERA belongs to the people, and its future cannot be determined by political hesitations.

“The National Archivist has a legal and moral obligation to follow the Constitution and publish amendments as directed by the states. In hiding behind bad-faith and non-binding time limits imposed on the ERA by a long-expired Congress, the archivist does what every American institution has done to women throughout our history; serves as an instrument of our oppression. We are incredibly disappointed in this decision, but not naive enough to say that we are surprised by it,” said Alyssa Milano, Chair - ERA Coalition Board of Directors.

The Equal Rights Amendment was passed by Congress in 1972, and by 2020, it met the constitutional requirement of ratification by 38 states. It is ready for publication as the 28th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. Yet opponents of equality continue to cling to outdated technicalities, including a time limit placed in the preamble. History proves them wrong: the 27th Amendment, governing congressional pay, was ratified after more than 200 years.

The American Bar Association (ABA) affirms this truth. In adopting Resolution 601, the ABA recognizes the ERA as the 28th Amendment and calls for its immediate publication.

A clear majority of voters stand with us. Recent polling reveals that 61% of voters—including 87% of Democrats, 64% of Independents, and 35% of Republicans—believe the ERA must be published. This public mandate strengthens our resolve.

The battle for equality is far from over. President Biden has the opportunity—and the obligation—to publish the Equal Rights Amendment. But regardless of the obstacles we face, we will not give up. We will persist because gender equality is non-negotiable and enshrining it in our Constitution is long overdue.

This is a fight for the people’s Constitution and for a more just and equitable country. The ERA has met all constitutional requirements, and we will see it recognized as the 28th Amendment.

In the name of The People’s Constitution, we will persist until the ERA is recognized. Now we move on to the next exciting development. Carolyn Maloney steps in…

Dear ERA Supporter,

As the clock ticks down on the current congressional session, we find ourselves at the edge of both frustration and hope. Because of your demonstrated commitment to the ERA and equality, I want to bring you up to date and outline the next steps.

The Equal Rights Amendment joint resolutions before Congress that recognized the ERA as ratified and eliminated the arbitrary timeline were not adopted this session. BUT... let’s not mistake the end of this session for the end of this fight. The ERA hasn’t lost ground; instead, given the 2024 election results there is a newfound urgency.

As the 118th Congress concludes in early January, we must honor those who stood for equality - the 214 House Democrats who signed the ERA discharge petition. Only four Republicans were needed to bring the ERA to the floor for a vote. We were closer than at any time in the past to enshrining the ERA into the Constitution, and I believe Failure is Impossible. This Republican absence looms large, a reactionary shadow cast by those opposed to gender equality that obstructs what is fair and just. And so, we will work now to ensure that voters remember—and act accordingly— in November 2026.

Current Status of ERA Tangled in Confusion and Risk. Over these past weeks, I’ve read countless emails, sat through heated meetings, and heard the cries for action directed at President Biden urging him to order the Archivist to certify and publish the ERA in the Constitution. I understand the yearning for a decisive stroke. But this path, I believe, is a snare, tangled in legal thorns, DANGEROUS and fraught with risk.

After careful study and consultation with leading constitutional experts, I am certain that Congress must pass joint resolutions to recognize the ERA and remove the arbitrary time limit. The evidence is unyielding - President Biden has no role in this amending process.

His intervention could set off a chain reaction, handing ERA opponents an opportunity to challenge the amendment in court. A judicial gauntlet with judges appointed by the previous administration risks obliterating decades of progress, forcing us to begin again, clawing our way back through Congress, where a 2/3rds vote is needed in the House and Senate, and ¾ of state legislatures must ratify any new amendment. In January 2022, President Biden released a statement on the House ERA resolution again expressing his support for the ERA “loudly and clearly.” His statement continued by saying:

We must recognize the clear will of the American people and definitively enshrine the principle of gender equality in the Constitution. It is long past time that we put all doubt to rest. I am calling on Congress to act immediately to pass a resolution recognizing ratification of the ERA. As the recently published Office of Legal Counsel memorandum makes clear, there is nothing standing in Congress’ way from doing so.

As the Columbia Law School ERA Project points out -- Congress has the clear authority to amend, extend, or repeal the ratification time limit placed in the preamble to the Equal Rights Amendment. I believe congressional actions are the only viable route to affirming that the ERA is part of the Constitution.

Article V of the Constitution is clear: the power to amend lies solely with Congress and the states. It is Congress that must act to repeal the time limit and recognize the ERA’s ratification by 38 state legislatures. The time for half-measures has passed.

The Archivist, too, occupies a liminal—between and betwixt-- space. During her Senate confirmation hearings, Archivist Dr. Colleen Shogan was asked whether the Archivist has the authority to certify the ERA. Her accompanying written response was illuminating and cautious:

Following ratification by three-fourths of the states, the Archivist of the United States, pursuant to statute, is to identify that ratifying states, publish the amendment, and certify that the amendment has become part of the United States Constitution.

As I understand it, the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) has been ratified by 38 states. However, three ratifications occurred after the June 30, 1982 congressional-imposed deadline. The question is whether Congress has the power to impose a deadline on the ratification of a constitutional amendment. The Constitution is silent on this issue. However, Congress has established such deadlines since the Prohibition amendment, and its power to do so have been supported by the Supreme Court.

Two legal memoranda, written by the Office of Legal Counsel (OLC) of the Department of Justice from the previous [Trump] Administration and current [Biden] Administration, support this interpretation. Additionally, the 2022 OLC memorandum states, “[T]he 2020 OLC Opinion does not preclude the House or the Senate from taking further action regarding ratification of the ERA. As a co-equal branch of government, Congress is entitled to take a different view on these complex and unsettled questions.”

I also understand that this issue is being litigated in Virginia v. Ferriero, a case which is currently on appeal. Ultimately, this is an issue that will be resolved by Congress and the courts.

On December 17, the Archives issued a Statement on the Equal Rights Amendment Ratification Process that updates an earlier statement and points out: The OLC concluded that extending or removing the deadline requires new action by Congress or the courts.

Though the DC Circuit Court dismissed the Illinois v. Ferriero lawsuit on standing grounds, the issue remains a labyrinth, winding between Congress and the judiciary. And let’s not forget that the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) is an independent agency. Under the law, the Archivist has broad authority over records management, facilities, grants, agreements and general agency administration. Overall, the President has no authority over policy development or actions of independent agencies including NARA.

I will not rest in this fight. And I know you won’t either. Together, we have the opportunity to build a grassroots movement that focuses sharply on key congressional districts and states, knitting a web of support that no opposition can unravel. Failure is impossible—provided we channel our frustration into a successful strategy, our anger into action.

I want to thank everyone who worked with me and others over this past year by writing to your Member of Congress about the House joint resolution and discharge petition. We were so close and next time we will put the new resolutions over the finish line. The only way to get things done is for both sides to come together. That’s the truth of it.

In the next Congress, I hope women and men - Republicans, Democrats and Independents - can find a way to work together. Not for themselves, but for something bigger. For equality. Equality of opportunity. Equality in the economy. Equality for women written into the Constitution where it belongs. Simple. Straightforward. Unshakable.

Over the next two years, we must organize and then elect enough Representatives and Senators to Congress to ensure the ERA is recognized, published, and shielded from judicial challenges. I ask you to join me in this effort. Dedicate a few hours each week or month to the cause. Send an email to team@sign4ERA.org and become an ERA Champion. We’ll get right back to you with action steps you

can begin taking immediately. Together, we will lay the groundwork for a future where equality is enshrined in our Constitution—a legacy no court can overturn.

For Equality, Carolyn Maloney, Member of Congress, 1993 – 2023

But just in the last week we heard from Equal Means Equal led by Kamala Lopez and Wendy Murphy, Esq. plus Arlaine Rocky, Esq., that something was not right in Washington D.C. Seems they learned that Ellie Smeal orchestrated a secret meeting with the Council on Women and Girls to persuade Biden NOT to proceed in any way with publishing the ERA. WOW! Did I hear this correctly? Now I am researching this information as it doesn’t bode well. We need to know if it is true of false.

I just love the reference by Lilly Gioia, our PA Legislation guru, that we are seeing Alice Paul again showing activism, marches, picketing and going full steam ahead for all women and men for equality. The Equal Means Equal is receiving press coverage like never before-New York Times and the Washington Post. There will be a March on December 28 in Washington D.C. right in front of the U.S. Archives. The 28^th is symbolic for the 28^thamendment. The PR for this event is amazing as billboards can be found everywhere sharing this upcoming event.

But I wish to end with the Message from our NFBPWC VP of Advocacy, Emily Vleck. She sums it up best that we each need to be doing something to see the ERA become our 28^th amendment into the Constitution. Please show your support for now is the TIME.

Public Relations

Kemi Oyebade — Sun, 01 Dec 2024 18:20:00 GMT

By: Nancy Werner
NFBPWC Public Relations Chair (2024-2026)

Engage with NFBPWC on Social Media

Organization Page:

Group Page:

Organization Page:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2l_ciIxLyvbu1dbBOsV9Tg

YouTube:

Instagram:

Nominations

Kemi Oyebade — Sun, 01 Dec 2024 18:15:00 GMT

By: Angie Jackson-Wilson
NFBPWC Nominations Chair 2024-2026

Finance

Kemi Oyebade — Sun, 01 Dec 2024 18:00:00 GMT

By: Sandy Thompson
NFBPWC Finance Chair, finance@nfbpwc.org

Do you own a business? Do you have a friend who owns a business? If so, this is the place to advertise.

Why should you advertise -

it can increase sales

it is a way to inform customers of a new product or service

remind customers about your products and encourage them to buy again

you can distinguish yourself from your competitors

explain your company values

we are an organization of women helping women, so we want to support one another

According to entrepreneur.com prices for advertising can range from $250 for a small ad in a local magazine up to around $500,000 for placement in a national magazine.

We are a National magazine and our prices are much better. If you are a member, you can place a quarter page ad for only $25.00. Even a full-page ad is only $85.00, a much better deal than the average for a magazine.

Our magazine is sent to approximately 518 people.

Digital Training

Kemi Oyebade — Sun, 01 Dec 2024 17:45:00 GMT

By: Teressa Gehrke
NFBPWC Digital Training Special Committee Chair

Looking for a few good women!

Are you tech savvy? Join the Digital Training Committee. Email DigitalTraining@nfbpwc.org, if you’re interested. The committee will support the chair with ongoing tech news through blogs, articles, and quarterly events.

Upcoming Digital Training

The next Digital Training event is Sunday, December 15, 2024, 5:00 pm MDT. This virtual event will cover Zoom features and putting your best face forward personally and professionally. Visit https://nfbpwc.org/event 5924848 to register.

Here are some resources to review before our event:

• Zoom Learning Center

• Zoom on YouTube

For additional technology assistance or questions, please email: DigitalTraining@nfbpwc.org.

Bylaws and Resolutions

Kemi Oyebade — Sun, 01 Dec 2024 17:40:00 GMT

By: Angie Jackson-Wilson & Varnell Kinnen
NFBPWC Bylaws and Resolution Chair & Co-Chair 2024-2026

LGBTQ+ Advocacy Team

Kemi Oyebade — Sun, 01 Dec 2024 17:20:00 GMT

By: Susan Oser
NFBPWC Advocacy Team LGBTQ+ Lead

LGBTQ+ Advocacy Team: Amanda L Collier, DC, PA Affiliate Chapter Member

How are you doing now that the election is finished, it’s time to really wake up to the reality of what is at stake for the LGBTQ+ community. However, there is a silver lining to consider:

20 trans & nonbinary Election Night winners you need to know - https://tinyurl.com/2ju9z3zc

So, while there is representation, the community needs allies more than ever.

With the holidays upon us, remember to extend your love and maybe your home. There are some in the community, especially the transgender sect who have walked away from family members who do not accept them for who they are now but hang on to who they were. Thus, there is no contact on both sides. Maybe you can be that newly chosen family member. Reach out to local community organizations for more information.

LGBTQ+ Dates for December -

December 1: World AIDS Day
December 8: Pansexual/Panromantic Pride Day
December 14: HIV Cure Research Day

Good LGBTQ+ News–

✓ Dems stand up for trans people amid election loss blame game – https://tinyurl.com/2y8k3fcc ✓ Judge rules in favor of two trans women who claimed military health plan was discriminatory - https://tinyurl.com/4993729z

✓ A message from organizations committed to advancing LGBTQ freedom beyond the 2024 elections – https://tinyurl.com/3nx6bjvu

Helplines

✓ The Trevor Project: (866) 488-7386

✓ National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: (800) 273-8255

✓ Ali Forney Day Center: (212) 206-0574

✓ Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Info: (800) 342-AIDS (2437), Spanish service: (800) 344-7432, TDD service for the deaf: (800) 243-7889, [10:00am till 10:00pm EST, Monday through Friday]

✓ The Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender National Hotline: (888) 843-4564

✓ The GLBT National Youth Talkline (youth serving youth through age 25): (800) 246-7743

✓ The National Runaway Switchboard: (800) RUNAWAY (786-2929)

Women’s March 2024 - May I Introduce you to some Friends?

Kemi Oyebade — Sun, 01 Dec 2024 17:15:00 GMT

By: Barbara Jean Maresca
PA Affiliate Member

November 2, 2024—a day to remember, as women marched across the nation to celebrate our strengths, compassion, and commitment to equality. Me? I journeyed to Washington, D.C., to join the thousands of Women who marched to the White House. It became all the more meaningful thanks to the incredible women who shared this experience with me, each contributing to this unforgettable moment in their own unique way.

• Molly McGregor. Santa Rosa, CA, co-founder and former Executive Director of the National Women’s History Project. Now known as the National Women’s History Alliance.

• Ruthie Danielsen. Washington State. Beekeeper

• Carol Comito. WA D.C. Women’s Advocate

• Rosita Stevens-Holsey. Author, activist & historian. Maryland

• Rev. Dr. Terri Ofori. Dean at Brooks School, Massachusetts

• Anna Pauline "Pauli" Murray (November 20, 1910 – July 1, 1985) was an American author, civil rights lawyer, legal scholar and theorist, and – later in life – an Episcopal priest.

Once I decided to join the Women’s March in Washington, D.C., on November 2, 2024, the next step was planning the trip. My treasured friend Ruthie Danielsen, flying in from Washington State, and I began searching for a place to stay. I also reconnected with my valued friend Carol Comito—a former BPW colleague from 25 years ago—who now lives in D.C. As it turned out, Carol graciously became our chauffeur for four days, adding her own charm and vigor to the adventure.

As plans unfolded, my friend Molly McGregor, introduced me to Rosita Stevens-Holsey, Executive Vice President of the new Board of Directors for the National Women’s History Alliance (NWHA).

Living near the D.C. area, Rosita was thrilled to join us for a tour of the Library of Congress. She also brought along her great-niece, Rev. Dr. Terri Ofori, who was visiting her aunt Rosita from Massachusetts and is also a resolute member of the National Women’s History Alliance Board.

Let me tell you—I was surrounded by four simply inspirational and motivating women for days!

Ruthie Danielsen, a beekeeper from Washington State, was a whirlwind of inspiration and energy. The last time I saw her was in Washington, D.C., when she was invited to speak at the Smithsonian. She had bought the first Giant Hornet nest eradicated in the U.S. in October 2020 and donated it to the Smithsonian, cementing her legacy as an enthusiastic advocate for environmental awareness. You should know that Ruthie carried a vial of water containing a 2-inch specimen of the Giant Hornet. She captivated everyone she met, sharing fascinating insights into this remarkable creature.

Ruthie Danielsen. https://www.smithsonianmag.com/smithsonian-institution/giant-murder-hornet has-landed-at-the-natural-history-museum-180980431/

https://backyardbeekeeping.iamcountryside.com/health-pests/eradication-through-education/

Carol Comito, originally from Philadelphia, retired as Arizona State University Professor, in advance of her move to WA DC., where she immersed herself in the action surrounding women’s history and advocacy. True to her passion, she took us to the celebrated Woman’s National Democratic Club (WNDC/The Whittmore House) ensuring our time in D.C. was nothing short of extraordinary. https://democraticwoman.org/museum-gallery

Since 1920, The WNDC/ The Whittmore House was a museum of decorative furniture, paintings, sculptures, and of course photographs of remarkable women—most notably Eleanor Roosevelt. I was awestruck as I stood in the very room where Mrs. Roosevelt broadcast her weekly messages to the nation. https://thenewpress.com/books/first-lady-of-radio

Carol, VP of Diversity and Outreach for the National Women’s Political Caucus, is dedicated to finding, recruiting, training and supporting women candidates for elected and appointed office.
While Carol’s current work is strictly volunteer, she is seeking – She is seeking a new career opportunity.
https://nwpc.org/carol-comito/
https://www.fhtimes.com/stories/original-liberal-ladies-leadership-moving-on,427410I conclude with 3 more inspiring women:

• Rosita Stevens-Holsey

• Reverend Dr. Pauli Murray

• Reverend Dr. Terri Ofori

Rosita Stevens-Holsey is a distinguished author, activist and educator. She is an invaluable, steadfast contributor, and board member of the Pauli Murray Center for History and Social Justice in Durham, North Carolina. As a historian and mentor, exemplifies the continuation of social reform.

Ms. Stevens-Holsey also serves as Executive Vice President of the National Women’s History Alliance (NWHA). Did I mention that Rosita is niece to the Reverend Dr. Pauli Murray, who was celebrated on the U.S. Quarter in 2024? Ms. Rosita generously gifted each of us said historic quarter.

Rosita Stevens-Holsey. http://www.preservingpaulimurray.com

https://www.womenshistory.org/about-us/our-people/rosita-stevens-holsey

Reverend Dr. Pauli Murray's (Nov. 20^th, 1910-Jully 1, 1985) groundbreaking work and enduring influence in the civil rights movement and legal protection for gender equality

Dr. Pauli was a poet, lawyer, activist, and the first Black woman ordained as an Episcopal priest. Her work continues to resonate deeply, especially with the release of the documentary My Name is Pauli Murray. This film offers a profound look into her contributions and struggles, illuminating the breadth of her impact.

Streaming below is the award winning 90-minute documentary entitled My Name is Pauli Murray.

Reverend Dr. Terri Ofori, niece to Rosita, & Dr. Pauli, carries on the role of historic change, as the Dean of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, as well as the Chaplain at the Brooks School, MA.

Reverend Dr. Terri Ofori’s ongoing dedication to diversity, equity and inclusion exemplifies the continuation of the family legacy of change and progress.
Dr. Ofori embodies the spirit of advocacy championed by her great-aunt, Pauli Murray, whose legacy continues to inspire change and equality.
Throughout her years of leadership and success, she served as chaplain at Harvard University, Brown University, Wellesley College, Emerson College, and Simmons College, and in 2022, she was inducted into the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Board of Preachers in Atlanta, Ga.

While this journey was phenomenal and created wonderful life-long memories, “We won’t go back.” President Biden must publish the Equal Rights Amendment before Donald Trump takes the White House in January 2025.

We must continue to demand ERANow, and resume mobilizing around the nation. We at NFBPWC are a coalition of empowered individuals, and we must ensure that all Americans have constitutional protections against gender-based discrimination.

The time is now! Are you in?

ERA Team

Kemi Oyebade — Sun, 01 Dec 2024 17:10:00 GMT

By: Nancy Werner
NFBPWC Advocacy Team ERA Lead (2022-2026)

EQUAL RIGHTS AMENDMENT

Advocacy –Equal Rights Amendment. “Equality of rights under the law shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or any State on account of sex” needs to be placed into our Constitution. While most states have laws prohibiting discrimination of any kind based on sex, proponents of the E.R.A. say laws can be reversed or eliminated. Having a Constitutional Amendment would cement those rights.

SIGN4ERA – May I encourage you AGAIN to take the time RIGHT NOW to

sign onto this link: http://www.sign4ERA.org. When you visit this site, there is much information given to you. Take time to read all the interesting articles. Need a program? Just take time to read and prepare.

And never forget to keep in touch with your U.S. Representatives and U.S. Senators using the NFBPWC “One Click.”

Supporting Women’s Progress Under the Trump Administration: NFBPWC’s Commitment

Kemi Oyebade — Wed, 06 Nov 2024 18:00:00 GMT

By: 2024-2026 Executive Committee

The National Federation of Business and Professional Women's Clubs (NFBPWC) acknowledges the re-election of President Donald Trump. As a nonpartisan organization dedicated to the advancement of working women, we will continue pushing for gender equity, economic opportunity, healthcare access, and workplace protections for women.

NFBPWC remains steadfast in our commitment to advancing the rights and opportunities of business and professional women. We encourage the Trump administration to prioritize issues that are essential to women’s economic security and career advancement. We will continue to advocate for initiatives and policies that strengthen economic security and equality for women.

Nominations

Kemi Oyebade — Fri, 01 Nov 2024 17:05:00 GMT

By: Angie Jackson-Wilson
NFBPWC Nominations Chair 2024-2026

The Nominations Committee's meeting on October 14, 2024, underscored a proactive approach to leadership recruitment within the organization. By engaging with affiliates to identify potential candidates, the committee is fostering a collaborative environment that is essential for organizational growth. This strategy not only diversifies the pool of

expertise but also ensures that leadership roles are filled with individuals who have a deep understanding of the organizations' unique perspectives and challenges. The committee's commitment to this process is commendable and will likely contribute to the robust governance and dynamic future of the organization. We are seeking volunteers to serve on the committee.

Finance

Kemi Oyebade — Fri, 01 Nov 2024 16:50:00 GMT

By: Sandy Thompson
NFBPWC Finance Chair, finance@nfbpwc.org

Do you own a business? Do you have a friend who owns a business? If so, this is the place to advertise.

Why should you advertise -

it can increase sales
it is a way to inform customers of a new product or service
remind customers about your products and encourage them to buy again
you can distinguish yourself from your competitors
explain your company values

We are an organization of women helping women, so we want to support one another

According to entrepreneur.com prices for advertising can range from $250 for a small ad in a local magazine up to around $500,000 for placement in a national magazine.

Our magazine is sent to approximately 518 people.

Please see the section on how to submit an ad and the price list.

Digital Training

Kemi Oyebade — Fri, 01 Nov 2024 16:35:00 GMT

By: Teressa Gehrke
NFBPWC Digital Training Special Committee Chair

Looking for a few good women!

Are you tech savvy? Join the Digital Training Committee. Email DigitalTraining@nfbpwc.org, if you’re interested. The committee will support the chair with ongoing tech news through blogs, articles, and quarterly events.

Upcoming Digital Training

Here are some resources to review before our event:

• Zoom Learning Center

• Zoom on YouTube

For additional technology assistance or questions, please

email: DigitalTraining@nfbpwc.org.

Bylaws and Resolutions

Kemi Oyebade — Fri, 01 Nov 2024 16:30:00 GMT

By: Angie Jackson-Wilson & Varnell Kinnen
NFBPWC Bylaws and Resolution Chair & Co-Chair 2024-2026

The Bylaws and Resolutions Committee's recent meeting on October 14, 2024, marks a significant step in the organization's commitment to aligning governing documents with the organization's mission. Over the next two years, this focus will be reiterated to reinforce the importance of consistency and collaboration among affiliates. The encouragement for each affiliate to nominate a representative to serve on the committee is a proactive approach to ensure diverse perspectives and inclusive decision-making. This initiative not only strengthens the committee's function but also empowers affiliates

to actively contribute to the organization's future. The collective effort will undoubtedly lead to a more robust and mission-focused governance structure.

LGBTQ+ Advocacy Team

Kemi Oyebade — Fri, 01 Nov 2024 16:15:00 GMT

By: Susan Oser
NFBPWC Advocacy Team LGBTQ+ Lead

LGBTQ+ Advocacy Team: Amanda L Collier, DC, PA Affiliate Chapter Member

It seems like national politics are dominating our news stations, papers, and social media feed. Not uncommon in a presidential election year, we can easily lose sight of how local actions are making a difference in the lives of our children.

School boards around the country are developing policies that restrict personal expressions, particularly if that person is of the LGBTQ+ community. Earlier this year, we saw Florida lawmakers work to ban pride flags in schools with FL HB901 (24R), by associating pride flags with a political stance. The well publicized “Don’t Say Gay” law restricts far more than flags throughout the state of Florida. Statewide and national laws often become well known news stories, but what about rules made directly at the school board level. These restrictive policies rarely make news, and few people attend local school board meetings on a regular basis.

In my small town of Berwick, PA, politics are generally conservative, and our recent school board election proved that. Election posters spouted sayings like “Parental Rights,” “Don’t Experiment On Our Children,” and others pushing for removal of Critical Race Theory from our schools. (There is no class in our schools that currently teaches Critical Race Theory.) For the last 3 months, The Berwick School Board has been debating a rule to remove all flags from the classroom, except for the American flag, flags for state and local governments, the Armed Forces and school sanctioned activities. Any other flags would be prohibited on school grounds.

Despite a robust turnout of parents and community members speaking against the rule, it passed the board on Monday, October 15th with only two members voting against the measure. It is important to note that one of the two nay votes was because the measure didn’t go far enough by banning pride flags on cars in the parking lot as well.

Although Northeastern Pennsylvania is known for being a conservative area, our more progressive areas around Philadelphia are not immune to these measures. Two schools in Bucks County, Central Bucks and Penridge, faced lawsuits after banning Pride flags in the last two years.

So, what can we do to support our LGBTQ+ youth and let them know that they are safe in our communities?

1. Join a local parent’s group. Even if you are not a parent, many of these groups need allies and volunteers. If you can’t make every meeting, you can volunteer at special events or even just share the events on social media. Find an organization near you at pflag.orgor https://www.strongfamilyalliance.org/

2. Vote in your local school board elections. They may not make national news, but they make policies that affect our youth.

3. Go to a local school board meeting. Just like all politicians, school board members work for us and should be held accountable for their actions.

4. Consider flying a pride flag in your place of employment. If you don’t have the option of hanging a flag, you can wear a pin to let everyone know you are an ally.

Sources:

Central Bucks moves forward with policy censoring classroom decor and discussions — despite federal investigation - https://whyy.org/articles/central-bucks-school-district-pride-flag-ban-lgbtq-advocacy policy-321/

Why We’re Taking Legal Action - Again - Against the Central Bucks School District https://www.aclupa.org/en/news/why-were-taking-legal-action-again-against-central-bucks-school district

HB 901: Display of Flags by Governmental Entities - https://flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2024/901#:~:text=Display%20of%20Flags%20by%20Governmental %20Entities%3B%20Prohibits%20certain%20governmental%20entities,States%20flag%20in%20certain% 20position.

New Berwick policy bans Pride flags in school, causes outrage among LGBTQ allies - https://www.wvia.org/news/local/2024-10-15/new-berwick-policy-bans-pride-flags-in-school causes-outrage-among-lgbtq-allies

LGBTQ+ Dates for November –

November is Trans Awareness Month

November 6 - Transgender Parent Day

November 8 - Intersex Day of Remembrance

November 13-19 - Trans Awareness Week

November 20 - Transgender Day of Remembrance

Good LGBTQ+ News–

800 service members kicked out under DADT just got discharges upgraded to honorable - https://tinyurl.com/mst5cuwp

These 5 LGBTQ+ business leaders are transforming the world - https://tinyurl.com/3bwaenzm

21 transgender and nonbinary politicians making history in state legislatures - https://tinyurl.com/yc37bece

Helplines

The Trevor Project: (866) 488-7386

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: (800) 273-8255

Ali Forney Day Center: (212) 206-0574

The Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender National Hotline: (888) 843-4564

The GLBT National Youth Talkline (youth serving youth through age 25): (800) 246-7743 The National Runaway Switchboard: (800) RUNAWAY (786-2929)

ERA Team

Kemi Oyebade — Fri, 01 Nov 2024 16:10:00 GMT

By: Nancy Werner
NFBPWC Advocacy Team ERA Lead (2022-2026)

EQUAL RIGHTS AMENDMENT – A Special Report from Patricia Rayl

Today we are honored to have a report from Patricia Rayl who has a firsthand experience story to share with us. Please take time to read this excellent review.

NFBPWC members Susan Murphy and I were in Washington DC recently as part of the “Project Sentinel.”

We came to Washington D.C. and specifically the White House, to protest in support of the Equal Rights Amendment. I am sure most of you know, that the Equal Rights Amendment was big news in the1970s and ‘80s. But you might not know the details about why it’s not already the 28^th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

People may remember the name of Alice Paul, and her struggle in support of U.S. women’s rights to vote. After the 19^th Amendment was codified into law, she realized that women still didn’t have equality under the

Constitution. She created the Equal Rights Amendment in 1923, and it was first introduced to Congress in 1924.

The amendment states simply: “Equality of rights under the law shall not be denied or abridged by the United State or by any state on account of sex.”

The ERA picked up steam during the women’s movement of the 1970’s, and I was 9 years old when Michigan passed it in 1972.

I watched with dismay as the effort fizzled in the 1980’s because of the deadline placed into the preamble of the amendment. Then, the Congressional Compensation Act of 1789 was ratified as the 27^th Amendment to the Constitution. That meant there was no actual deadline for ratification.

Support was rallied, and the final three states needed to pass the Equal Rights Amendment-Nevada, Illinois and Virginia being the last in January 2020. Unfortunately, this was during the Trump Administration, and then Attorney General Bill Barr instructed the National Archivist not to publish the 28^th Amendment, which is the last step in making it official. The Equal Rights Amendment has been in limbo ever since.

Recently, the American Bar Association dedicated time and scholarship to look at the issues holding up the Equal Rights Amendment and issued a statement that the ERA is already law of the land. The publishing by the National Archivist is an administrative step, and the

Equal Rights Amendment stands as ratified.

The U.S. Constitution does not have any statement about time limit preambles, nor is there any support in U.S. law for a state to withdraw its amendment support once it has passed.

The Project Sentinel effort was to stand, as the suffragettes did in front of President Woodrow Wilson’s White House, but this time in support of the 28^th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. A group of women from around the country gathered with signs to Joe Biden to instruct the National Archivist to publish the ERA as the 28^th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

You, too, can text President Biden’s office at (302) 404-0880. I do daily!

Patricia Rayl, BPW &AAUW member

SIGN4ERA – May I encourage you AGAIN to take the time RIGHT NOW to sign onto this link: http://www.sign4ERA.org. When you visit this site, there is much information given to you. Take time to read all the interesting articles. Need a program? Just take time to read and prepare.

And never forget to keep in touch with your U.S. Representatives and U.S. Senators using the NFBPWC “One Click.”

Public Relations

Kemi Oyebade — Fri, 01 Nov 2024 05:10:00 GMT

By: Nancy Werner
NFBPWC Public Relations Chair (2024-2026)

Engage with NFBPWC on Social Media

Organization Page:

Group Page:

Organization Page:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2l_ciIxLyvbu1dbBOsV9Tg

YouTube:

Instagram:

Public Relations

Kemi Oyebade — Tue, 01 Oct 2024 17:05:00 GMT

By: Nancy Werner
NFBPWC Public Relations Chair (2024-2026)

Engage with NFBPWC on Social Media

Organization Page:

Group Page:

Organization Page:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2l_ciIxLyvbu1dbBOsV9Tg

YouTube:

Instagram:

October Highlights in US Women’s History

➢ October 3, 1904 – Mary McLeod Bethune opens her first school for African-American students in Daytona Beach, Florida

➢ October 4, 1976 – Barbara Walters becomes the first woman co-anchor of the evening news (at ABC) ➢ October 4, 1993 – Ruth Bader Ginsburg joins the U.S. Supreme Court as its second woman Justice ➢ October 8, 1993 – Toni Morrison becomes the first African American woman to win the Nobel Prize for Literature

➢ October 10, 1983 – Dr. Barbara McClintock receives the Nobel Prize for Medicine for her discovery in genetics about mobile genetic elements

➢ October 11, 1984 – Dr. Kathryn D. Sullivan is the first U.S. woman astronaut to “walk” in space during Challenger flight

➢ October 15, 1948 – Dr. Frances L. Willoughby is the first woman doctor in the regular U.S. Navy ➢ October 16, 1916 – Margaret Sanger opens the U.S.’s first birth control clinic in Brooklyn, New York ➢ October 23, 1910 – Blanche Stuart Scott is the first American woman pilot to make a public flight ➢ October 24, 1956 – Reverend Margaret Towner is the first woman ordained a minister in the Presbyterian Church

➢ October 28, 1958 – Mary Roebling is the first woman director of a stock exchange (American Stock Exchange) Source: https://nationalwomenshistoryalliance.org/this-month-in-womens-history/october/Happy 79^th Anniversary to the United Nations

As World War II was about to end in 1945, nations were in ruins, and the world wanted peace. Representatives of 50 countries gathered at the United Nations Conference on International Organization in San Francisco, California from 25 April to 26 June 1945. For the next two months, they proceeded to draft and then sign the UN Charter, which created a new international organization, the United Nations, which, it was hoped, would prevent another world war like the one they had just lived through.

Four months after the San Francisco Conference ended, the United Nations officially began, on 24 October 1945, when it came into existence after its Charter had been ratified by China, France, the Soviet Union, the United Kingdom, the United States and by a majority of other signatories

To Read More about the History of the United Nations and its Milestones, go to: https://www.un.org/en/about-us/history-of-the-un

Nominations

Kemi Oyebade — Tue, 01 Oct 2024 17:00:00 GMT

By: Angie Jackson-Wilson
NFBPWC Nominations Chair 2024-2026

Call for Leadership Nominations

Which of these offices will have your name placed in nomination?

• For the Office of President ____________________________?

• For the Office of Vice President-Membership ____________________________?

• For the Office of Vice President-Advocacy ____________________________?

• For the Office of Secretary ____________________________?

• For the Office of Treasurer ____________________________?

• For the Office of Young BPW ____________________________?

The nominating committee will confirm that all candidates meet the qualifications as outlined in Article X, Section 7 of the bylaws.

It is not too early to begin the process!

Digital Training

Kemi Oyebade — Tue, 01 Oct 2024 16:35:00 GMT

By: Teressa Gehrke NFBPWC Digital Training Special Committee Chair

Looking for a few good women!

Are you tech savvy? Looking to get more involved with NFBPWC?

Email DigitalTraining@nfbpwc.org, if you’re interested. The committee will support the chair with ongoing tech news through monthly blogs, articles, and quarterly events.

Upcoming Digital Training

The next Digital Training event coincides with National Cybersecurity Awareness Month. We will meet on Sunday, October 20^th at 5pm MT.

Teressa will discuss MFA, known as Multifactor Authentication, a second layer of online defense in protecting your online data and identity.

https://nfbpwc.wildapricot.org/event-5843112

Bylaws and Resolutions

Kemi Oyebade — Tue, 01 Oct 2024 16:30:00 GMT

By: Angie Jackson-Wilson & Varnell Kinnen, Co-Chair
NFBPWC Bylaws and Resolution Chair 2024-2026

The Bylaws and Resolutions Committee plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity and functionality of our Federation.

The committee works with the Federation and its affiliates to draft, review, and update bylaws. This collaboration ensures that all governing documents are aligned with the organization’s mission.

The committee is responsible for reviewing proposed resolutions and presenting them to the membership for consideration. This process involves thorough evaluation and discussion to ensure that resolutions are beneficial and in the best interest of the Federation.

To effectively manage our responsibilities, the committee aims to hold meetings once a quarter, starting in October. These meetings will provide a platform to discuss any areas of concern, propose amendments, and ensure that all bylaws and resolutions are up-to-date and relevant.

LGBTQ+ Advocacy Team

Kemi Oyebade — Tue, 01 Oct 2024 16:10:00 GMT

By: Susan Oser
NFBPWC Advocacy Team LGBTQ+ Lead

October is LGBTQ+ History Month as well as Transgender empowerment month. Please take the time to learn about this community and how you can be a good ally. I have a few example links to get you started:

10 things you can do to be an ally - https://straightforequality.org/resource/10-things you-can-do-to-be-an-ally/

10 things you can do to be an ally to people who are trans* - https://straightforequality.org/resource/10- things-trans-ally/

When Someone Comes Out: A PFLAGers Guide to Demonstrating Support and Acceptance Recording & Training Toolkit - https://pflag.org/resource/pao-whensomeonecomesout/

Supporting Trans and Nonbinary Students: Speaking Up and Speaking Out - https://tinyurl.com/5ac5fcvk

I am looking for contributing writers or anyone who wishes to help with the LGBTQ+ liaison community and be on my team to help with articles. Next month, I will have a contribution from a member in Pennsylvania. What about you? What LGBTQ+ stories are important in your area? Please submit to me at soser@nfbpwc.org.

Special PSA –

September was Suicide Prevention Month. However, just because the month has ended does not mean the awareness doesn’t. Around the holidays, it’s the most difficult for LGBTQ+ teens and other individuals who are trying to find love an acceptance within their own family and group of friends. And when they can’t find it or as a last result…well, you know what might be chosen. The following are a list of resources to keep and share in your community:

Helplines

➢ The Trevor Project: (866) 488-7386

➢ National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: (800) 273-8255

➢ Ali Forney Day Center: (212) 206-0574

➢ Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Info: (800) 342-AIDS (2437), Spanish service: (800) 344-7432, TDD service for the deaf: (800) 243-7889, [10:00am till 10:00pm EST, Monday through Friday]

➢ The Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender National Hotline: (888) 843-4564 ➢ The GLBT National Youth Talkline (youth serving youth through age 25): (800) 246-7743 ➢ The National Runaway Switchboard: (800) RUNAWAY (786-2929)

LGBTQ+ Dates for October –

❖ October LGBT History Month, Trans Empowerment Month

❖ October 8: International Lesbian Day

❖ October 11 National Coming Out Day

❖ October 15: National Latinx HIV/AIDS Awareness Day

❖ October 19: National LGBT Center Awareness Day

❖ October 20 International Pronoun Day

❖ October 21 Spirit Day

❖ October 24 Asexual Awareness Week

❖ October 26 Intersex Awareness Day

Good LGBTQ+ News–

✓ Sarah McBride just won her primary & is likely to become the first trans member of Congress - https://tinyurl.com/ybdn3y7v

✓ Transgender lives and joy are the center of new ACLU campaign 'Freedom to Be - https://www.advocate.com/news/transgender-teen-joy-arizona

✓ Uncover the hidden queer history of Old Hollywood with these streaming docs - https://tinyurl.com/3hjrc92m

ERA Team

Kemi Oyebade — Tue, 01 Oct 2024 16:05:00 GMT

By: Nancy Werner
NFBPWC Advocacy Team ERA Lead (2022-2026)

EQUAL RIGHTS AMENDMENT – Updates around the United States

Advocacy –Equal Rights Amendment. “Equality of rights under the law shall not

be denied or abridged by the United States or any State on account of sex” needs

to be placed into our Constitution. While most states have laws prohibiting

discrimination of any kind based on sex, proponents of the E.R.A. say laws can be

reversed or eliminated. Having a Constitutional Amendment would cement those

rights.

May I again applaud the NFBPWC for the Women’s Equality Day-August 24,

2024. It was an extraordinary event for our organization. Kathy Telban, Ohio, created this event by finding 3 outstanding speakers on the Equal Rights Amendment. With the help of Emily VanVleck, our Vice President of Advocacy and NFBPWC President Barbara Bozeman, it was an informative and inspiring zoom webinar. We heard from Tina Cassidy, author, of Mr. President, How Long Must We Wait, to Wendy J. Murphy, Esq. who has provided us with the history of the ERA in Congress and what she has done to bring it in front of our judicial system and then to Kamala Lopez, who wrote and directed the video called Equal Means Equal.

But on August 26, 2024, the National Women’s History Alliance presented their version of Equality Day with speakers such as Incoming Director Dr. Jill Zinckgraf, President Martha Wheelock, and Molly MacGregor. Starting back to 1985, they shared what their work has presented and provided to the story of women’s suffrage.

But now let’s do an overview of the work of pushing the ERA to be our 28th Amendment. Let’s start with Carolyn Maloney, President of the NY NOW group, who has made the “Equality Bus” a traveling ERA promoter. She is working on the needed U.S. Representatives of New York and one in PA to sign on to the House Bill. She was just in lower Bucks County, PA, trying to get Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick to sign on. As of this date, Fitzpatrick will not budge. But this is where persistence is the key to our efforts. He is running for reelection.

Now the ERA Coalition is having some trouble working together. Although they meet once a month, the time spent together needs to be more productive. Hoping their upcoming meeting will provide us with more direction. Everyone who attends wishes to do something to help.

But we are learning about a group called red, wine and blue that is hitting our PA Commonwealth with energy and enthusiasm. They provide many interesting programs on zoom. The dynamics is awesome. But to get them as a speaker for our PA Affiliate is on the backburner as they are in DEMAND.

We have the best news that Feminist Unfinished just finished a week in front of the White House portraying the Sentinels of the early century. I don’t wish to take anything away from Pattie Rayl of Michigan for she and 2 friends were able to participate. They drove to Washington D.C., were able to stay at the headquarters of the group, stand for a few hours with their signs and for a few days. I will ask Patti to share what the experience was like for our next issue. How exciting for Patti and her friends to be part of this event!

Then we have the Alice Paul House who threw a huge gala on Thursday night, September 26, at the Constitution Center, Philadelphia. Accolades were given to all who have helped with the work of Alice Paul and to all the students who are attending their leadership academies. So proud that we took the time to visit both the Alice Paul House and the Constitutional Center during our Biennial Conference in July. I feel that we are right there in the center of our ERA framework.

We also heard about the U.S. Bar Association insisting that the ERA has passed and should be in the U.S. Constitution. But what about this declaration?

During this Presidential Campaign, I have heard nothing about the ERA specifically. Nothing during the Debate. Nothing from the Candidates. Why is it not being addressed?

Now one of our fellow members is Linda Wilson, CA member. Quite the historian of our NFBPWC and many historical facts. Now she and I have discussed what is the best way to place the ERA into the Constitution. Take a look at the history of the 27 other amendments and all have come through our Congressional process.

I love my Pennsylvania. I am working like I never have before in this Presidential race. Never seen working at the polls as a might, it is now a must. Participating in the phone banks for the candidates who will support our women’s rights is another must. Every day we hear Pennsylvania is the deciding state of this upcoming election sure is pressure. I remember 2016 and so do many of you. May I challenge you to do the same work in some form or another for this election?

Follow up

Don’t forget Kamala is promoting the “Final Impact.” She would like us all to take a photo as we talk on the phone and send it to the following address. https://finalimpact.org/All the information that you need can be found at this site.

And never forget to keep in touch with your U.S. Representatives and U.S. Senators using the NFBPWC “One Click.”

Meet the Game Changer from Thailand: Chularat (Toyting) Israngkool Na Ayutthaya

Kemi Oyebade — Tue, 24 Sep 2024 19:03:52 GMT

By: Chularat (Toyting) Israngkool Na Ayutthaya

Meet the Game Changer from Thailand: Chularat (Toyting) Israngkool Na Ayutthaya

Note: After three (3) years as IFBPW 1st Vice President UN (IFBPW 2021-2024), Chularat (best known as Toyting) is not running for any position, and thus can be celebrated for her work, that of her club, and the clubs in her region.

Toyting is a member of The Federation of Business and Professional Women's Associations of Thailand Under the Royal Patronage of Her Majesty the Queen. The President of BPW Thailand is Khunying Natthika Wattanavekin Angubolkul.

In her own words: Throughout my time with IFBPW, I have had the privilege of being mentored by Dr. Chonchanok Viravan, fondly known as Dr. Nok, who served as BPWI's international president from 2005 to 2008. Her wisdom and guidance have been invaluable, and her words resonate deeply with me: "BPW is volunteer work, but once you commit, you have to do your best as a first priority because you are doing it for a better life for women and girls." This philosophy has driven my commitment to the organization and the communities we serve.

My journey with IFBPW has been deeply fulfilling, culminating in my becoming one of the UN representatives for IFBPW at UNESCAP (United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific) in Bangkok, Thailand. As a UN representative for many years, I engaged with vital issues affecting women and girls across the region, advocating for policies that promote their rights and well-being.

In 2021, amidst the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, I was honored to be elected virtually as the 1st Vice President for UN matters and Chair of the UN Standing Committee. This milestone not only marked a significant step in my leadership journey but also solidified my dedication to empowering women and girls globally. I have worked tirelessly to ensure that our initiatives address the pressing needs of women in various sectors, including education, health, and economic development.

As we move forward, I remain committed to fostering collaboration among BPW affiliates and strengthening our voice at the UN. Together, we can create a more equitable and just world for all women and girls, ensuring that their rights are upheld and their voices heard. I look forward to continuing this important work and making a meaningful impact on the lives of those we serve.

The Role of IFBPW VP UN

The VP UN collaborates with UN representatives, the UN Standing Committee, various NGOs, and UN agencies, including member states.

IFBPW was among the first groups of NGOs to gain consultative status with the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) in 1947. This achievement was facilitated through the foresight of Esther Hymer (1898–2001), then the BPW International UN representative in New York who attended the founding of the United Nations.

Today IFBPW has 28 UN representatives located at various UN offices around the world, including New York, Geneva, Vienna, Paris, Bangkok, Rome (at UN HQ NYC, UN HQ Geneva, UN ESCAP, FAO, and more). Additionally, there are nineteen members of the IFBPW UN Standing Committee divided into four groups focused on education and advocacy, CSW, Human Rights, and CEDAW. They work tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure that our goals are included in the work of the UN.

The main representatives, along with all IFBPW UN representatives, report to the VP UN at the end of each year to prepare the quadrennial report (every four years) that is submitted to ECOSOC in collaboration with UN standing committees. They also prepare written and oral annual statements for the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW). These reflect input from the committees, executive regions, projects, and experts who select aspects of the UNCSW theme relevant to our current activities and observations. More information is available at: BPW International & United Nations - BPW International

The Asia and Pacific region

Home to twenty-seven national BPW affiliates, this region is coordinated by Dr. Narudee Kiengsiri, and is a vibrant network engaged in a variety of activities aimed at empowering women and promoting gender equality. We maintain strong connections with our members through a dedicated WhatsApp group, allowing for real-time updates, discussions, and collaboration on initiatives across the region.

Dr. Narudee's insightful report highlights our achievements and ongoing projects, and includes pictures showcasing our events and the dedication of our members.

BPW Thailand Activities

On the auspicious occasion of Her Majesty the Queen Mother of Thailand's 90th birthday on August 12, BPW Thailand proudly launched an initiative dedicated to honoring and expanding upon Her Majesty's royal aspirations, focused on preserving and developing the invaluable cultural heritage and wisdom surrounding hand-woven Thai silk. Together, we honor Her Majesty’s legacy while fostering a sustainable and prosperous future for all.

Our primary goal is to promote the widespread use of Thai fabrics, not only to celebrate our rich cultural traditions but also generates income for local communities. In encouraging the use of Thai silk in daily life and for special occasions, we aim to stimulate the local economy sustainably across all regions of Thailand. In support, we invited our members and the wider community to share pictures of themselves wearing Thai silk, thereby raising awareness and appreciation for our unique textiles while showcasing their beauty and versatility further increasing demand.

Critically, our initiative increases the income of women in rural areas who produce hand-woven silk. By providing training and resources, we empower rural women to enhance their skills and create high-quality products sold locally and internationally, contributing to the overall economic development of their communities.

BPW Thailand Fundraising

BPW Thailand recently organized a remarkable gala dinner attended by Their Majesties the King and Queen, who graciously presided over the event. This prestigious occasion brought together members of the community, dignitaries, and supporters dedicated to fostering growth and development within our nation. The proceeds were allocated towards the construction of a Dragon Gate in Bangkok. This stunning architectural feature not only serves as a captivating photo opportunity for tourists but also enhances the cultural landscape of the city. By creating a landmark that embodies the rich traditions of Thailand, our aims are to boost tourism, attract domestic and international visitors, and generate additional revenue for local businesses.

In addition to its aesthetic appeal, the Dragon Gate project represents a broader vision of sustainable development. By investing in this initiative, we contribute to the economic revitalization of the area and provide new opportunities for local artisans, vendors, and service providers. The anticipated increase in foot traffic will benefit surrounding businesses, fostering a vibrant community atmosphere.

As we move forward, BPW Thailand remains committed to empowering women and enhancing the quality of life for all citizens. We believe that projects like the Dragon Gate not only beautify our city but also create lasting impacts that benefit future generations. Together, we continue to build a prosperous and culturally rich Thailand.

“Giving Women a Second Chance” Project

The “Giving Women a Second Chance” project is a transformative initiative that empowers women in prison by equipping them with essential skills and knowledge. We teach approximately thirty subjects that cover a wide range of topics, including vocational training, financial literacy, health education, and personal development. This comprehensive curriculum prepares these women for their reintegration into society, enabling them to build successful and sustainable careers upon their release. In collaboration with various Ministries and organizations, BPW Thailand provides participants with completion certificates. These credentials not only validate their newfound skills but also enhance their employability, giving them a stronger foothold in the job market.

Our dedicated team of trainers foster a supportive learning environment that encourages personal growth and resilience. Our intent is to provide valuable knowledge and practical skills to break the cycle of reoffending and empower the women to lead fulfilling lives. The project is about restoring hope and dignity to women who have faced significant challenges. Every woman deserves the opportunity for a fresh start.

Financial Discipline Initiative

In Thailand, some 40 million people grapple with debt, a significant issue that stems from a lack of financial discipline, inadequate planning, and ineffective saving habits. This widespread debt crisis has far-reaching consequences, affecting not only individual families but also organizations, and as families drown in debt, the ripple effect hinders the economic and social development of the entire country.

BPW Thailand collaborates with five partner organizations from both the public and private sectors, in the **Financial Discipline Creation Project**, aimed at addressing personal borrowing and household debt issues, mitigating their impact on society, and instilling financial discipline among individuals and families. By promoting financial literacy, the project empowers individuals to manage their finances wisely, leading to healthier, debt-free lives and contributing to a more robust national economy.

This mentorship-based learning model is based on trained mentors who disseminate financial knowledge and provide personalized advice to members within their organizations. The Stock Exchange of Thailand plays a pivotal role by leading training sessions, offering guidance, and supporting the development of educational resources, such as the "Happy Money for Financial Happiness" training manual, tailored for women’s groups across the country. This training equips participants with the tools to plan their expenses, manage debt effectively, and develop a deeper understanding of the importance of saving. By supporting responsible financial behavior, the Financial Discipline Creation Project enhances the financial well-being of participants and strengthens the efficiency and effectiveness of organizations, paving the way for long-term, sustainable success across Thailand.

BPW Thailand's Annual Business and Professional Women Awards

Each year, BPW Thailand proudly presents the Business and Professional Women Award of Thailand to outstanding members and non-members who have made remarkable contributions in their respective fields. Objectives:

1. Recognition of Excellence

The award seeks to identify and honor Thai women entrepreneurs and professionals who have achieved success in their business or professional careers, because of their accomplishments and for upholding high ethical standards. This makes them exemplary role models, they serve as a beacon of inspiration for others to follow, encouraging women to aspire for excellence in both their personal and professional lives.

2. Support and Encouragement.

By celebrating the accomplishments of these exceptional women, BPW Thailand fosters a culture of support and encouragement for Thai women in business and professional careers. The award boosts the confidence and morale of women, acknowledging their hard work, dedication, and perseverance. It also serves as a reminder that their efforts are recognized and valued, further motivating them to continue breaking barriers and achieving greater heights in their respective industries.

3. Enhancing Public Image

One of the key goals of the award is to promote a positive image of women entrepreneurs and professionals in the eyes of the public. By showcasing these women for the business world and society, BPW Thailand aims to shift perceptions and emphasize the vital role women play in economic growth and community development. These awards highlight the leadership, innovation, and commitment of Thai women, helping to create a more inclusive and empowering environment for future generations.

BPW Thailand uses this annual recognition to celebrate exceptional women for their achievements and contributions. The award ceremony honors individual success and serves as a collective celebration of the strength, resilience, and talent of Thai women. Our Award is a symbol of empowerment and progress and allows BPW Thailand to inspire others to pursue their dreams with determination and integrity. The award contributes to the broader mission of BPW: to empower women to create a better world by enabling them to realize their full potential and to lead with purpose in their professions and communities. We see how the award continues to inspire future generations of women to strive for excellence while fostering an environment of mutual support, respect, and recognition for women in business and professional sectors across Thailand.

Climate Change and Flood Relief Efforts

BPW Thailand pulled together to seek support during a donations drive aimed at assisting BPW members affected by the recent floods in Northern Thailand. The devastating floods, exacerbated by the impacts of climate change, have severely impacted many families, leaving them in urgent need of assistance and support. Homes were destroyed, communities displaced, and livelihoods disrupted livelihoods - particularly in rural areas where many of our members reside. These families are facing significant challenges, including a lack of access to basic necessities such as food, clean water, and medical care. Contributions are used for essential aid, including food supplies, temporary shelter, clothing, and medical assistance for those in dire need.

BPW is also focused on long-term recovery strategies to help our members rebuild their lives and communities. This includes providing access to resources that will enable them to restore their businesses and livelihoods.

In Closing

I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to BPW National President Barbara Bozeman and BPW New York President Nermin Ahmad for the incredible opportunity to share the wisdom and stories of BPW Thailand and the Asia and Pacific Region. Your support and encouragement have been invaluable in amplifying our voice and promoting our initiatives.

As I recount our experiences and achievements, I am reminded of the resilience and dedication of our members who work tirelessly to empower women and foster communities across the region. From educational programs to advocacy efforts, BPW Thailand is deeply committed to creating a positive impact in the lives of women and girls.

I hope that this narrative serves not only to inform but also to inspire our BPW members in the USA and around the world. By sharing our successes and challenges, we can foster a spirit of collaboration and solidarity, encouraging each other to strive for our common goals. Together, we can learn from one another, adapt best practices, and build a stronger network that uplifts women globally.

Let us continue to share our stories, celebrate our achievements, and work collectively towards a brighter future for women everywhere. Thank you once again for this opportunity, and I look forward to our continued collaboration and shared success.

Chularat (Toyting) Israngkool Na Ayutthaya

Public Relations

Kemi Oyebade — Mon, 02 Sep 2024 17:30:00 GMT

By: Nancy Werner
NFBPWC Public Relations Chair (2024-2026)

Engage with NFBPWC on Social Media

Organization Page:

Group Page:

Organization Page:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2l_ciIxLyvbu1dbBOsV9Tg

YouTube:

Instagram:

(Source: https://blogs.loc.gov/manuscripts/2022/08/from-suffrage-day-towomens-equality-day/)

September Highlights in US Women’s History

➢ September 12, 1910 – Alice Stebbins Wells, a former social worker, becomes the first woman police officer with arrest powers in the U.S. (Los Angeles, CA)

➢ Sept. 13, 1994: Clinton signs the Violence Against Women Act as part of the Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act, providing funding for programs that help victims of domestic violence, rape, sexual assault, stalking and other gender-related violence.

➢ September 14, 1964 – Helen Keller receives the Presidential Medal of Freedom along with 4 other women: Dr. Lena Edwards, Lynn Fontainne, Dr. Helen Taussig, and Leontyne Price

➢ September 14, 1975 – Elizabeth Ann Seton is canonized and becomes the first American-born saint, founded the first U.S. Order of the Sisters of Charity of St. Joseph

➢ September 20, 1973 – Billie Jean King defeats Bobby “No-Broad-Can-Beat-Me” Riggs in the battle of the sexes tennis match

➢ September 25, 1981 – Sandra Day O’Connor is sworn in as the first woman U.S. Supreme Court Justice ➢ September 26, 1971 – Rep. Shirley Chisholm (D-New York) announces she will enter the Democratic presidential primaries

➢ September 26, 1973 – Capt. Lorraine Potter, an American Baptist minister, becomes the first woman U.S. Air Force chaplain

➢ September 29, 1988 – Stacy Allison becomes first American woman to reach the summit of Mt. Everest

Sources: https://www.history.com/topics/womens-history/womens-history-us-timeline

https://nationalwomenshistoryalliance.org/this-month-in-womens-history/september/

➢ September 18^th is International Equal Pay Day (A/RES/74/142)

Resolution adopted by the General Assembly on 18 December 2019

[on the report of the Third Committee (A/74/399)]

74/142. International Equal Pay Day

The General Assembly,

Reaffirming the obligation of all States to promote and protect all human rights and fundamental freedoms, and also that all forms of discrimination, including discrimination against women and girls, are contrary to the Charter of the United Nations, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women, the Convention on the Rights of the Child, the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, the

International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination and other relevant human rights instruments, Reaffirming also the commitment made to gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls, contained in the outcome documents of relevant international conferences and summits, in particular the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action adopted at the Fourth World Conference on Women and the outcomes of the twenty-third special session of the General Assembly, entitled “Women 2000: gender equality, development and peace for the twenty-first century”

Upcoming Dates in Women’s History to Note for October:

➢ October 11^th is International Day of the Girl Child (A/RES/66/170)

➢ October 24^th is United Nations Day (A/RES/168 (II))

➢ October is Health Literacy, Breast Cancer, Domestic Violence, and HIV/AIDS Awareness Month.

Nominations

Kemi Oyebade — Mon, 02 Sep 2024 17:25:00 GMT

By: Angie Jackson-Wilson
NFBPWC Nominations Chair 2024-2026

We are actively seeking members with the skills and experience necessary to build a pool of future candidates for elective office. The growth and success of our organization depend on it.

According to NFBPWC, Inc Bylaws, Article X, Section 7: To be eligible to run for office, a candidate must have served the National Federation in an elected or appointed capacity at the national, state, or affiliate chapter/club level for at least one year prior to the election.

For detailed requirements of each office, please visit the Resource Libraryon our website. Additionally, we are seeking members to serve on the Nominating Committee.

Finance

Kemi Oyebade — Mon, 02 Sep 2024 17:05:00 GMT

By: Sandy Thompson
NFBPWC Finance Chair, finance@nfbpwc.org

DO YOU LIKE MONEY?

We have not had an active Finance Committee for several years. This term we would like to have an active committee. The committee is responsible for developing the budget, fundraising and overseeing the finances of the Federation.

We will be looking to seek grants and other sponsors for the organization. If you have experience in writing grants or seeking sponsorships, then please lend us your expertise.

We are looking for members. If you like money and would like to help the Federation be financially sound, then please join the committee.

Please contact me at finance@nfbpwc.org. if you would like to be part of this committee.

Digital Training

Kemi Oyebade — Mon, 02 Sep 2024 16:55:00 GMT

By: Teressa Gehrke
NFBPWC Digital Training Special Committee Chair

Looking for a few good women! Teressa Gehrke will continue as the Digital Training Chair for the next term. Are you tech savvy? She’s looking for a few good women to join the Digital Training Committee. Email DigitalTraining@nfbpwc.org, if you’re interested.

The committee will support the chair with ongoing tech news through monthly blogs, articles, and quarterly events. MFA? It’s not a bad word. The next Digital Training event coincides with National Cybersecurity Awareness Month. We will meet on Sunday, October 20th at 5pm MT. Teressa will discuss MFA, known as Multifactor Authentication. It is also called 2FA (Two-Factor Authentication or Two-Step Authentication). You can register at: https://nfbpwc.wildapricot.org/event 5843112

For additional assistance or questions, please email:

DigitalTraining@nfbpwc.org.

Why is it Important to Vote?

Kemi Oyebade — Mon, 02 Sep 2024 16:30:00 GMT

By: Sandy Thompson
NFBPWC Finance Chair 2024-2026

Voting

Why is it important to vote?

1. Elections have consequences. You have the power to decide on the quality of life you want. Voting is your chance to stand up for the issues you care about. This is your life: take the time to help decide what’s best.

2. Not voting is giving up your voice. Elections are decided by people who go out and vote. Take some time and learn about the measures and the candidates. If you don’t vote, someone else will make the decision for you. Your power is your vote.

3. It’s your money. You pay your dues, but do you know how that money is being used? Most people don’t. Voting is your chance to choose how your dues are spent.

4. Voting is an opportunity for change. Do you want to make a positive impact? Voting gives you that chance! Support the candidates and measures that help the organization. Make your voice heard in this election.

5. The organization depends on you! Make the decision to vote for yourself and those around you.

Make sure your voice is heard – Vote!

Below is a partial list of elections where a single vote decided the outcome:

• President Ruthford B. Hayes was elected President of the United States by one Electoral vote 186 to 185

• A Democratic candidate won New York’s election to its 36th Congressional District in 1910 by garnering 20,685 votes, while his Republican opponent drew 20,684.

• Maine’s 1982 state House election was won by a candidate who received 1,387 votes to the loser’s 1,386 votes

• A 1980 state House race in Utah in was won by a victor who garnered 1,931 votes over the loser’s 1,930 votes

• A 1970 Rhode Island state House race was won by the victor’s 1,760 votes to the loser’s 1,759 votes

• A Missouri state house race during the same year as Rhode Island’s above-referenced political race was won by the victor’s 4,819 votes over the loser’s 4,818 votes.

• And don' forget it was by one vote that women won the right to vote!

So, as you can clearly see, your vote can make all the difference!

Bylaws and Resolutions

Kemi Oyebade — Mon, 02 Sep 2024 16:30:00 GMT

By: Angie Jackson-Wilson
NFBPWC Bylaws and Resolution Chair 2024-2026

Varnell Kinnen, Co-Chair

Once the updates from the Biennial are submitted, working with the clubs on future amendments will be crucial.

Below is a sample proclamation for National Business Women’s Week:

Women’s Equality Day Team

Kemi Oyebade — Mon, 02 Sep 2024 16:25:00 GMT

By: Kathy Telban, NFBPWC Women’s Equality Day Team Lead

On August 24^th we commemorated Women’s Equality Day by expanding it from just acknowledging the certification of the 19^th Amendment that gave women the right to vote to include the continued effort to get the 28^th Amendment in the Constitution. These two amendments are the bookends to women’s equality.

When the founders were planning for the United States, they left women out of the Constitution by design. Not long ago, I looked up the 19^th amendment to see the actual text and realized that the 28^th amendment (The ERA) had similar language to the 19^th.

19^th Amendment (Began 1848 - Passed 1920)

28^th Amendment (Introduced 1923 - PendingPublication)

The right of citizens of the

United States to vote shall not be denied or abridged

by the United States or by any State

on account of sex.

Equality of rights under the law

shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any state

on account of sex.

Given all the misinformation about what the ERA would do, once you compare them side-by-side you clearly see that the 19^th only focuses on voting and the 28^th is everything else. The ERA is the foundation that says everyone has equal rights under the law and you cannot treat someone differently based on their sex!

According to Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia, “Certainly the Constitution does not require discrimination on the basis of sex. The only issue is whether it prohibits it. It doesn't.”

Our expert panel educated us on these two amendments and the road that women have traveled on their way to full equality for 4 generations. Tina Cassidy, author of Mr. President, How Long Must We Wait? Alice Paul, Woodrow Wilson and the Fight for the Right to Vote (2019) shared the strategies that women used to get the attention of the President and have the 19^th amendment ratified and published. Wendy Murphy, law professor and pioneer in Title IX work, educated us on the ERA with facts from her recently published law review article titled: Unequal Protection of the Laws for Women is Constitutional Terrorism, so How Come Nobody Knows About It? You can find it here: (https://tinyurl.com/4xmw48sx ).

Kamala Lopez a filmmaker and Founder/President of Equal Means Equal shared stories, strategies, and how her documentary Equal Means Equal was used to educate and inspire voters in the last three states of Nevada, Illinois, and Virginia to ratify the ERA. This film is still playing on Prime and a must see. She also encouraged attendees to join her Final Impact project by taking a picture with a phone and uploading it to a site that will produce large posters with many individual pictures of people calling Joe Biden to ask him to call the Archivist to direct her to publish the ERA. Learn more here: https://finalimpact.org

This commemorative event was well attended with 58% (70) of the 122 registrations. Of the total registrations, 70% were not members! Attendees took action at the event by signing petitions, a letter to Jill Biden, and texting both President Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris to get the ERA published. You also can sign these petitions: bit.ly/3I9zvnj sponsored by Shattering Glass; www.sign4era.orga National student led petition; and sign this letter to Jill Biden https://equalmeansequal.org/signjillsletter/sponsored by Equal Means Equal. Also text daily “Publish the ERA Now” to President Biden 302-404-0880 and Vice President Harris 301861-2977 until the ERA is published.

The Women’s Equality Day event was recorded, and a link will be available soon. You can watch and share it with others!

I want to thank President Barbara Bozeman who came up to me after the Biennial Conference to ask me what I’d like to do for NFBPWC and when I shared this idea, she put me in charge and supported me the whole way. Also, thanks to Emily Van Vleck our VP of Advocacy for helping me plan and prepare for this event. In my experience the only way you can pull off an event like this in a short period of time is to have a professional team that gets the job done!

LGBTQ+ Advocacy Team

Kemi Oyebade — Mon, 02 Sep 2024 16:20:00 GMT

By: Susan Oser
NFBPWC Advocacy Team LGBTQ+ Lead

Greetings,

I, Susan E. Oser, am continuing my role as the LGBTQIA+ Liaison for this great organization. Because it is the new term, I plan to do things a little bit differently and work closely with our new V.P. of Advocacy Emily VanVleck. For this new term, I would like to focus on issues that have an LGBTQ+ slant according to the Advocacy Platform and I

will be sharing some special dates in LGBTQ+ history, as well as the good things that have happened for the community. However, I cannot do this alone and would love a person or two to connect with and help me. Maybe even plan an event or two. If you are that person, you can contact me at the address below this entry.

LGBTQ+ Dates for September –

➢ September 16-22 Bisexual Awareness Day - https://www.glaad.org/bisexual

➢ September 18 – National HIV/AIDS and Aging Awareness Day - https://www.hiv.gov/events/awareness-days/aging

➢ September 23 – Celebrate Bisexuality Day - https://bivisibilityday.com/about/ ➢ September 27 – National Gay Men’s HIV/AIDS Awareness Day - https://www.cdc.gov/hiv/awarenessdays/?CDC_AAref_Val=https://www.cdc.gov/hiv/library /awareness/ngmhaad.html

Good LGBTQ+ News for June –

✓ These moms’ sperm donor sued them to get parental rights. They just won a court victory. - https://tinyurl.com/25jejs2t

✓ Trans girl appeared in court in soccer uniform, won the right to play & headed straight to practice - https://tinyurl.com/nhjncjek

✓ China awards visitation rights to gay mom in historic first - https://tinyurl.com/m23kzue2 ✓ Federal judge: Military can no longer prevent people with HIV from enlisting - https://tinyurl.com/5ekh32j9

If you have any news or leads on anything related to LGBTQ+ news, issues, and organizations, please contact Sue Oser at soser@nfbpwc.org.

ERA Team Announcement

Kemi Oyebade — Mon, 02 Sep 2024 16:15:00 GMT

ERA Team By: Nancy Werner
NFBPWC Advocacy Team ERA Lead (2022-2026)

EQUAL RIGHTS AMENDMENT – Women’s Equality Day – August 24, 2024 from 12:00 to 1:30 Eastern – Hosted by the National Federation of Business and Professional Women’s Club Advocacy –Equal Rights Amendment. “Equality of rights under the law shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or any State on account of sex” needs to be placed into our Constitution. While most states have laws prohibiting discrimination of any kind based on sex, proponents of the E.R.A. say laws can be reversed or eliminated. Having a Constitutional Amendment would cement those rights.

Women’s Equality Day-August 24, 2024 was an extraordinary event for our organization. Kathy Telban, Ohio, created this event by finding 3 outstanding speakers on the Equal Rights Amendment. With the help of Emily VanVleck, our Vice President of Advocacy, and NFBPWC President Barbara Bozeman, it was an informative and inspiring hour and a half. Let me share some of the highlights with you.

Women’s Equality Day was established in 1973 to commemorate the certification of the 19^th Amendment to the Constitution that gave women the right to vote. This year will not only celebrate this historic event again, but educate, agitate, and activate you to push for the full equality by demanding publication of the 28^thAmendment to the Constitution-The Equal Rights Amendment.

From the right to vote in 1920, through the ratification of the Equal Rights Amendment in 2020, to demanding its publication today, women have persisted for over 200 years through three generations for the simple right to be being treated equally under the law. Not one more year! (I credit Kathy Telban with these 2 paragraphs.) With a panel of experts to guide us, these women led us through the women’s journey to achieve equality.

Our first speaker was Tina Cassidy, author of Mr. President, How Long Must We Wait. It was in 2016 that she learned about Women’s Equality Day. She began to research the stories that brought the women’s movement for the right to vote. She learned that there were 6 states who gave the women the right to vote prior to 1920. They were Washington, Wyoming, Idaho, Utah, Colorado and California. These states needed peoplepower as to receiving seats in the US House of Representatives. She shared the work of Alice Paul in trying to keep the suffrage movement in the national news. The Suffrage Procession was held the day before election day back in 1917. There was the car with 3 women who drove from California to Washington D.C. or the plane that her good friend, Lucy Burns, flew a banner across many miles of our country. Alice’s plan to have the Sentinels stand in front of the White House for months in all kinds of weather was brilliant. But Wilson was not too fond of them and finally had them sent to prison. There their treatment was force feeding. There was a period of time when Alice was actually placed in a mental institution.

Tina Cassidy continued with the slogan used by Woodrow Wilson, “Keeping the World Safe for Democracy.” The women did not care for this slogan and shared their thoughts in high numbers. Well, Wilson had fulfilled his 2 terms and was considered a lame duck. He changed his mind, and the public was changing their minds, too. It was on August 26, 1920, when the right to vote was passed and the 19^th Amendment was added to the Constitution.

Our second speaker was Wendy J. Murphy JD, author of Ohio Northern University Law Review Article: Unequal Protection of the Laws for Women is Constitutional Terrorism, so how come Nobody Knows About it?

One area that Alice Paul really followed was being nonpartisan in all her decisions about what women should be following. Alice wrote the Equal Rights Amendment in 1923 and shared it at Seneca Falls that July. She kept everything low key. We were watching the states place equality into their state Constitutions. But we also wanted the ERA in our US Constitution. So, we had 35 states that ratified it, but we needed 3 more. In 2012, the archivist placed in writing that he would do just that if 3 more states passed it. Well, it happened with Nevada, Illinois and finally Virginia in 2020. As happy as we were, we saw that it did not happen. Not with Trump and not even with Biden.

Our plan for the coming weeks to election-give the White House daily calls and share you will not vote for Harris unless the ERA is signed. We are 170 million strong and this is our time to act. NO VOTE FOR HARRIS UNLESS YOU PUBLISH THE ERA NOW.

302-404-0880 President Biden

301-861-2977 VP Harris

202-224-3121 Capital Switchboard

Our third speaker was Kamala Lopez, President and Director of the film, Equal Means Equal. She shared her ERA educational project with us and how long it took to create so many educational items for us all to use. The movie is still available to secure and view. It shares the background stories of here and in England as women in both countries tried to get the vote.

But, Kamala also shared her journey going from state to state to get the legislatures to listen to her and her group. In 2018, they visited Arizona at their polling places. Another stop in 2018 was Illinois where they partnered with other groups and traveled the state in busloads. Their attempt in Missouri was a frightening experience as Kamala shared they were practically run out of state. Then in 2019, she traveled to Virginia and was greeted with a State Supreme Court ruling about the gerrymandering that was in Virginia. When that was addressed, it was wonderful to be in Virginia and see the vote taken.

It was then that the US Congress started to hold a hearing about the ERA. Kamala and her team were there sharing their views. We just heard that the US Bar Association has shared that the ERA is passed.

Kamala is promoting the “Final Impact.” She would like us all to take a photo as we talk on the phone and send it to the following address. https://finalimpact.org. All the information that you need can be found on this site.

While we are doing that make sure you place the phone numbers for President Biden, VP Harris and the Capital Switchboard in your phone, and call them every day.

It was an incredible 90 minutes of information! But for over 50 members, it was the best webinar! As for taping it, it was but it will be offered only to the attendees.

Women’s Equality Day will be or was an incredible day for all of us on August 26. Hope you wore your yellow. We have work to do every day until Election Day. Let’s get busy and start our phone calls. Already I have the numbers in my phone. We should all be inspired by our 3 panelists. They were tremendous in knowledge and motivation. Again, a huge thank you to Kathy Telban, Emily VanVleck and Barbara Boseman for a job done extremely well.

SIGN4ERA – May I encourage you AGAIN to take the time RIGHT NOW to sign onto this link: http://www.sign4ERA.org. When you visit this site, there is much information given to you. History of the current work and why it is so important. We now have 110,000 supporters who have signed the petition. The number is still climbing.

Please keep in touch with your Senators using the NFBPWC “One Click.”

Celebration of Life: A tribute to Lynn Brandstater who passed from us on Saturday, August 24th

Kemi Oyebade — Mon, 02 Sep 2024 16:05:00 GMT

Celebration of Life
A tribute to Lynn Brandstater who passed from us on Saturday, August 24^th.
By: Anne Marie Johnson, President, California Federation of BPW

“Good friends are like stars. You don’t always see them, but you know they’re always there”. Lynn and I have been friends for thirty-five years.

We meet through BPW. We served together as leaders in the former Verdugo Hills club, in both LA Sunset and Valley Sunset Districts, and in the State Federation. Lynn served as the California Federation president from 2020-2022.

One member used to call us Thelma and Louise. But, I don’t recall us ever doing anything illegal and we certainly never had to run from the police. But, over the years we have had many adventures and not all of them related the BPW.

Lynn liked Paris, turtles, dogs, bracelets, and diet coke. Although she always presented herself as professional, she was very easygoing, and she did have a silly side. This made her a really fun traveling companion. One of Lynn’s many qualities was her thoughtfulness. She would send cards and give meaningful gifts. She always remembered to take a hostess gift and quite often goodie bags. She was always there when you needed her.

Lynn will be missed by all who knew her.

Thanks Again to our Convention Sponsors

Kemi Oyebade — Thu, 01 Aug 2024 17:40:00 GMT

Nike Sponsor:

MEMBER: SONDRA NUNEZ

Mountain Valley Petroleum sponsored transportation for the Alice Paul House Tour.

Torch Sponsor:

ORGANIZATION: Ironton Telephone/ Global

Sponsored admission to the Alice Paul Institute
Ironton Global is the Alice Paul Institute Sponsor

Wand Sponsor:

MEMBER: SANDRA THOMPSON

General sponsorship

Ship of Commerce Sponsors:

MEMBER: NANCY WERNER

Nancy sponsored the Tote Bags event photographer
Ship of Commerce &
Scroll Sponsor

ORGANIZATION: HEIDEL HOLLOW FARM, INC

Bags event

ORGANIZATION: NFBPWC PA

Kodee Water Bottles

Alfred Werner (Nancy's Husband)

NFBPWC Tablets

Scroll Sponsors:

ORGANIZATION: NATIONAL WOMEN’S HISTORY ALLIANCE

Magazines and bookmarks

ORGANIZATION: SIERRA MAR DISTRICT BPW DISTRICT BPW

General sponsorship

MEMBER: CYNTHIA WIEME

General sponsorship

ORGANIZATION: CA FEDERATION BPW

General sponsorship

ORGANIZATION: VALLEY SUNSET

General sponsorship

MEMBER: TERESSA GERHKE

General sponsorship

MEMBER: MEGAN SHELLMAN-RICKARDGeneral sponsorship General sponsorship

MEMBER: JOANNE NAYLOR

General sponsorship

MEMBER: MICHELE GUARINO

General sponsorship

Honorary Mention to the Photographer:

You can still purchase photos from the convention at: https://conventionphoto.photostockplus.com/album/4563461/

August Highlights in US Women’s History

Kemi Oyebade — Thu, 01 Aug 2024 17:30:00 GMT

August 26th – 97th Anniversary of Women in the United States Winning the Vote

August Women’s History Events

August 6, 1965 – The Voting Rights Act outlaws the discriminatory literacy tests that had been used to prevent African Americans from voting. Suffrage is finally fully extended to African American women
August 8, 1969 – Executive order 11478 issued by President Nixon requires each federal department and agency to establish and maintain an affirmative action program of equal employment opportunity for civilian employees and applicants
August 9 – International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples (United Nations observed)
August 10, 1993 – Ruth Bader Ginsburg is sworn in as the second woman and 107th Justice to serve on the US Supreme Court
August 12, 1972 – Wendy Rue founds the National Association for Female Executives (NAFE), the largest businesswomen’s organization in the United States
August 19 – World Humanitarian Day (United Nations observed)
August 21 - International Day of Remembrance and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism (United Nationals observed)
August 22 - International Day Commemorating the Victims of Acts of Violence Based on Religion or Belief (United Nationals observed)
August 26, 1920 – The 19th Amendment of the US Constitution is ratified granting women the right to vote
August 26, 1970 – Betty Friedan leads a nationwide protest called the “Women’s Strike for Equality” in New York City on the fiftieth anniversary of women’s suffrage
August 26, 1971 – The first Women’s Equality Day, initiated by Representative Bella Abzug, is established by Presidential Proclamation and reaffirmed annually
August 28, 1963 – More than 250,000 gather for a march on Washington, DC, and listen to Martin Luther King, Jr.’s famous “I Have a Dream” speech

“March Again for Equal Rights” broadside, circa August 1977, Box V:314, National Woman’s Party Records, Manuscript Division, Library of Congress

Upcoming Dates in Women’s History to Note for September:

September is Latina/Chicano Heritage Month.
September 2^nd is Labor Day.
September 18^th International Equity Pay Day.
September 19^th International Day of Peace.

Rapid Response

Kemi Oyebade — Thu, 01 Aug 2024 17:30:00 GMT

By: NFBPWC Rapid Response Committee Chair

NFBPWC is looking for the next Rapid Response Chair. If you are interested in joining this Committee, please email President Barbara Bozeman at president@nfbpwc.org.

Public Relations

Kemi Oyebade — Thu, 01 Aug 2024 17:25:00 GMT

By: Nancy Werner
NFBPWC Public Relations Chair (2024-2026)

Dr. Jill Zinckgraf Addresses The Biennial Conference

At the Biennial Conference, we were most fortunate to have as our Keynote Speaker, Dr. Jill Zinckgraf, Interim Director for the National Women’s History Alliance. She is a dedicated advocate and senior executive with a profound commitment to social justice. She has championed causes related to women’s empowerment, domestic violence and sexual assault prevention and social equality. Traveling from her home in Morristown, New Jersey, she was welcomed by our NFBPWC members to our 7th Biennial Conference.

Using our theme, “Equality Has NO Deadline,” her presentation shared the story of the National Women’s History Alliance since 1986 and how it has been built on the actions of women. Over the years, information on women’s achievements in educational materials have been prepared for classrooms and to organizations. The NWHA provides a yearly magazine and newsletters throughout the year. From 1986 when the NWHA was formed, her power point program shared taped snippets of the NWHA from the beginning to the present. During her presentation she used the phrase, “like-minded women” a few times and we readily agreed.

She really emphasized, ‘What is the plan as we head to the upcoming election?” Again, we agreed. We are all being asked to provide funds for this November election but what are the plans? At the moment we shook our heads. We knew of none.

How little did we know that the very next day President Biden would refuse the party nomination? Then a few days later, he shared that Kamala Harris, our Vice President, should be the party nominee. Never in my crystal ball did I see this coming BUT it is a PLAN.

Dr. Jill’s presentation shared the importance of women working together and finding the path to Equality. We only need to work harder to achieve our equality. Maybe this is our time.

I do wish to thank Amanda Owen, PA Affiliate Member and our Justice Bell author, a huge thank you. Her making connections with Martha Wheelock, President of the

NWHA, and then Martha, with me was most welcoming. The connections of our

networking knows no boundaries and to learn that Dr. Jill lived only a couple of hours away in New Jersey was a sigh of relief. Headquarters for the NWHA is in Santa Rosa, CA. I was thinking fast about how to cover her airfare.

Also thank you, Sandy Thompson, former NFBPWC Parliamentarian, who also assisted in the zoom communications with Dr. Jill. I must leave you with a quote from Martha, “women make it happen.” Maybe we should all be saying this mantra every day…. forever.

Engage with NFBPWC on Social Media

Organization Page:

Group Page:

Organization Page:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2l_ciIxLyvbu1dbBOsV9Tg

YouTube:

Instagram:

Finance

Kemi Oyebade — Thu, 01 Aug 2024 17:15:00 GMT

By: Sandy Thompson
NFBPWC Finance Chair, finance@nfbpwc.org

I am very pleased to have been asked by President Barbara Bozeman to serve as Finance Chair for this new term.

In my previous life (before retirement) my last position was Director of Operations. What it really meant was that I handled finances and budgets for several departments at Amtrak. My duties also included overseeing and preparing a million-dollar budget for the National operations department for special projects. These were items that you didn’t need to do every

year, but had to be done occasionally. These were things like new furniture, baggage equipment and painting.

I also currently serve on the finance committee for my church.

I have been and will continue to serve on the Legacy committee.

I believe my background will serve me well in this position.

I look forward to working with all of you to move our federation forward financially.

International Relations

Kemi Oyebade — Thu, 01 Aug 2024 17:15:00 GMT

By: Larisa B. Miller
NFBPWC International Relations Chair (2024-2026), international@nfbpwc.org

As we herald a new era for NFBPWC, I am honored to assume the role of International Liaison to drive engagement between NFBPWC with our BPW membership across the globe. In this time of globalization, digitalization and transformation, we must recognize that working together, across borders, building our knowledge, strengthening our supply

chains, accessing innovations and sharing our networks will enhance the growth and resiliency of our businesses and provide exponential opportunity for professional growth.

While we work collectively to strengthen our business and professional relations and opportunities, we still face many challenges as women, socially, economically and through a continual lack of access to systems and resources. We must come together to stand shoulder-to-shoulder to ensure that we have a voice in shaping global policy that gives us the rights and opportunities that we deserve in 2024 and beyond. And we need to be the voice for our 400 million voiceless sisters around the world who live in abject poverty.

Through the next two years, we are committed to taking the lead on bridging our global connectivity, ensuring that it is not us against each other, it is us together for a solution.

The Power of Global Unity: Building Resilient Businesses for a Sustainable Future

In an increasingly interconnected world, the importance of collaboration and unity among business and professional women cannot be overstated. The National Federation of Business and Professional Women Clubs (NFBPWC) stands at the forefront of this movement, championing the need for global cooperation to build resilient business models, expand our networks, strengthen supply chains, and enhance economic sustainability.

The modern business landscape is characterized by rapid technological advancements, fluctuating markets, and ever-changing consumer preferences. In such a dynamic environment, the resilience of our business models is paramount. Resilient businesses are not only capable of withstanding shocks and disruptions but also of thriving in the face of adversity. To achieve this, it is essential for us, as business and professional women, to work together across borders, pooling our resources, knowledge, and expertise.

One of the key advantages of belonging to NFBPWC is the vast network of like-minded women it offers. By expanding our networks and customer bases through global connections, we can access new markets, diversify our revenue streams, and reduce dependency on any single market. This diversification is crucial for mitigating risks and ensuring long-term sustainability. NFBPWC's global chapters provide a unique platform for members to explore new markets, learn from one another, and forge new business collaborations.

The power of NFBPWC lies in its ability to unite women from diverse backgrounds and industries. By coming together, we can advocate for policies that enable greater access to opportunities, easier access to capital, and stronger business relations. Advocacy is a critical component of our mission, and by speaking with a unified voice, we can drive meaningful change that benefits all women in business, regardless of geographical location, socio-economic status, ethnicity, level of education, or business pathway.

Globalization is not just a buzzword; it is a mindset that we must embrace. NFBPWC's commitment to globalization is reflected in our efforts to connect members worldwide, facilitating the exchange of ideas and best practices. By joining NFBPWC chapters across the globe, we can immerse ourselves in new business cultures, learn from different perspectives, and position NFBPWC as the leading organization for business and professional women. Our greatest strength lies in our commitment to support, mentor, and collaborate with one another. The NFBPWC network is a treasure trove of thought leadership and subject matter expertise, and by leveraging this collective wisdom, we can elevate each other's businesses and careers.

About Larisa B. Miller

Larisa B. Miller is a distinguished leader in global business and strategic development, serving as the CEO of Phoenix Global Holdings, Inc., headquartered in Miami, Florida, and Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. Phoenix Global Holdings stands as a beacon of innovation and strategic growth, encompassing specialized verticals such as Phoenix Global, LLC (USA); Phoenix Global Consulting (UAE); Phoenix Global Media & Technology Group, and Phoenix Grove, a global defense, security and cybersecurity firm.

Larisa brings a wealth of experience and an expansive network of connections to Phoenix Global, particularly in the UAE, where she has served as the head of business and investment for members of the Royal Family in Abu Dhabi. She works extensively with governments and on development projects in strategic African nations, highlighting Phoenix Global's prioritization of African development and business expansion. Her leadership focuses on pivotal sectors including Transportation Infrastructure, Agriculture/Agritech, International Municipal and Governmental Consulting, ESG/Sustainability, and Technology.

Additionally, Larisa is an accomplished author, columnist and speaker, addressing audiences around the world on a myriad of topics including business model transformation, technology and the integration of disruptive technologies, ESG and sustainability, leadership, youth and women's empowerment, globalization, and global business expansion.

Larisa speaks to BPW chapters around the world prioritizing leadership development and opportunity-building for business and professional women.

Digital Training

Kemi Oyebade — Thu, 01 Aug 2024 17:05:00 GMT

By: Teressa Gehrke
NFBPWC Digital Training Special Committee Chair

Passwords & Password Management

It’s Time to Upgrade Your Passwords

Have you ever wondered if your personal details are on the dark web? How

quickly can a bad hacker crack the code of your password? On June 23, 2024, Teressa Gehrke, NFBPWC Digital Training Chair presented

“The Importance of Passwords & Password Management” to members. She discussed the basics of passwords and how to manage them using a Password Manager. In her presentation, she showed the

following Password Table provided by Hive Systems. Hive Systems puts out a table every year indicating the time it takes a hacker to brute force your password.

Brute Force is a means of an attacker excessively attempting to use commonly used passwords or passphrases to crack someone’s password in an attempt to gain access to a user’s personal and confidential information.

Based on the table you can see the duration of how long it takes to crack a password. Each year, it gets faster. This is why using strong passwords that are at a minimum 12 characters long, and preferably 16 characters, using numbers, uppercase and lowercase letters, and symbols is preferred. In addition, using a Password Manager is highly recommended because one simply cannot remember hundreds of passwords alone. It’s also recommended that each password for each account is unique. If one password is breached and it is used across multiple platforms, there is a higher likelihood that you will be compromised elsewhere. What if it's an Amazon account or your retirement fund account? You may never recover those funds.

During the presentation, members visited the site Have I Been Pwned. (Yes, it’s spelled correctly.) www.haveibeenpwned.com. Members could type in their email or phone number and see if their personal information had been compromised in a security incident.

Now what?

If you see your information has been breached, go back to your account and reset your password and begin using Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), sometimes called Two-Factor Authentication (2FA). It adds a second layer of security to your username and password. There’s a link to the presentation and the webinar recording below. For additional assistance or questions, please email: digitaltraining@nfbpwc.org.

Presentation: The Importance of Passwords & Password Management PDF

Webinar Recording: Importance of Passwords and Password Management

About Teressa Gehrke

Teressa Gehrke is the Founder & CEO of PopCykol, a cybersecurity awareness company designed for families and kids. PopCykol stands for Protecting Our Precious Curious Kids Online. PopCykol teaches cybersecurity concepts in a fun, easy, and interactive style.

She has worked in cybersecurity since 2014 as a technical writer, user experience manager, and project manager. She has taught cybersecurity at local colleges. Teressa has a B.A. in Art History and Anthropology. She earned a Master’s in Genetic Anthropology and International Development from Colorado State University and advanced her education studying Network Security at Arapahoe Community College. She is the President of Business & Professional Women of Colorado - Denver chapter, and Digital Training Chair for the National Federation of Business & Professional Women's Clubs. In her free time, she enjoys swimming, stand up paddleboarding, painting, singing, songwriting, and drumming.

NFBPWC Approved 2024-2026 Advocacy Platform

Kemi Oyebade — Thu, 01 Aug 2024 16:45:00 GMT

NATIONAL FEDERATION OF BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONAL WOMEN’S CLUBS (NFBPWC) ADVOCACY PLATFORM 2024 - 2026

NFBPWC will employ several education, advocacy, monitoring, and tracking strategies to meet the following priorities:

The Alice Paul Equal Rights Amendment shall stand first and foremost above all other items of the advocacy platform until Equal Rights have been guaranteed in the United States Constitution – i.e. “Equality of Rights under the law shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any State on account of sex.” Human Rights – recognition that women’s rights are human rights

Support:

○The Alice Paul Equal Rights Amendment.

○Passage of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW).

○Equal rights for historically marginalized groups, encompassing, but not restricted to, Black, Indigenous, and LGBTQ+ individuals.

○Universal background checks for all firearm purchases.

○The Violence Against Women Act; especially when reauthorization is required.

○Fair and equal access to education, including sufficient funding for public education ranging from early childhood education to post-secondary / higher education.

○Policies and practices that promote environmental sustainability.

○Empower and enhance the well-being of military-affiliated women.

○Equitable treatment of any women who are arrested, detained, or incarcerated.

○Privacy rights of women, especially regarding their health, sexual and relationship history, and personal and digital data.

○protection of human rights and equitable treatment of all migrants, including refugees and asylum seekers.

Eradicate Domestic Violence and Electronic and Physical stalking, sexual harassment, sexual abuse, and discrimination.
Oppose human trafficking, sexual exploitation, and all forms of slavery.

Economic Equity and Justice

Support the elimination of Forced Arbitration as the sole means of dispute resolution.
Access to:
○Education, training, and promotional opportunities.

○Equal opportunities in the workplace and on corporate boards.

○Procurement procedures that facilitate opportunities for women-owned or women-led enterprises.

○Quality, affordable dependent care (child, elderly, or disabled).

○Funding and capital for entrepreneurial activity. ○Affordable and attainable housing.

Health Equity and Justice
Support for reproductive justice.
Access to affordable reproductive healthcare; including but not limited to; contraception, assisted reproduction techniques, and abortion care.
Support for paid sick, family, and medical leave.
Elimination of gender bias in research funding.
Health education funding for women’s and girl’s health issues.
Prevention of discrimination against pregnancy and infant care in the workplace (e.g. reasonable accommodations for breastfeeding/breast pumping and other pregnancy /maternity conditions.)
Ensure workplace safety.
Expansion of mental health coverage and services.
Approved on July 20, 2024

NFBPWC Biennial General Assembly

King of Prussia, PA

Bylaws / Resolutions Outgoing Chair

Kemi Oyebade — Thu, 01 Aug 2024 16:40:00 GMT

By: Trudy Waldroop
NFBPWC Bylaws / Resolutions Outgoing Chair (2022-2024)

RESULTS of the proposed Bylaws and Policies and Procedures Amendments

from the July National Federation General Assembly

All 18 proposed Bylaws amendments and all 20 Policies and Procedures were adopted. Only a few of the proposed amendments were amended by the members. They are listed below with the changes in red.

BYLAWS

#4 proposal, page 4: ARTICLE IX – OFFICERS, Section 1

The elected officers of the National Federation shall be: a President, a First Vice-president Membership, a Second Vice-president Advocacy, a Secretary, a Treasurer, and a Young BPW. A and and a Young BPW. A Parliamentarian shall be appointed by the President and serves without a vote unless the state law they live in prohibits it.

#17 page 14: ARTICLE XVI - SPECIAL COMMITTEES/TASK FORCES, Section 3

Special Committees and Task Forces are appointed by the President and ratified by the Executive Committee with the exception of the Nominations Chair, which is an elected position.

Typo: # 13 page 11: Article XIV, Board of Directors and #16, page 13 current Article XV Standing Committee, Sections 1 – insert Membership after L3 (Lifelong Leadership and Learning)

POLICES AND PROCEDURES MANUAL

#11 page 7 bottom of the page: 2.4.10 Women on the Move o Create a resource library including schools, realtors, maps, car leasing, long term house leasing, child care and dependent care services, language services, women’s services (hair, nails, facials, clothing), and more.

#16, page 13: 7.10 Voting (Biennial General Assembly)

All members in good standing and registered for the Biennial General Assembly may vote electronically. Typo: #8, page 4; should be 2.3.3 Future Program Ideas

This Chair attended all but two of the Board of Directors’ meetings during the term. She submitted four articles to the E-Magazine and were published. This chair thanks the Bylaws/Resolutions Committee: then NF Parliamentarian Sandy Thompson and Virtual Club President Barbara Bozeman for their dedicated and valuable hard-work. They were awesome.

ERA Team

Kemi Oyebade — Thu, 01 Aug 2024 16:10:00 GMT

By: Nancy Werner
NFBPWC Advocacy Team ERA Lead (2022-2026)

EQUAL RIGHTS AMENDMENT – Alice Paul’s Home – Paulsdale, 128

Hooton Street, Mt. Laurel, New Jersey – “Trip of a Lifetime”

Let me start with the NFBPWC Biennial Conference of July 18 to 21, 2024 at the

Sheraton Hotel in King of Prussia, PA. When President Megan asked for a volunteer to chair this event, I knew this would be an opportunity to share the Alice Paul House with the NFBPWC members. Our theme said it all - “Equality Has No Deadline.” Only 45 minutes away in Mt. Laurel, New Jersey, we had 40 plus members join us on 2 small buses. It was a gorgeous day of sunny skies and light breezes.

We were greeted by the Alice Paul Institute staff. We needed to divide our group into two, as one group received the presentation of Alice Paul’s life. Allie, our presenter, shared Alice’s life from the beginning to her final days through photographs that were gathered. Alice’s life was compelling as we learned of her Quaker life, education, travels to England and returning to the United States. Her national suffrage work was widely known.

President Woodrow Wilson was not too kind to the Sentinels who stood outside his White House fence 24/7. He finally had them all arrested and placed in jail for months. Their hunger strikes created the force feedings. We heard that these women endured lasting effects of this treatment and Alice did, too. But with an upcoming election for Wilson, he released these women as his public image was not the best.

But Alice’s work carried on as she wrote the Equal Rights Amendment and delivered it on July 19, 1923, at the Presbyterian Church in Seneca Falls, New York. She worked to have her document be received by the US Congress and be heard across the country. Alice dedicated her life to this amendment.

We saw quotations of Alice throughout the lower level of the house. Alice Paul-Feminist Suffragist, Political Strategist. She was the architect of some of the most outstanding political achievements on behalf of women in the 20^th Century. She dedicated her life to the single cause of securing equal rights for all women.

We stood next to her wall mural and took photos. We read excerpts in her journals. We saw pictures of her youth to adulthood. Alice was there in her Victorian House with the most beautiful wrap around porch with chairs.

If you are wondering about the second group, we were greeted by Quincy Wansel, Youth Program Coordinator. She had the porch filled with tables and chairs of educational fun. Ready for us were worksheets

- Who is Missing in History?, word searches, coloring activities, writing postcards to our US representatives

and making buttons with “ERA.” She had a machine on the table. It was amazing what you can accomplish in an hour on a wraparound porch with a beautiful breeze.

But just walking through the few rooms that shared Alice’s life was inspiring. Thinking what she did for women was an awesome journey. If you ever wish to have a program all about Alice Paul, visit their web page and download the worksheets that are already prepared for you. They have answer keys too!

We had a professional photographer named Thomas Josh Silva, from Convention Photography, join us. He drove from eastern Tennessee. He took a group photo of all of us who visited the Alice Paul House that Friday, July 19. He found a ladder as high as he could, and he climbed to get the best shot. But for those who purchased this photo, we will always have a memory of our day with Alice Paul.

Although Director Rachael Glashan Rupisan was on vacation, Olivia Errico, did the honors of receiving us and sharing goodbyes. Again, we wish to thank the Ironton Telephone/ Global for paying for our admissions. (That’s my family business and we were honored to provide this gift.)

SIGN4ERA– May I encourage you AGAIN to take the time RIGHT NOW to sign onto this link: http://www.sign4ERA.org. When you visit this site, there is much information given to you. History of the current work and why it is so important. We now have 100,000 supporters who have signed the petition. The number is still climbing.

Please keep in touch with your Senators using the NFBPWC “One Click.”

International Relations Chair Report

Kemi Oyebade — Mon, 01 Jul 2024 17:20:00 GMT

By: Sandra Thompson
NFBPWC’s International Chair, international@nfbpwc.org

Congratulations to Jamaica for celebrating their 50th anniversary. We congratulate them on their 50 years of service to women.

I am including the information once again for the International Congress.

The time for the BPW International Congress is fast approaching. It will be held November 17 to 21 in St. Kitts. Go to https://stkittscongress.bpwinternational.org/registrationfor more information.

Below is a summary of what is included and the cost for registration.

5 Days - Delegate / Member

Opening Ceremony, Regional Conferences, General Assembly, Panels, Workshops, Breakfast, Lunch & Coffee Breaks, at the Marriott.

NOTE: Gala Dinner and Farewell Dinner are not included in this ticket. 17 - 21 Nov 2024

Ticket Prices

Early Bird (until 2 Sept 2024)

Standard (until 15 Sept 2024) Late (until 15 Oct 2024)

Credit Card or Bank Transfer

900 EUR - Early Bird

1'100 EUR - Standard

1'250 EUR – Late

Gala Dinner $145 US

Farewell Dinner $150 US

We hope to see a lot of you there to enjoy a time to connect with you BPW sisters from around the world.

Public Relations Committee Report

Kemi Oyebade — Mon, 01 Jul 2024 17:15:00 GMT

By: Suzette Cotto
NFBPWC Public Relations Chair

Engage with NFBPWC on Social Media

Organization Page:

Group Page:

Organization Page:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2l_ciIxLyvbu1dbBOsV9Tg

YouTube:

Instagram:

Proposed Bylaws Amendments 06.09.2024.pdf

Rapid Response Committee Report

Kemi Oyebade — Mon, 01 Jul 2024 17:00:00 GMT

By: Susan E. Oser
NFBPWC Rapid Response Committee Chair

Before continuing to this month’s article, I’d like to take this opportunity to thank you for reading my articles and supporting me as the Rapid Response Chair for the second half of this term. While it has been a challenge, I have learned a lot. Hopefully, in the new term after the July Assembly (as of this writing) we can have a new chair with clearer rules in place to help make it easier to perform in this position.

Issues that will need your attention and need to be addressed. – LGBTQ+ issues – Transgender Rights

This month, it’s about LGBTQ+ issues particularly, transgender issues.

The reason this needs to be its because a lot of conservative lawmakers in conservative cities, towns and especially states are creating laws and rules to ban transgender folks from participating in sports, getting gender affirming surgery (especially in teenagers) and bathroom bills. One of the reasons this is happening, as with the other important political issues mentioned in this section is because it seems as if these laws were put in place to make a dare to take the law to the Supreme Court so that (hopefully in their eyes) it can be ruled to be a “states rights” issue so specific human rights can be stripped away by these governments.

Here are a few examples to highlight what’s going on:

Republicans look to reverse new transgender student protections -https://t.ly/Yw4aX
Biden protections for LGBT students blocked in six more states -https://t.ly/OUEf4
House Republicans pass bill banning Pride flags & allowing anti-LGBTQ+ discrimination - https://t.ly/_HyZ7
How the trans culture wars came to New York -https://t.ly/6pX23

Along with being Rapid Response chair, I have also been the LGBTQ+ liaison and sharing information about various aspects of the community. (Please refer to this month’s article in that section). I am also currently a facilitator for a local support group called Scrambled Eggs, which is a Transgender/Trans Ally group that gets together once a week sharing personal stories, answering questions or more. Through these activities, I have learned a lot more about the issues than ever before and learned a lot about myself too.

Hopefully with some sources below and the call to action, you can be inspired to do the same and be a strong ally for your family, friends, and greater community.

Sources:

How to Signal You are an Ally in Hostile Environment -https://rb.gy/i0tcjy
20+ LGBTQ+ Organizations You Can Support Right Now - https://www.realsimple.com/worklife/lgbtq-organizations-to-donate

So, what can you do to make sure reproductive rights can be protected for all??

Educate yourself and others about LGBTQ+ issues and share this knowledge.
Volunteer for organizations that educate about LGBTQ+ rights such as PFLAG, The Trevor Project, and local organizations in your cities and states. Also join ally trainings.
Let the community know you are an ally by creating a safe space of support.
Write to your representative and senator (state and nationally)
Write a letter to the editor concerning your opinions about ant-transgender legislation and other LGBTQ+ issues of importance.
Post and share any information you come across on your social media platforms.
Host presentations and webinars in your local/affiliate BPW clubs educating the public about the community for being better allies.

Please connect with Sue Oser at rapidresponse@nfbpwc.org or the new chair when appointed after General Assembly for your thoughts, opinions, etc. and how the Rapid Response chair can do better.

Nominations Report – Candidates for 2024-2026 Term

Kemi Oyebade — Mon, 01 Jul 2024 16:50:00 GMT

By: Manjul Batra
NFBPWC Nominations Chair

The following Nominations have been received for the 2024-2026 NFBPWC offices.

President	Barbara Bozeman
	Kathy Kelly
First Vice-President of Membership	Maria DeSousa
Second Vice President of Advocacy	Emily VanVleck
	Susan Oser
Secretary	Nermin K. Ahmad
Treasurer	Jo C Naylor
Young BPW Representative	Doris Byrne Norris

Candidates for President

ELEVATE WOMAN IN ACTION

Vote Kathy Kelly For NFBPWC President

With a degree in Religious / Women’s Studies from the University of Colorado, Boulder, Kathy’s passion has always been to advocate for women and girls. She has served in many BPW positions, including president in her home state of Colorado and currently serving at the national level as vice president of membership. At the international level, Kathy has served as the BPW delegate to the United Nations Commission on the Status on Women (2013- present) and completed a three-year term on the Women for Water Partnership International

Steering Committee (www.womenforwater.org). She continues her involvement

with capacity-building projects for women and girls with the NGO www.Afghans4Tomorrow.org 2009-present.

Kathy splits her time between Personnel Profiles, volunteer work, her two grown children and four grandchildren. She enjoys skiing, hiking, Bronco games and concerts at Colorado's beautiful Red Rocks amphitheater.

BARBARA J. BOZEMAN

Focused on amplifying opportunities for our members.

Dedicated to fostering growth through innovative programs and strategic partnerships.

Committed to empowering members by bridging local and international connections, enabling them to thrive in all aspects of their lives.

Candidate for First Vice-President of Membership

Maria Cecilia DeSousa came to the United States of America in 1979. She began her college education at University of Wisconsin, Eau Claire and later received her Bachelor’s in Science degree in Biological Science (Medical Technology) with a minor in chemistry from California State University Sacramento and is a licensed Clinical Laboratory Scientist. Maria has a Master’s degree in Health Services Administration (MPA) from University of San Francisco. Maria is admitted into California State Bar and is licensed to practice law.

Maria is the immediate Past President for California Federation of Business and Professional Women and currently serves as the President for Berkeley Club of Business and Professional Women. She is on the Board of Directors and is the current co-President for the Indo-American Chamber of Commerce of Northern California.

Candidates for Second Vice-President of Advocacy

My name is Susan Oser and I hail from the great state of Michigan. I am running for Vice President of Advocacy. My theme and vision is “Advocating for others and yourself.” This means that I would like to see the membership get involved at the advocacy level but do it because they have either been personally touched by the issue or they are facing that issue. With the diverse issues out there, everyone has a story to share. Let that be your advocacy.

In addition, the theme also means to advocate for yourself with self-care. That means taking care of your health (both mentally and physically) and doing what is good for your own peace of mind. Advocating for others also means fighting for not only our population but also the marginalized and those that we can include in our fight for equality. The more numbers the better.

I am honored to be running for Vice President of Advocacy. I appreciate the support of my Michigan Affiliate sisters as well as those within the NFBPWC organization. My personal motto: Work hard, have fun, and embrace your true self.

Emily VanVleck

I've grown a lot in my years as a member and board member of NFBPWC. I am passionate about advocating for women's rights and look forward to continuing serving the organization as VP of Advocacy.

I'm inspired by the work of current VP of Advocacy, Daneene Monroe Rusnak, and have many plans to expand on the work she has done by joining coalitions and pushing for legislative changes that advance women's rights.

My ambition in this role is to strengthen the political power of NFBPWC and make us an active player in political decisions.

Candidate for Secretary

Nermin K. Ahmad

Over the past 6 years, I have had the honor of being the Secretary of the NYC Chapter for some two (2) years, and then the President for three and a half (3 ½) years. Throughout this period, I have been the rapporteur for the BPW United Nations NY Representatives, and a UN Representative – which has seen my election for two terms as Treasurer on the Executive Committee for the Committee on Migration, representing Civil Society at the UN, as well as the Convener for the Subcommittee on Xenophobia, Racism and Social Inclusion.

Candidate for Treasurer

Dr. Joanne Carfioli Naylor, a BPW member for 18 years and Speech-Language Pathologist is running for Treasurer. She has experience in bookkeeping, budget creation, and accurate financial reporting. Her goal is to provide accurate and timely financial support for all members and events.

Candidate for Young BPW

Bryn Norrie is a candidate for YBPW. She has been a member of BPW since 2021 and is

excited to (hopefully!) continue sharing BPW and its fantastic network of women with young women across the US. She currently lives in Washington D.C. and is working for a USAID implementing partner.

Immediate Past President Report

Kemi Oyebade — Mon, 01 Jul 2024 16:40:00 GMT

By: Sandra Thompson
NFBPWC’s Immediate Past President

This is my swan song article. As my time on the NFBPWC Executive Committee comes to a close, I want to extend my deepest gratitude to each of you. Serving on this EC over the past ten (10) years has been a profoundly rewarding experience, and I am grateful for the opportunity to have been part of such an extraordinary teams.

I am deeply appreciative of the support, camaraderie, and collaboration that have characterized our work together. The insights, expertise, and diverse perspectives each of you brought to the table have been invaluable. I have learned so much from you all, and I am grateful for the opportunity to have

worked alongside such a talented and committed group of individuals.

As I step down from the EC, I am confident that NFBPWC will continue to thrive and achieve great things under your capable leadership. I look forward to staying connected and supporting the organization in any way I can.

Thank you once again for the privilege of serving on the NFBPWC EC. I cherish the memories we have created and the impact we have made together.

NFBPWC Proposed Bylaws Amendments and Policies and Procedures

Kemi Oyebade — Mon, 01 Jul 2024 16:25:00 GMT

By: Email sent on Friday, June 14^th by Megan Shellman-Rickard
President of NFBPWC

In accordance with our bylaws, attached please find a copy of the proposed Bylaws amendments, proposed

Policies and Procedures amendments, and Bylaws Chair editorial changes to the Bylaws and Policies and Procedures. Please note that the editorial changes will automatically be integrated and will not be up for vote or discussion, as they are merely editorial.

Policies and Procedures Proposed Amendments 06.09.2024.pdf

Bylaws Chair Editorial Changes 06.09.2024.pdf

Please review all of these documents prior to the Biennial Conference July 19-21, 2024. Direct any questions or concerns to the Bylaws Chair, Trudy Waldroop, bylaws@nfbpwc.org.

An enormous thank you to the Bylaws Committee for their incredible work that has been done to bring our operating documents up to date. We appreciate your detailed efforts.

Only members who are registered to attend the Biennial Conference are eligible to vote on the proposed Bylaws Amendments. Proposed Policies and Procedures Amendments will be addressed at the Board of Directors meeting preceding the General Assembly. If you have not yet registered for the conference, here is a link for both the virtual and in-person registration options:

2024 NFBPWC Biennial Conference: Equality Has No Deadline!

We are hopeful that we will be able to efficiently address all of the proposed amendments in a timely and effective manner. As a reminder, our ability to move through the business of voting on amendments does hinge on whether or not members review these documents in advance of the Biennial Conference. Thank you to the membership for taking the responsibility of this to heart.

Together we are stronger!

Bylaws & Resolutions Report

Kemi Oyebade — Mon, 01 Jul 2024 16:20:00 GMT

By: Trudy Waldroop
Bylaws & Resolutions Chair, NFBPWC 2022-2024 (Email: ILoveBPW@yahoo.com) Bylaws@NFBPWC.org

For the past 6+ months the NFBPWC Bylaws/Resolutions Committee has been very busy comparing The

National Federation’s Bylaws with the Policies and Procedures (P&P) Manual to see if the two are congruent. After many e-mails and zoom meetings, we found that they are not. Therefore, there will be several proposed bylaws and P&P amendments to make the two documents agree with each other to be voted upon at the General Assembly in July. We also found many editorial changes: which are mandatory corrections but need not be voted upon.

On June 14 National Federation President Megan forwarded these three documents to all members via e-mail. (See NFBPWC Proposed Bylaws Amendments and Policies and Procedures below)

This chair thanks the hard-working and dedicated Bylaws/Resolutions Committee: NF Parliamentarian Sandy Thompson and Virtual Club President, who wears many other hats, Barbara Bozeman.

This was a challenge, but we all enjoyed doing it. It was a joy for this Chair to work with these ladies.

ERA Team Report

Kemi Oyebade — Mon, 01 Jul 2024 16:15:00 GMT

By: Nancy Werner
NFBPWC Advocacy Team ERA Lead

SIGN4ERA – May I encourage you AGAIN to take the time RIGHT NOW to sign onto this link. http://www.sign4ERA.org When you visit this site, there is much information given to you from the history, to the current work and why it is so important. We now have 96,500 supporters who have signed the petition. The most signers are in California, New York and Florida.

Please keep in touch with your Senators using the NFBPWC “One Click.”

May I introduce you again to the Alice Paul Institute, Mt. Laurel, New Jersey? They put out a publication that I find to be very important as I cover the ERA. They track so many happenings across the US.

They also keep tabs on who is sponsoring what bill that pertains to the ERA in the House and Senate and who has signed on to support it. It will give you a quick glance of your Congressperson or Senators stand on our ERA.

They have a section that you can click on that is called – “What Does the ERA Mean to YOU?” Here you have the opportunity to share your thoughts and provide a photo. Just wanted you to know about it.

https://www.alicepaul.org>programs

NFBPWC Proposed 2024-2026 Advocacy Platform

Kemi Oyebade — Mon, 01 Jul 2024 16:10:00 GMT

By: Email sent on Wednesday, June 19^th by Daneene Monroe Rusnak,
2^nd Vice President of Advocacy, NFBPWC 2020-2024

Dear NFBPWC members,

The Advocacy Committee is pleased to provide you with this copy of the proposed 2024 - 2026 Advocacy Platform which will be reviewed and voted on by the membership at the upcoming Biennial Conference. Please take a few moments to familiarize yourself with its contents before the conference. Please be aware that modifications to the proposed platform will only be made at the conference in accordance with the standing rules.

Many thanks to the California and Colorado Federations for putting forth suggestions in an effort to strengthen this document, and another HUGE thank you to the A-Team for their input, insights, and support in helping to prepare it for presentation at the Biennial Conference in July.

Proposed 2024 - 2026 NFBPWC Advocacy Platform .pdf

NATIONAL FEDERATION OF BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONAL WOMEN’S CLUBS (NFBPWC) ADVOCACY PLATFORM 2024 - 2026

NFBPWC will employ several education, advocacy, monitoring, and tracking strategies to meet the following priorities:

Human Rights – recognition that women’s rights are human rights

Support oThe Alice Paul Equal Rights Amendment. oPassage of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW).
- Equal rights for historically marginalized groups, encompassing, but not restricted to, Black, Indigenous, and LGBTQ+ individuals.
- Universal background checks for all firearm purchases. oThe Violence Against Women Act; especially when reauthorization is required. oFair and equal access to education, including sufficient funding for public education ranging from early childhood education to post-secondary / higher education. oPolicies and practices that promote environmental sustainability. oEmpower and enhance the well-being of military-affiliated women.
- Equitable treatment of any women who are arrested, detained, or incarcerated. oPrivacy rights of women, especially regarding their health, sexual and relationship history, and personal and digital data.
Eradicate Domestic Violence and Electronic and Physical stalking, sexual harassment, sexual abuse and discrimination.
Oppose human trafficking, sexual exploitation, and all forms of slavery.

Economic Equity and Justice

Support the elimination of Forced Arbitration as the sole means of dispute resolution.
Access to oEducation, training, and promotional opportunities. oEqual opportunities in the workplace and on corporate boards.
- Procurement procedures that facilitate opportunities for women-owned or women-led enterprises.
- Quality, affordable dependent care (child, elderly, or disabled). oFunding and capital for entrepreneurial activity.
- Affordable and attainable housing.

Health Equity and Justice

Support for reproductive justice.
Access to affordable reproductive healthcare; including but not limited to; contraception, assisted reproduction techniques, and abortion care.
Support for paid sick, family, and medical leave.
Elimination of gender bias in research funding.
Health education funding for women’s and girl’s health issues.
Prevention of discrimination against pregnancy and infant care in the workplace (e.g. reasonable accommodations for breastfeeding/breast pumping and other pregnancy /maternity conditions.)
Ensure workplace safety. •Expansion of mental health coverage and services.

The NFBPWC Executive Committee is proud to announce the inception of a new biennial membership award.

Introducing the Lena Madesin Phillips Distinguished Member Award

The Lena Madesin Phillips Distinguished Member Award has been established to be the most prestigious honor bestowed upon members of our organization. This award will recognize an individual who has demonstrated exceptional dedication, leadership, and impact within the organization and beyond. The recipient of this award is an exemplary role model who has significantly contributed to the advancement of our mission and has made a lasting and meaningful difference in the lives of others.

You now have the opportunity to be a part of history by nominating a memberto be considered for our very first Lena Madisen Phillips Distinguished Member Award; presented at our Biennial Conference. Please use the criteria below when considering your candidate.

*Nominations must be received by 11:59pm PT on July 8, 2024*

Nomination Criteria:

Candidates for the LMP Distinguished Member Award:

must be a current member of NFBPWC for at least 2 years, in good standing;
has made recent meaningful contributions to NFBPWC (via programming, advocacy, outreach, and leadership);
has exemplified and embodied the attributes consistent with the mission statement of the organization;

Please refrain from nominating current Executive Committee members or Affiliate, State, or Federation Presidents.

LGBTQ+ Team Report

Kemi Oyebade — Mon, 01 Jul 2024 16:10:00 GMT

By: Susan Oser
NFBPWC Advocacy Team LGBTQIA+ Lead

June started the summer of Pride in the United States. However, just because June has ended does not mean that Pride has ended. Some communities have their events through July, August, and September. Please try to visit at least one Pride event in or near your area to connect to the community and learn the LGBTQIA+ is all about.

Before we get to the information below, I just want to say that it has been an honor being your LGBTQ+ Liaison under the Advocacy Committee umbrella. I’ve recently had the honor to speak to the wonderful women of NFBPWC/PA Affiliate on Title IX and LGBTQ+ issues as well as through a JDEI webinar when they recently covered the topic of inclusion. I’ve had many compliments on my articles and how they have been educated on the issues as well as have felt comfortable enough to ask questions or talk about the subject. That really means a lot to me.

While I’m not sure what’s going to happen with this column after the General Assembly, I do hope it keeps going and you can be educated further on topics related to LGBTQ+ issues. If you have any questions or ideas, please do not hesitate to reach out to me.

LGBTQ+ Icon of the Month: Lorraine Hansberry Why highlight?

Lorraine Hansberry is a playwright, writer, and activist. She is well-known for the hit Broadway play-turned-film Raisin in the Sun. She was the first black woman to have the honor of her play being performed on Broadway. She was also very active in the civil rights movement. While she was married, she secretly had to “hide in the closet” and wrote about these things in unpublished manuscripts as well as in a publication called The Ladder, which is a periodical for the organization The Daughters of Bilities. Sadly, she passed away young at the age of 34 due to pancreatic cancer in 1965. Yet her words and her play still lives on.

Source(s) for more information:

The Daughters of Bilitis -https://guides.loc.gov/lgbtq-studies/before-stonewall/daughters-of-bilitis
Queer Portraits: Lorraine Hansberry -https://www.queerportraits.com/bio/hansberry
Making Gay History: The Podcast – Lorraine Hansberry - https://makinggayhistory.org/podcast/lorraine-hansberry/ Good LGBTQ+ News for July–
Good Reasons to Feel Proud around Pride -https://shorturl.at/j8hR2
These 20 LGBTQ+ news anchors & journalists are changing our worldviews - https://shorturl.at/3YE9N
Trans man wins $4.7 million from school district that didn’t let him use the restroom - https://shorturl.at/013aI And now for the BAD news:
SPLC Designates Genspect, SEGM As Anti-LGBTQ Hate Groups -https://shorturl.at/kU3bl
Trans Youth Suicides Covered Up By NHS, Cass After Restrictions, Say Whistleblowers - https://shorturl.at/BENhu
Utah lawmakers vote to block federal protections for LGBTQ+ students under Title IX - https://t.ly/mIMVM

If you have any news or leads on anything related to LGBTQ+ news, issues, and organizations, please contact Sue Oser at soser@nfbpwc.org or if/when a new liaison is selected after General Assembly.

Nominations Report

Kemi Oyebade — Tue, 04 Jun 2024 17:25:00 GMT

By: Manjul Batra
NFBPWC’s Nominations Chair

Call for NFBPWC Nominations

Is NFBPWC Leadership in Your Future?

The 2024 NFBPWC Biennial Conference, July 18-21, 2024, King of Prussia, PA is fast approaching. One of the most exciting things to happen at the Biennial General Assembly, is the election of National Officers for the 20242026! Nomination documents for elected offices are due in 30 days on June 15, 2024!An Election Committee will be created and any interested parties not running for an elected office, please contact Nominations Chair, Manul Batra, at nominations@nfbpwc.org. We look forward to welcoming all nominees at our Biennial Conference in July!

Please click on the link below to fill out the Nominations Document and email it to nominations@nfbpwc.org to be eligible to run for an elected office:

Nomination Documents GA 2024.docx

Additional information about Nominations and Elections for National Officers, 2024-2026

(From NFBPWC Bylaws Aug 2022)

The election of President, First Vice-President Membership, Second Vice-President Advocacy, Treasurer, Secretary, Young BPW Representative and Nominations Chairperson shall take place at the General Assembly and Biennial Conference. (Article XI, Section 1)

Officers shall be elected for a term of two years and will assume office at the close of the General Assembly and Biennial Conference. (Article XI, Section 2) President shall:

Be the Chief Executive Officer and spokesperson of The National Federation.
Serve on the BPW International Board of Directors.
Preside at the meetings of the Executive Committee, Board of Directors, General Membership, and Biennial General Assembly Conference.
Appoint a Parliamentarian, the Standing Committee Chairpersons, Special Committee Chairpersons and Task Forces subject to ratification by the Executive Committee.
Be an ex-officio member of all committees, except the Nominations Committee.

First Vice-president Membership shall:

Perform the duties of the President in her absence.
Chairs the Membership Standing Committee and liaises with the Nominations Chair, Small Business Chair, and the Mentoring Taskforce.
Perform other duties as assigned by the President or the Executive Committee.

Second Vice-president Advocacy shall:

Chair the Advocacy Standing Committee and liaises with the United Nations Chair, and the Elimination of Sexual Harassment Chair Chairperson(s).
Perform other duties as assigned by the President or the Executive Committee.

Treasurer shall:

Be the Chief Financial Officer of The National Federation.
Collect membership dues from the State Federations and Affiliate Chapter/clubs as indicated in their December 31st report and forward the Regional dues and International dues as required. Similarly, collect and process dues from the Individual Affiliate Members.
Be the custodian of the National Federation funds, maintain bank accounts and disburse payment for approved expenses within 15 days of receipt.
Provide financial reports at the National Federation Board of Directors’ meetings and year-end financial reports to the membership.
Maintain The Federation membership database.
Prepare and file state, federal and other fiduciary reports.
Perform other duties as assigned by the President or the Executive Committee.

Secretary shall:

Maintain the archives of The National Federation including records, contracts, and original documents of The National Federation.
Record the minutes of the Executive Committee, Board of Directors, General Assembly and Biennial Conference and distribute them for approval.
Serve as liaison to the Webmaster and the Bylaws/Resolutions Chair.
Perform other duties as assigned by the President or the Executive Committee (Article XII, Sections 1-5)

Young BPW:

A. Engage and work with other Young BPW members and represent their interests while working with the Executive Committee. (Bylaws not updated to reflect duties of this office.)

In order to be eligible to run for office a candidate (with the exception of Young BPW) must have served The National Federation in an elected or appointed capacity on a national, state, or affiliate chapter/club level for one year prior to the election. (Article X, Section 7).

Please send questions to Nominations Chair, Manjul Batra, at nominations@nfbpwc.org.

Feel free to email any current officer, listed below, to get more information on what they think about their years in service as an NFBPWC Executive Committee member.

Megan Shellman-Rickard, President president@nfbpwc.org

Kathy Kelly, VP Membership vpmembership@nfbpwc.org

Daneene Monroe-Rusnak vpadvocacy@nfbpwc.org

Sondra Nunez, Secretary secretary@nfbpwc.org

Emily VanVleck, Young BPW youngbpw@nfbpwc.org

Sandra Thompson, Immediate Past President immpastpresident@nfbpwc.org

Justice, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Report

Kemi Oyebade — Mon, 03 Jun 2024 17:20:00 GMT

By: Sher Singh
NFBPWC’s JDEI Chair, dei@nfbpwc.org

Dear Fellow BPW Sisters,

I am writing to all of you to invite you to a fantastic finale the JDEI committee is doing on Thursday, June 4, 2024 - 3PM Pacific and 6PM Eastern ON ZOOM. You can find the flyer below. Please share so everyone can register soon.

It is a wonderful opportunity for you to tell us what you have accomplished, created, engaged, vision for the next two years, etc.! As well we would like to share all we JDEI have done.

This is a true collaboration of work in our advocacy work. An example of diversity at its best.

The program will be relaxed, fun, sharing of ideas, a little activity, and much more. The only serious move is for us to have a fun time! I will also share a little treat from me.

I really hope you can mark your calendars and help me thank these wonderful committee members who dedicated so much consistent time and ideas to this committee. They have done an exceptional job!

Please share it with all your committee members and encourage them to attend. My goal is to have a large engagement to show success from a vision that President Megan, VP Daneene and I had and brought to fruition over 4 years ago.

I look forward to seeing you! Let us bring joy to getting together with laughter and hope for all we do for womankind!

International Relations Chair Report

Kemi Oyebade — Mon, 03 Jun 2024 17:15:00 GMT

By: Sandra Thompson,

NFBPWC’s International Chair, international@nfbpwc.org

The time for the BPW International Congress is fast approaching. It will be held November 17 to 21 in St. Kitts. Go to https://stkittscongress.bpwinternational.org/registrationfor more information.

Below is a summary of what is included and the cost for registration.

5 Days - Delegate / Member

Opening Ceremony, Regional Conferences, General Assembly, Panels, Workshops, Breakfast, Lunch & Coffee Breaks, at the Marriott.

NOTE: Gala Dinner and Farewell Dinner are not included in this ticket. 17 - 21 Nov 2024

Ticket Prices

Early Bird (until 15 July 2024)

Standard (until 15 Sept 2024) Late (until 15 Oct 2024)

Credit Card or Bank Transfer

900 EUR - Early Bird

1'100 EUR - Standard

1'250 EUR – Late

Gala Dinner $145 US

Farewell Dinner $150 US

We hope to see a lot of you there to enjoy a time to connect with you BPW sisters from around the world.

Public Relations Committee Report

Kemi Oyebade — Mon, 03 Jun 2024 17:10:00 GMT

By: Suzette Cotto

NFBPWC Public Relations Chair

Engage with NFBPWC on Social Media

Organization Page:

Group Page:

Organization Page:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2l_ciIxLyvbu1dbBOsV9Tg

YouTube:

Instagram:

Nomination Documents GA 2024.docx

Rapid Response Committee Report

Kemi Oyebade — Mon, 03 Jun 2024 16:55:00 GMT

By: Susan E. Oser

NFBPWC Rapid Response Committee Chair

Issues that will need your attention and need to be addressed. – Reproductive Rights

As Rapid Response chair, it is my job to keep my ear to the ground and eyes to the screen or otherwise on issues that I feel should not only be an issue for us personally, but also for your locals to discuss or have a special educational presentation on.

This month, it’s about Reproductive Rights.

Since the repeal of Roe vs. Wade, many states have put laws into place ranging from outright abortion bans to bans on IVF. Below are some stories to give you an example:

Why do we need EMTALA (the Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act)? - https://tinyurl.com/43cxnf2y
Zombie Comstock Law Threatens Abortion...and Much More -https://tinyurl.com/yc5v7d75
More than half of Black women ages 15-49 live with little to no abortion access - https://www.nbcnews.com/news/nbcblk/57-percent-black-women-abortion-bans-restictionsrcna151972

As these example articles show, women need support and protection more than ever. It’s not just about having a baby, but what is best for a woman to do what she needs to with her body. If you have a story, please tell it.

The more you tell your story and share your experience the better.

So, what can you do to make sure reproductive rights can be protected for all??

Get involved and sit in on meetings or webinars as time allows.
Volunteer for organizations that educate about reproductive rights.
Write to your representative and senator (state and nationally)
Write a letter to the editor.
Post and share any information you come across on your social media platforms.
Host presentations and webinars in your local/affiliate BPW clubs.

Please connect with Sue Oser at rapidresponse@nfbpwc.org if you have any ideas on topics that should be focused on and discussed as we get into the big election cycle or you feel have not been addressed in this article. In future articles, I’ll be focusing on each of these (and any others suggested by you) for a better understanding and education of the issues.

Lifelong, Leadership & Learning Report

Kemi Oyebade — Mon, 03 Jun 2024 16:45:00 GMT

Three Lifelong Leadership & Learning Webinars

FREE ~ Open to All Registration Open!

Zoom: April 23, May 28, June 25

7:00 PM to 8:00 PM Eastern Time (register for each event)

Presented by Kathy Kelly, NFBPWC Vice President and Nancy Werner, NFBPWC Facilitator

These facilitator-led education and training webinars build relevant personal and professional leadership skills to keep you current in the workplace, community, and the world. Funded and sponsored by BPW/MD, these courses are updated versions of the Individual Development Program (IDP) that was offered to BPW members years ago. NFBPWC's Lifelong Leadership & Learning (L3) Committee has worked hard to bring us these current modules.

Tuesday, June 25: Being an Effective Negotiator - Learn how to negotiate in every human interaction including dealing with difficult situations and people. Negotiation theory, elements, techniques, and practice scenarios. Negotiate your position, your salary, and your future with confidence. Register at: https://nfbpwc.wildapricot.org/event-5708553

Bylaws & Resolutions Report

Kemi Oyebade — Mon, 03 Jun 2024 16:25:00 GMT

By: Trudy Waldroop
Bylaws & Resolutions Chair, NFBPWC 2022-2024 (Email: ILoveBPW@yahoo.com) Bylaws@NFBPWC.org

The Bylaws/Resolutions Committee is winding up their “project”.

For the past 6 months we have been very busy comparing the National Federation’s Bylaws with the Policies and Procedures Manual to see if the two are congruent. In several incidents they are not. Therefore, there will be several proposed Bylaws and Policies and Procedures Manual amendments to be presented at the General Assembly in July. We also found many editorial changes/corrections: which are mandatory but are not voted upon.

Look for the proposals in the July e-magazine issue and/or your personal e-mail box.

This chair is very proud of the hard-working and committed Bylaws/Resolutions Committee: NF Parliamentarian Sandy Thompson and Virtual Club President, who wears many other hats, Barbara Bozeman. It is truly a joy to work with them.

ERA Team Report

Kemi Oyebade — Mon, 03 Jun 2024 16:20:00 GMT

By: Nancy Werner
NFBPWC Advocacy Team ERA Lead

Partner Organization Meeting

On May 2, the ERA Coalition Partner Organizations Meeting was held. This is a summary of their first meeting.

Electoral Working Group is one of four ERA Working Groups that’s part of the ERA Coalition revamped structure. The other working groups are: Communication, Public Education and Civic Engagement.
The Working Group identifies the several areas ERA messaging during the 2024 election cycle: Linking sex equality with democracy and voting. Not voting is not a statement, it is silence, our opposition will be voting; Abortion is an issue that ERA supporters care about and so do many other potential ERA allies; the ERA is already ratified and still unpublished.
The Working Group is an integral component of the 2024 Elect Equality campaign to make sex equality and the Equal Rights Amendment defining issues in the upcoming elections.
We are looking to identify partners to expand the Elect Equality campaign and broaden our collective reach.
Working Group members along with other ERA Coalition partners, are encouraged to work in coordination to develop materials and tools for candidates that express sex equality and broaden public awareness and increase voter education and participation.

Elect Equality 2024

Elect Equality 2024, with a launch date of July 4, links sex equality with democracy and voting.
Elect Equality seeks to make sex equality and the Equal Rights Amendment defining issues in the upcoming elections.
Elect Equality is an online tool that allows voters to look up their candidates for federal office and ensure they are voting for the ERA-supporting candidates in the November election.
In 2022, state ERA advocates conducted Elect Equality activities in Arizona, Minnesota and North Carolina.
Reach out to Bettina Hager at bhager@eracoalition.org

Now there are a few more items to share but I will hold them for the July edition.

Please keep in touch with your Senators using the NFBPWC “One Click.”

Yes, this is a repeat of last month but if you would love to get in the news, here is an opportunity of a lifetime….and attending the Biennial Conference in King of Prussia, PA will offer to you another opportunity to visit the Alice Paul Institute at Paulsdale. Check it out on the www.nfbpwc.org under Events. PA Affiliate Chapter would love to have you!

LGBTQ+ Team Report

Kemi Oyebade — Mon, 03 Jun 2024 16:15:00 GMT

By: Susan Oser, NFBPWC Advocacy Team LGBTQIA+ Lead

June starts the summer of Pride and Pride Month is big in the United States. Try to visit at least one Pride event in or near your area to connect to the community and learn the LGBTQIA+ is all about. Have fun and stay safe!

LGBTQ+ Icon of the Month:

Eleanor Roosevelt

Why highlight?

Not only is she known to be the wife of former U.S. President Franklin D.

Roosevelt, but she was also an activist in her own right. In addition, there has been research that states that she had a tight knit circle of friends, including a few lesbians (who had to still be closeted at the time). Sure, this might be controversial, and some of you may not believe this fact to be true. However, in Eleanor’s case, she is a good example of the time when one had to hide in the closet. We must remember though that her lifestyle, like anyone’s lifestyle should not be a determinant as to the kind of person she was and how she was such a powerful figure in the United States at the time of her husband’s presidency.

Source(s) for more information:

24 Very Gay Excerpts from Eleanor Roosevelt’s Love Letters with Lorena Hickok - https://www.autostraddle.com/24-very-gay-excerpts-from-eleanor-roosevelts-love-letters-withlorena-hickok-346115/
Eleanor Roosevelt’s Controversial Love Letters to Lorena Hickok - https://www.themarginalian.org/2012/10/11/eleanor-roosevelt-lorena-hickok-lo ve-letters/
Eleanor Roosevelt on the Power of Personal Conviction and Our Individual Responsibility in Social Change -https://www.themarginalian.org/2016/05/02/eleanor-roosevelt-tomorrow-is-now/

Good LGBTQ+ News for June –

Mental Health and Access to Care for LGBTQ+ Girls and Young Women - https://tinyurl.com/5aa9urd9
20 LGBTQ+ Organizations You Can Support Right Now - https://www.realsimple.com/worklife/lgbtq-organizations-to-donate
A journey through love: 25 noteworthy LGBTQ+ romance movies -https://tinyurl.com/bdej6ewb And now for the BAD news:
State Department, FBI, and DHS warn of potential attacks on Pride events worldwide. - https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-69013313?eType=EmailBlastContent&eId=2b94829841ab-46d8-ae0c-aeef05688f0b
Girl turned away from Florida public school prom because she wore a suit - https://tinyurl.com/473jj3e3

If you have any news or leads on anything related to LGBTQ+ news, issues, and organizations, please contact Sue Oser at soser@nfbpwc.org

Member Spotlight

Kemi Oyebade — Mon, 03 Jun 2024 16:05:00 GMT

Sylvana H. Abbas was born in Beirut, Lebanon. She has an MBA from Holy University of Kaslik-Lebanon. She was a professional volleyball player; was a Girl Scout; then became a leader of Cub Scouts. Sylvana was also a member of Lions Club. She moved to the States in 1988. It wasn’t easy to find a decent job with no experience, nor references. With determination and perseverance, she started working at a major American company (Yazaki Corporation) and was in charge of customer service and logistics.

I had the opportunity to travel to Japan, Thailand and Mexico. Then landed a job at a Fortune-100 company (Cardinal Health Care), and became the Operations-Materials Manager.

Sylvana has 25+ years of experience in Supply Chain Management, Lean Systems, and Global Operations. Her leadership is influenced and founded on solid business management experience, 360-communication style, and teamwork approach. Her expertise is based on actionable knowledge of production & service planning, procurement management, and cost management.

She is a Lean Six Sigma Sponsor with above average negotiation skills, in-depth and global trade deployment. She has a very personable and approachable personality. She speaks, reads, and writes in Arabic and English and moderate language skills in Spanish.

Sylvana is currently self-employed as an Operations Business Consultant and as a Certified Life Coach.

The Highlight of my BPW experience when I was honored and privileged to represent BPW-Lebanon, President Ms. Carmen Zogheib, at the CSW68 - United Nations in New York. The project that I presented: “Micro Sewing Livelihood Empowerment Project,” was born out of a massive blast in the port of Beirut on August 4^th, 2020. This project wouldn’t have seen the light if it wasn’t for Ms. Carol Hanlon.

What year did you join BPW? 2020
WHY did you join BPW? I liked the main goal of this organization: Empowering Women to foster collaborative thinking to further drive workplace innovation. Help them grow organically and foster a consumer-first mindset.
HOW has BPW helped your career and personal lifestyle? It has expanded my horizon, and allowed me to assist the organization, especially during the Pandemic and Economy crash in Lebanon.
What wisdom can you pass on to other members? Be respectful, Be kind, Be compassionate with every person you encounter regardless of their ethnicity, religion, and business status.
How does BPW benefit by having you as a member? I bring to the organization my professional business management experience. I am a multi-cultural person, speak, write and read fluently Arabic and French. I am in the process of starting a Non-Profit Organization that will support Middle Eastern students abroad.

Nominations Report

Kemi Oyebade — Mon, 03 Jun 2024 05:20:00 GMT

By: Manjul Batra
NFBPWC’s Nominations Chair

Call for NFBPWC Nominations

Is NFBPWC Leadership in Your Future?

Please click on the link below to fill out the Nominations Document and email it to nominations@nfbpwc.org to be eligible to run for an elected office:

Additional information about Nominations and Elections for National Officers, 2024-2026

(From NFBPWC Bylaws Aug 2022)

Officers shall be elected for a term of two years and will assume office at the close of the General Assembly and Biennial Conference. (Article XI, Section 2) President shall:

Be the Chief Executive Officer and spokesperson of The National Federation.
Serve on the BPW International Board of Directors.
Preside at the meetings of the Executive Committee, Board of Directors, General Membership, and Biennial General Assembly Conference.
Appoint a Parliamentarian, the Standing Committee Chairpersons, Special Committee Chairpersons and Task Forces subject to ratification by the Executive Committee.
Be an ex-officio member of all committees, except the Nominations Committee.

First Vice-president Membership shall:

Perform the duties of the President in her absence.
Chairs the Membership Standing Committee and liaises with the Nominations Chair, Small Business Chair, and the Mentoring Taskforce.
Perform other duties as assigned by the President or the Executive Committee.

Second Vice-president Advocacy shall:

Chair the Advocacy Standing Committee and liaises with the United Nations Chair, and the Elimination of Sexual Harassment Chair Chairperson(s).
Perform other duties as assigned by the President or the Executive Committee.

Treasurer shall:

Be the Chief Financial Officer of The National Federation.
Collect membership dues from the State Federations and Affiliate Chapter/clubs as indicated in their December 31st report and forward the Regional dues and International dues as required. Similarly, collect and process dues from the Individual Affiliate Members.
Be the custodian of the National Federation funds, maintain bank accounts and disburse payment for approved expenses within 15 days of receipt.
Provide financial reports at the National Federation Board of Directors’ meetings and year-end financial reports to the membership.
Maintain The Federation membership database.
Prepare and file state, federal and other fiduciary reports.
Perform other duties as assigned by the President or the Executive Committee.

Secretary shall:

Maintain the archives of The National Federation including records, contracts, and original documents of The National Federation.
Record the minutes of the Executive Committee, Board of Directors, General Assembly and Biennial Conference and distribute them for approval.
Serve as liaison to the Webmaster and the Bylaws/Resolutions Chair.
Perform other duties as assigned by the President or the Executive Committee (Article XII, Sections 1-5)

Young BPW:

A. Engage and work with other Young BPW members and represent their interests while working with the Executive Committee. (Bylaws not updated to reflect duties of this office.)

Please send questions to Nominations Chair, Manjul Batra, at nominations@nfbpwc.org.

Feel free to email any current officer, listed below, to get more information on what they think about their years in service as an NFBPWC Executive Committee member.

Megan Shellman-Rickard, President president@nfbpwc.org

Kathy Kelly, VP Membership vpmembership@nfbpwc.org

Daneene Monroe-Rusnak vpadvocacy@nfbpwc.org

Sondra Nunez, Secretary secretary@nfbpwc.org

Emily VanVleck, Young BPW youngbpw@nfbpwc.org

Sandra Thompson, Immediate Past President immpastpresident@nfbpwc.org

International Relations Chair Report

Kemi Oyebade — Wed, 01 May 2024 17:10:00 GMT

By: Sandra Thompson, NFBPWC’s International Chair, international@nfbpwc.org

International Congress is coming in November. See the following message from International President Dr. Catherine Bosshart

It gives me immense pleasure to invite you, delegates, leaders and members, to attend the XXXI BPW International Congress to be held from 17 to 21 November 2024 at St. Kitts Marriott Resort and The Royal Beach Casino. We hope to bring together all delegates and members of Affiliate Federations and Clubs, and all

Individual Members from across the world to this global assembly to align with the

theme of this triennium – New Actions Through Cooperation. This exceptional gathering promises to strengthen bonds between leaders in business, government and civil society to accelerate progress for all women and their families worldwide.

Today we kicked things off with the Call to Congress. Read the invitation to the Congress carefully, it contains very important information that you will need for your active participation. In 8 months, we will meet in St. Kitts. Surf our congress website, visit the hotels virtually, read the notes on travel preparations and let your enthusiasm carry you away.

Our International Congress is our Triennial Assembly of Delegates. We will have to deal

with the business of our international federation and discuss and decide on important issues for the future in order to send our federation on its journey into the next triennium. But we will also have time to get to know each other and make friends across all borders. And we will get to know a small island paradise in the Caribbean that welcomes us with great hospitality.

Be our guest and congress participant and discover our association up close and in all its

diversity. We wish you a warm welcome!

Dr. Catherine Bosshart

BPW President 2021-2024

To get more information please visit the website at https://stkittscongress.bpw-international.org/

Public Relations Committee Report

Kemi Oyebade — Wed, 01 May 2024 17:05:00 GMT

By: Suzette Cotto

NFBPWC Public Relations Chair

Engage with NFBPWC on Social Media

Organization Page:

Group Page:

Organization Page:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2l_ciIxLyvbu1dbBOsV9Tg

YouTube:

Instagram:

Rapid Response Committee Report

Kemi Oyebade — Wed, 01 May 2024 16:50:00 GMT

By: Susan E. Oser, NFBPWC Rapid Response Committee Chair

Issues that will need your attention and need to be addressed. – Focus on Voting Rights

Last month I mentioned three big issues that will be big political footballs this year to keep your eye out for. This month, I’d like to focus on voting rights and why they matter for ALL of us.

Voting as we all know is our fundamental civil right. However, there are some states and some communities that don’t really think so. Because of this, organizations like the ACLU have helped with lawsuits that have taken governments to court.

Here is a Michigan situation related to redistricting and drawing maps:

A three-judge federal court panel agreed on new boundaries to be drawn by the Michigan Independent Citizens Redistricting Commission (MICRC) for some state House seats. In December, a federal court determined that the redrawn map affected the black voting power that is strong within the city of Detroit (which is 77% African American). Thus MICRC was ordered to literally go back to the “drawing board.”

Source: https://tinyurl.com/yr55fafc

Nationally, at the capital, the Freedom to Vote Act (S.1) and the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act (S.4) are in a holding pattern. If passed, these bills would protect voting rights, stop voter suppression and gerrymandering, reform our campaign finance system, and safeguard our election security from a federal level. The Senate has voted a few times to move these bills forward but have been blocked by the minority party.

The League of Women Voters has more information on Voting Rights at the National Level here:

Support the Expansion of Voting Rights -https://tinyurl.com/56azjcfd

Tell Democrats and Republicans to Work Together on Voting Rights -https://tinyurl.com/ye2xe8fv

Urge Your Members of Congress to Support the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act - https://tinyurl.com/mshh2sbr

So, what can you do to make sure you have voting rights in your state while supporting others?

Get involved and sit in on meetings or webinars as time allows.
Volunteer for organizations that fight for voting rights.
Write to your representative and senator (state and nationally)
Write a letter to the editor.
Post and share any information you come across on your social media platforms.
Host presentations and webinars in your local/affiliate BPW clubs.

Health Committee Report

Kemi Oyebade — Wed, 01 May 2024 16:45:00 GMT

Keri Hess Laursen, NFBPWC Health Committee Chair, Downtown Sacramento Member Health@NFBPWC.org

Congratulations to the Health Committee and Virtual member, Dr. Karla Kurrelmeyer, for another successful Heart of a Woman conference in partnership with Houston Methodist Hospital. Additional gratitude to PR Chair, Suzette Cotto, for supporting NFBPWC and attending in person. We are grateful our BPW community and connections that help to make us stronger together.

The Health Committee currently meets the 2nd Monday of each month at 5pm PDT.

Please email Keri at: health@nfbpwc.org to inquire about serving as co-chair or to get on the Health Committee listserv.

ERA Team Report

Kemi Oyebade — Wed, 01 May 2024 16:15:00 GMT

By: Nancy Werner, NFBPWC Advocacy Team ERA Lead

EQUAL RIGHTS AMENDMENT

100^th ANNIVERSARY MARCH

When I last wrote, I shared the latest news on the Equal Rights Amendment would be with Senator Kirsten Gillibrand-D New York. She has placed into the Senate bills – S J Res 39 calling for the Archivist to publish the ERA. On March 3, she spoke at a luncheon for the need for the ERA because of its ability to protect reproduction rights.

So now in April, we read the Equal Means Equal group held a gathering in the city of West Hollywood. They invited the Mayor John Erikson and their Women’s Advisory Board to launch a new initiative- “Make the Call, Joe!” Call the US Archivist and tell her to publish the ERA. Everybody benefits when we put equality first. Let’s make the Equal Rights Amendment a reality and no longer send it to voicemail.

The Archivist is Collen Joy Shogan and she took office on May 17, 2023. She succeeds Mr. Ferrerio upon his retirement in 2022. Now we know that Article V of the Constitution states an amendment becomes valid upon ratification of the 38^th state. But here is where things become unclear. The archivist merely confirms the completion of the constitutionally mandated ratification process but does not necessarily render the amendment valid.

Congress is the key to having the ERA submitted as a Constitutional amendment. As I have been researching the process, it is not straightforward or clear. Research has shown different paths to find ratification for each Constitutional Amendment. Not that I like what I am reading, but I will continue my findings and be back.

SIGN4ERA– May I encourage you AGAIN to take the time RIGHT NOW to sign onto this link. http://www.sign4ERA.org When you visit this site, there is much information given to you from the history to the current work and why it is so important to all of us.

I just received my correspondence from this group as they share the urgency of telling all our families, neighbors, coworkers to sign on. The signature numbers are still rising to over 91,000 but we need more! Lots more.

Please keep in touch with your Senators using the NFBPWC “One Click.”

Lastly, may I introduce you to the Alice Paul Institute, Mt. Laurel, New Jersey. A favorite place of mine and yes, we are taking a field trip there during our Biennial Conference. You don’t want to miss this opportunity of a lifetime.

But they put out a publication that I find to be very important as I cover the ERA. They track so many happenings across the US and share just like I do for you. In fact, I used some of their findings by sharing with you.

But right now they have a section that you can click on that is called - ”What Does the ERA Mean to YOU?” Here you have the opportunity to share your thoughts and provide a photo. Just wanted you to know about it. https://www.alicepaul.org>programs Take an early visit to the Alice Paul Institute. I know you will enjoy it!

Bylaws & Resolutions Report

Kemi Oyebade — Wed, 01 May 2024 16:15:00 GMT

By: Trudy Waldroop, Bylaws & Resolutions Chair, NFBPWC 2022-2024 (Email: ILoveBPW@yahoo.com) Bylaws@NFBPWC.org

Reminder:

LGBTQ+ Team Report

Kemi Oyebade — Wed, 01 May 2024 16:10:00 GMT

By: Susan Oser, NFBPWC Advocacy Team LGBTQIA+ Lead

LGBTQ+ Icon of the Month: Sally K. Ride

Why highlight?

Sally K. Ride became the first American woman to travel into space in June 1993. She was

also an engineer, physicist (as well as professor of physics at the University of California, San Diego, and director of the California Space Institute. Her mission was to get kids engaged in the sciences. Former President Obama honored Sally with a Presidential Medal of Freedom posthumously. She kept her personal life private but after she passed away in 2012, it was revealed that she was in a relationship with a woman for over 27 years, which never mattered until after her death.

Source(s) for more information:

Jacket, In-Flight Suit, Shuttle, Sally Ride, STS-7 -https://tinyurl.com/y59rc9kk
These Queer Icons Will Be the First LGBTQ+ People Featured on U.S. Currency - https://www.them.us/story/first-lgbtq-people-featured-us-currency-sally-ride-nina-otero-warren
Earth to Ben Shapiro: Lesbians Have Already Been to Space -https://www.them.us/story/benshapiro-lesbians-astronauts

Good LGBTQ+ News for May –

A case for the ERA: Marriage equality - https://eracoalition.org/2023/12/27/a-case-for-the-eramarriage-equality/
How two legendary lesbians inspired a culinary oasis in the California desert - https://tinyurl.com/5n7wf4kp- Alice B. Toklas and Gertrude Stein served as inspiration for Alice B., a new venture by restaurateurs Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger.
Beastie Boys paid for trans woman’s gender-affirming surgery -https://tinyurl.com/97p66d84- She kickstarted their career. They helped her start a new life.
Dawn Staley just won another title — and still had time to stand up for trans athletes - https://tinyurl.com/2w56nun6- South Carolina's Dawn Staley took her place among other legends of women’s sports who support trans inclusion in women’s sports.

And now for the BAD news:

Trans folks are peeing in bottles & avoiding water to dodge harassment under Florida’s bathroom law -https://tinyurl.com/43xw8r3a- Residents have taken it upon themselves to police restrooms, traumatizing trans folks and often incorrectly enforcing the law.
Vatican blasts gender-affirming surgery, surrogacy and gender theory as violations of human dignity -https://tinyurl.com/y8t5prxf- The Vatican’s doctrine office issued “Infinite Dignity,” a 20page declaration that has been in the works for five years. After substantial revision in recent months, it was approved March 25 by Pope Francis, who ordered its publication.

If you have any news or leads on anything related to LGBTQ+ news, issues, and organizations, please contact Sue Oser at soser@nfbpwc.org

International Relations Chair Report

Kemi Oyebade — Mon, 01 Apr 2024 17:25:00 GMT

By: Sandra Thompson, NFBPWC’s International Chair, international@nfbpwc.org

A huge thank you to our Canadian BPW

Sisters for allowing me to be a part of their delegation to the United Nations for the Commission on the Status of Women. It was certainly a busy and exciting week.

I had the privilege to attend several Parallel and Side events. The side events were held

inside the United Nations and parallel events in various venues outside the UN. I also, attend virtually a Town Hall meeting with the Secretary General, Antonio Guterres. He is from Portugal.

I attended our Parallel Event on

Global Collaboration to Tackle Period Poverty which was co-sponsored with our Canadian BPW Sisters.

We had a wonderful turnout. Emily VanVleck did an outstanding job in introducing the subject and guiding the panel. Hopefully you were able to attend. It will be available on our website soon.

I also attended an event put on by the International BPW Young BPWs. The title of their event was The Role of Entrepreneurs/Professional in Addressing Poverty and Empowering Women.

One of the speakers was our own Djenabou Bah who has started her own Travel Agency.

Besides these two I attended several others which were most informative. I encourage you all to attend either in person or virtually next year. There are two weeks of many wonderful events. All of the online events are free. It is a great experience.

April Highlights in US Women’s History

Kemi Oyebade — Mon, 01 Apr 2024 17:15:00 GMT

April Highlights in US Women’s History

April 2, 1931 – 17-year-old Jackie Mitchell, the second woman to play baseball in the all-male minor leagues, pitches an exhibition game against the N.Y. Yankees and strikes out both Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig. The next day, the Baseball Commissioner voided her contract, claiming baseball was too strenuous for women. The ban was not overturned until 1992
April 5, 1911 – 100,000 to 500,000 people march in New York City to attend the funeral of seven unidentified victims of the Triangle Shirtwaist Company fire in late March
April 7, 1805 – Sacagawea begins helping the Lewis and Clark Expedition as an interpreter
April 7, 1987 – Opening of the National Museum of Women in the Arts in Washington, D.C., the first museum devoted to women artists
April 9, 1939 – Marian Anderson sings an Easter Sunday concert for more than 75,000 at Lincoln Memorial
April 13, 1933 – Ruth Bryan Owen is the first woman to represent the U.S. as a foreign minister when she is appointed as envoy to Denmark
April 16, 1912 – Harriet Quimby becomes the first woman to fly an airplane across the English Channel
April 19, 1977 – Fifteen women in the House of Representatives J^ACKIE M^ITCHELLform the Congressional Caucus for Women’s Issues
April 22 – Earth Day, honor Rachel Carson today, a woman who changed America and greatly influenced the environmental movement with her revolutionary book, Silent Spring
April 23 – Barbara Johns Day in Virginia. Barbara Johns as a high school led a walk out to of Moton High School in Farmville, Virginia, to protest unequal conditions. Hers was one of the cases that led to the 1954 Brown v. Board of Education Supreme Court decision that called for integration of public schools.
April 26, 1777 – American Revolution heroine Sybil Ludington, 16 years old, rides 40 miles on horseback in the middle of the night to warn the American militia that the British were invading
April 28, 1993 – First “Take Our Daughters to Work” Day, sponsored by the Ms. Foundation, in 2003 it became “Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work” Day

(Source: https://nationalwomenshistoryalliance.org/april/)

Public Relations Committee Report

Kemi Oyebade — Mon, 01 Apr 2024 17:05:00 GMT

By: Suzette Cotto

NFBPWC Public Relations Chair

Engage with NFBPWC on Social Media

Organization Page:

Group Page:

Organization Page:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2l_ciIxLyvbu1dbBOsV9Tg

YouTube:

Instagram:

Rapid Response Committee Report

Kemi Oyebade — Mon, 01 Apr 2024 17:00:00 GMT

By: Susan E. Oser, NFBPWC Rapid Response Committee Chair

Issues that will need your attention and need to be addressed.

As Rapid Response chair, it is my job to keep my ear to the ground and eyes to the screen or otherwise on issues that I feel should not only be an issue for us personally but also for your locals to discuss or have a special educational presentation on. The following are a few that I recommend (please note that these are my opinions and do not necessarily represent NFBPWC views or advocacy platform) we all need to pay attention to…especially during this election year:

Voting Rights –

With primaries, local elections and local issues already being voted on, some places have already had issues. This will be of big concern during our key presidential election this year. There are also issues with gerrymandering and changing voting districts. Some of these have already seen court dates with more to come.

Reproductive Rights –

We have already seen in Alabama the concern of what life is defined as and how this issue affects IVF treatment. There have been calls on various fronts to block access to abortion rights, IVF, and other reproductive health care that if passed can have detrimental consequences to women’s health. Reproductive Freedom is a hot issue that is bringing out the vote and should be a hot issue bringing our voices to the table.

LGBTQIA+ Issues –

The LGBTQIA+ community has become the latest political football and excuse to discriminate for no reason, other than political points from one side of the aisle. This is especially true of our transgender brothers and sisters. The recent news of Nex Benedict’s tragedy and the over 300+ anti-trans legislation laws should give us pause to not only educate ourselves but also support a community that has really faced a lot within the last year.

Health Committee Report

Kemi Oyebade — Mon, 01 Apr 2024 16:55:00 GMT

Keri Hess Laursen, NFBPWC Health Committee Chair, Downtown Sacramento Member Health@NFBPWC.org

The Health Committee is seeking a co-chair, no experience required!

The Health Committee currently meets the 2nd Monday of each month at 5pm PDT.

Please email Keri at: health@nfbpwc.org to inquire about serving as co-chair or to get on the Health Committee listserv.

Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Report

Kemi Oyebade — Mon, 01 Apr 2024 16:45:00 GMT

By: Sher Singh, NFBPWC’s JDEI Chair, dei@nfbpwc.org

This Report covers all that this committee has done so far. The JDEI committee has met every month in 2023 with two workshops. We have had meeting and presentations in 2024 also listed below:

February 2, 2023, Resilience: Conflict Resolution, Financial & Security in Life.
Then we began the series of presentations using the acronym JDEI one letter at a time. We did - JUSTICE: Violence Against Women – Under the Light of Justice.
August 28, 2023, we did – Looking at the D in Diversity – The Pillars of Diversity.
January 11, 2024, Equity for Women in the Workplace.
February 2, 2024, we did a workshop on Grief – No Time Limit – Stages are Phases of Acceptance and Hope.
May 9, 2024, we plan to present our final letter in the acronym Inclusion - (to be named)
June 4, 2024, will be our JDEI final presentation – A celebration of Committees.

Bylaws & Resolutions Report

Kemi Oyebade — Mon, 01 Apr 2024 16:25:00 GMT

By: Trudy Waldroop, Bylaws & Resolutions Chair, NFBPWC 2022-2024 (Email: ILoveBPW@yahoo.com) Bylaws@NFBPWC.org

B Y L A W S Part 3

What is the difference between bylaws amendments and a bylaws revision?

Amendments

Amendments are the changes made to words or sentences, or entire paragraphs, sections or an Article in your organization’s bylaws.

There is a separate Article in every organization’s bylaws titled Amendments. In it are the procedures to propose a bylaws change, who can propose a change, at what meeting they will be voted upon, how many days before they are to be voted upon, to whom the proposed change goes to, and that every member must directly receive a copy of the proposed change along with the rationale.

Revision

A revision is a major change in bylaws. Preparation of a proposed revision is ordered by an organization when the amendments needed are so extensive that they warrant redo of a major portion of, or all of, the bylaws. Consideration of the committee’s proposed revision requires the same notice that amendments do. Everything in the proposed revision is subject to amendment by the assembly. The amended proposal, if adopted, replaces the “old” bylaws.

Bylaw amendments can be found in Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised sec 57, page 560.

Reminder:

Deadline to submit proposed amendment/s to the NF Bylaws is May 20, 2024

Also amendments to the Policy and Procedures Manual are due by May 20, 2024.

Send to the Bylaws Chair Trudy Waldroop at (ILoveBPW@yahoo.com)

ERA Team Report

Kemi Oyebade — Mon, 01 Apr 2024 16:20:00 GMT

By: Nancy Werner, NFBPWC Advocacy Team ERA Lead
EQUAL RIGHTS AMENDMENT 100^th ANNIVERSARY MARCH

The latest news on the Equal Rights Amendment would be with Senator Kirsten Gillibrand-D New York. She has placed into the Senate bills - SJRes 39 calling for the Archivist to publish the ERA. On March 3, she spoke at a luncheon for the need for the ERA because of its ability to protect repro rights. She was wearing the “Biden Publish the ERA” button for the second half of the luncheon.

She has shared that she is working very carefully to have President Biden instruct the Archivist to publish. Publication needs to happen ASAP to stem the flood of cases rolling back women’s rights.

The Archivist is Collen Joy Shogan, and she took office on May 17, 2023. She succeeds Mr. Ferrerio upon his retirement in 2022. We need to be sending our messages to our President Biden encouraging him to tell our Archivist to sign the ERA amendment as our 28^th amendment to the Constitution.

SIGN4ERA– May I encourage you AGAIN to take the time

RIGHT NOW to sign onto this link. http://www.sign4ERA.org When you visit this site, there is much information given to you from the history to the current work and why it is so important to all of us.

I just received my correspondence from this group as they share the urgency of telling all our families, neighbors, coworkers to sign on. Presently there are 91,000 signatures but we need more! Lots more.

Please keep in touch with your Senators using the NFBPWC “One Click.”

LGBTQ+ Team Report

Kemi Oyebade — Mon, 01 Apr 2024 16:15:00 GMT

By: Susan Oser, NFBPWC Advocacy Team LGBTQIA+ Lead
LGBTQ+ Icon of the Month: Dorian CoreyWhy highlight?

Dorian Corey was a prominent black fashion designer in the 1970s and 80s. She was drag

queen who sought to find a way to bring the drag queen style to what we know of it today: big, bold, and beautiful. She was infamously known for using feathers, beads, and sequins in her designs. As result, these designs inspired other women’s fashion that are seen as big and bold on the runway today. Her message was that it’s ok to create a story with your fashion no matter who you are and if you are performing in front of the crowd or not.

Source(s):

This trans drag ball superstar revolutionized queer fashion. She also hid a body in her closet. - https://tinyurl.com/yfy73yjy

Sh!t Dorian Corey Says - Paris is Burning -https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T3CXj9_Z_mk

A Famous Drag Queen, a Mummy in the Closet, and a Baffling Mystery @atlasobscura https://www.atlasobscura.com/articles/a-famous-drag-queen-a-mummy-in-the-closet-and-a-bafflingmystery

Good LGBTQ+ News for April -

'Don't Say Gay' settlement allows Florida students and teachers discuss sexual orientation, gender ID - https://tinyurl.com/8x9fb8cb
Three Years Ago, Detroit Techno Icon DJ Minx Came Out. Now, She's Living a Life She Never Thought She Could. -https://tinyurl.com/42x32kru
Massive Defeat For Anti-Trans And Anti-LGBTQ+ Riders In Spending Bill As Dems Hold Firm, by @ErinInTheMorn -https://tinyurl.com/bdheeywb And now for the BAD news:
Debunked: This misleading NYT anti-trans column relies on pseudoscience - https://www.advocate.com/transgender/nyt-trans-article-debunked
LGBTQ+ activists are fighting a Manhattan school district's plan to ban trans athletes - LGBTQ Nation -https://tinyurl.com/y96ke2k
Southern States Pushing Forward With Bills Ending Legal Recognition For Trans People, by @ErinInTheMorn -https://tinyurl.com/4jb5zwx9
Statement from The Trevor Project in response to Nex Benedict https://www.thetrevorproject.org/blog/statement-from-the-trevor-project-in-response-to-nexbenedict/

If you have any news or leads on anything related to LGBTQ+ news, issues, and organizations, please contact Sue Oser at soser@nfbpwc.org

BPW International: CSW68 Parallel Event

Kemi Oyebade — Fri, 01 Mar 2024 18:30:00 GMT

The National Federation of Business and Professional Women’s Clubs (NFBPWC) and Business and Professional Women of Canada are proud to be co-hosting a hybrid parallel event at the 2024 United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (CSW68).

Time: 2:30 PM - 4:00 PM (note time change/spring forward on March 12th)

[Use thistime difference calculatorto determine the time in your area. Note that the time will change for some countries when the U.S. moves to Daylight Time] REGISTRATION DETAILS:

To register for this online Zoom event only please register here using this event registration form on nfbpwc.org within this event. https://nfbpwc.wildapricot.org/event-5585243 This is a Hybrid event.

In-person has a limit of 250 attendees at the Salvation Army Auditorium in New York City.

Virtual has a limit of 400 attendees and it will be held on Zoom.

CONTACT

Please feel free to contact us at csw@nfbpwc.org if you have any questions!

LEGAL NOTICES:

Consent to Public Posting of Photos and Video: When you register for, and by entering a NFBPWC Zoom event online, you consent, individually and on behalf of your company, to be photographed or recorded by the meeting organizers and the NFBPWC organization. Participants consent to their images and video being reproduced for subsequent use in the media, webcasts, internal and external promotional purposes, and inclusion on websites and social media. Images are shared publicly with open access for use.
Information Consent: By completing the registration form, you are agreeing to allow NFBPWC to store the personal information submitted. NFBPWC will use this information to provide you the content requested, as well as occasional organizational updates to your inbox. You can unsubscribe at any time.

BPW International Leader’s Summit in New York

Kemi Oyebade — Fri, 01 Mar 2024 18:25:00 GMT

The annual BPW International Leader's Summit in New York, March 8-9, 2024, is a meeting for BPW members from all over the world who are interested in developing our association and who take their findings back to their countries and disseminate them there.

The Clare Fulcher Dinner, March 8, initiated as a meeting to acknowledge the UN Representatives, is open to all and brings the Leader's Summit to close in a festive setting.

Leaders' Summit - Friday and Saturday, March 8-9, 2024, Harmonie Club, 4 East 60th Street, New York,https://www.harmonieclub.org/: 90 places available, Ticket: 300 Euros for the catering (breakfast upon arrival - coffee break - buffet lunch - coffee break) on both days (tickets for both days only). This price is lower than the cost price; BPW International is paying for the Leaders' Summit venue in full and for part of the catering costs; all speakers, moderators and contributors are working voluntarily and free of charge.

Clare Fulcher Dinner - Friday, March 8, 2024, Reception with Aperitif Riche 17:00-19:00pm local time, Harmonie Club, 4 East 60th Street, New York,https://www.harmonieclub.org/: 90 places available. Ticket: 75 Euros. The program allows us to network and includes an Aperitif Riche and a Candle Lighting Ceremony.

Registration is mandatory; participation in the Leaders' Summit does not include registration for the Clare Fulcher Dinner.

Tickets have all been allocated, with BPW members holding an office having first priority. In addition, participants from as many countries as possible were considered. Registrations from Young BPW were also be accepted. A waitlist has been set-up for members still wanting to attend.

The following forms must be filled out in order to be considered:

Pre-Registration:https://form.jotform.com/bpwinternational/pre-registration-2024-NewYork

Questionnaire:https://form.jotform.com/bpwinternational/questionnaire-LS-2024

Full information can be found here:https://www.bpw-international.org/un/csw68-2024/Hotel in New York - Westgate New York Grand Central

As in previous years, hotel rooms have been reserved for BPW members at the Westgate Hotel in 2024. All details can be found in the adjacent flyer from the Westgate Hotel.

> Flyer as pdf

> Booking Link

> Website Hotel

Booking Code on the website: 65-245

International Relations Chair Report

Kemi Oyebade — Fri, 01 Mar 2024 18:20:00 GMT

By: Sandra Thompson
NFBPWC’s International Chair, international@nfbpwc.org

March 8 is International Women’s Day. The theme this year is Inspire Inclusion.

When women themselves are inspired to be included, there's a sense of belonging, relevance, and empowerment. With well over a century of history and change, the first International Women's Day (IWD) was held in March 1911. IWD isn't country, group or organization specific. It's a day of collective global activism and celebration that belongs to all those committed to forging women's equality.

World-renowned feminist, journalist and activist, Gloria Steinem,reportedly once explained:

"The story of women's struggle for equality belongs to no single feminist nor to any one organization but to the collective efforts of all who care about human rights."

The following is from the International Women’s Day Website -

When women aren't present, we must ask: "If not, why not?"

When women are discriminated against, we must call out poor practice.

When the treatment of women is not equitable, we must take action.

And we must do this each time, every time.

To truly include women means to openly embrace their diversity of race, age, ability, faith, body image, and how they identify. Worldwide, women must be included in all fields of endeavor.

On an organizational or group basis, there are many ways to ensure the needs, interests and aspirations of women and girls are valued and included. Organizations and groups can #InspireInclusion through action in areas such as:

forging women's economic empowerment
recruiting, retaining and developing female talent
supporting women and girls into leadership, decision-making, business and STEM
designing and building infrastructure meeting the needs of women and girls
helping women and girls make informed decisions about their health
involving women and girls in sustainable agriculture and food security
providing women and girls with access to quality education and training
elevating women and girl's participation and achievement in sport
promoting creative and artistic talent of women and girls
addressing further areas supporting the advancement of women and girls

Are you in? Will you inspire inclusion?

Strike the #InspireInclusion pose to show solidarity. When we truly value difference, inclusion comes from the heart.

Inspire others to help forge an inclusive world by sharing your #InspireInclusion image across social media using #IWD2024 #InspireInclusion.

March Highlights in US Women’s History

Kemi Oyebade — Fri, 01 Mar 2024 18:10:00 GMT

Celebrate Women’s History Month and International Women’s Day (March 8)

Find resources at:

March Highlights in US Women’s History

March 1, 1978 – Women’s History Week is first observed in Sonoma County, California
March 1, 1987 – Congress passes a resolution designating March as Women’s History Month
March 2, 1903 – the Martha Washington Hotel opens in New York City, becoming the first hotel exclusively for women
March 3, 1913 – Women’s Suffrage Parade in Washington, DC, where over 8000 women gathered to demand a constitutional amendment guaranteeing the right to vote
March 4, 1917 – Jeannette Rankin (R-MT) took her seat as the first female member of Congress
March 4, 1933 – Frances Perkins becomes United States Secretary of Labor, the first female member of the United States Cabinet
March 8 – International Women’s Day, whose origins trace back to protests in the U.S. and Europe to honor and fight for the political rights for working women
March 8, 2014 – National Catholic Sisters Weekwww.nationalcatholicsistersweek.orgestablished to raise awareness of the contributions of Catholic sisters
March 12, 1912 – Juliette Gordon Low assembled 18 girls together in Savannah, Georgia, for the first-ever Girl Scout meeting
March 12, 1993 – Janet Reno is sworn in as the first woman U.S. Attorney General
March 13, 1986 – Susan Butcher won the first of 3 straight and 4 total Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Races in Alaska
March 17, 1910 – Camp Fire Girls is established as the first interracial, non-sectarian American organization for girls
March 17, 1917 – Loretta Perfectus Walsh became the first woman to join the navy and the first woman to officially join the military in a role other than a nurse
March 20, 1852 – Harriet Beecher Stowe’s novel Uncle Tom’s Cabin is published and becomes the bestselling book of the 19th century
March 21, 1986 – Debi Thomas becomes first African American woman to win the World Figure Skating Championship
March 23, 1917 – Virginia Woolf establishes the Hogarth Press with her husband, Leonard Woolf
March 31, 1888 – The National Council of Women of the U.S. is organized by Susan B. Anthony, Clara Barton, Julia Ward Howe, and Sojourner Truth, among others, the oldest non-sectarian women’s organization in the U.S.
March 31, 1776 – Abigail Adams writes to her husband John who is helping to frame the Declaration of Independence and cautions, “Remember the ladies…”

(Source: https://nationalwomenshistoryalliance.org/march/)

Public Relations Committee Report

Kemi Oyebade — Fri, 01 Mar 2024 18:05:00 GMT

By: Suzette Cotto

NFBPWC Public Relations Chair

Engage with NFBPWC on Social Media

Organization Page:

Group Page:

Organization Page:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2l_ciIxLyvbu1dbBOsV9Tg

YouTube:

Instagram:

Bylaws & Resolutions Report

Kemi Oyebade — Fri, 01 Mar 2024 17:25:00 GMT

By: Trudy Waldroop
Bylaws & Resolutions Chair, NFBPWC 2022-2024
(Email: ILoveBPW@yahoo.com) Bylaws@NFBPWC.org

B Y L A W S Part 2

How do you change something already in the bylaws or want to add something?

The change/s are called amendments. There are five ways in which to change. They are known as to insert, strike, strike and insert, add, or substitute.

Insert - To insert a word or words between other words.
Strike - To take a specific word or words out.
Add To add word or words at the end of the sentence.

A combination of the above can be used.

Substitute - To substitute one entire paragraph for another. Used when normal amendments would be too cumbersome that it would be easier to make a new paragraph.

These are the proper words used in our Parliamentary Authority to amend a motion and bylaws, and it serves as a road map of what is proposed.

BPW’s Parliamentary Authority states that the format for informing the members of a “proposed bylaws amendment” is to:

present in writing the present wording of the bylaws sentence or paragraph as it is currently written in the bylaws including the Article number, paragraph and section number/letter;
then indicate the proposed change with the named methods above; and
then write the proposed bylaw sentence or paragraph as it would read if the proposed change or changes were voted on as approved by the members.

Include the rationale for the proposed change along with who is proposing the change.

In NFBPWC amendments can be proposed by:

Section 2 - Amendments may be proposed by any State Federation or Affiliate Chapter/Club, the Executive Committee, the Board of Directors, or an Affiliate member.

Section 3 - Proposed amendments shall be submitted to the Bylaws Committee at least sixty (60) days prior to the General Assembly and Biennial Conference and distributed to the membership thirty (30) days before the conference.

Deadline: May 20, 2024

Submit proposed changes to the Bylaws Chair (ILoveBPW@yahoo.com)

May 20, 2024: Submit proposed amendments to the Policy and Procedures Manual

ERA Team Report

Kemi Oyebade — Fri, 01 Mar 2024 17:20:00 GMT

y: Nancy Werner
NFBPWC Advocacy Team ERA Lead

EQUAL RIGHTS AMENDMENT
100^th ANNIVERSARY MARCH

SIGN4ERA – May I encourage you to take the time RIGHT NOW to sign onto this link. http://www.sign4era.orgI just received my correspondence from this group as they share the urgency of telling all our families, neighbors, coworkers to sign on immediately. With Alabama’s alarming court ruling that frozen embryos are considered people, the urgency to protect not only in vitro fertilization but all reproductive rights has never been more important. But what we heard from Alabama will not be the only state. Other states are already introduced anti-IVF laws.

One more attack on women and their reproductive freedoms. We must place the Equal Rights Amendment in our United States Constitution. The ERA will offer us permanent protection for sexual and reproductive health and rights that include abortion, all forms of birth control, fertility treatments and all other reproductive healthcare including IVF.

Earlier in the week of February 18^th, former member of Congress Carolyn Maloney told ERA supporters in Annapolis, Maryland, “We cannot have equal rights for people in one state and not in all states. The right and access to reproductive health care MUST be available to all people in all states.”

YOU need to take action now. Click on this link http://www.sign4era.org

Also, if you haven’t signed the http://www.sign4era.org receive notifications, please do so NOW. We arelooking for a million signers. Share with everyone you know to take action.

Please keep in touch with your Senators using the NFBPWC “One Click.” We have been promised a revisit and we need to be ready.

LGBTQ+ Team Report

Kemi Oyebade — Fri, 01 Mar 2024 17:15:00 GMT

By: Susan Oser
NFBPWC Advocacy Team LGBTQIA+ Lead

LGBTQ+ Icon of the Month: Sylvia Rivera

Why highlight?

Sylvia Rivera was one of the first transgender LGBT, Latina activists for transgender justice and civil rights. She was homeless and worked with Marsha P. Johnson (featured last month). She was one of the many people who became part of the infamous Stonewall Riots. Because of her work, she blazed a trail for other transactivists to follow in her footsteps.

Source(s):

Sylvia Rivera Trans Movement

Founder video -https://youtu.be/ybnH0HB0lqc?si=uhu_2Oy3kf4yinfi

How to Honor Sylvia Rivera’s Legacy - https://www.them.us/story/how-to-honor-sylvia-riveraslegacy

Slyvia Rivera Changed Queer and Trans Activism Forever -https://www.them.us/story/sylvia-rivera Good LGBTQ+ News for March:

The first results from the 2022 U.S. Trans Survey were released last week. Over 92,000 people across the U.S. participated in the survey, making it the largest survey ever of transgender people in this country. View the highlights and download the full Early Insights report at https://USTransSurvey.org.
LGBT Detroit Turns 30: What You Need to Know About North America's Largest Black-Led LGBTQ+ Organization - Leaders reflect on the legacy of the Michigan-based org http://tinyurl.com/ab7c2eny And now for the BAD news:
Republicans Are Trying to Pass Laws That Define What It Means to Be ‘Male’ Or ‘Female’ Advocates say the conservative push to define “sex” is not only politically motivated but goes against basic biology. http://tinyurl.com/ykctmjdr
Against the Erasure of Black Queer History - When there are efforts to censor Black queer history in classrooms, to prevent trans folks from changing their gender markers or using the bathrooms they prefer, we must resist. Resistance of erasure is resistance to oppression. http://tinyurl.com/2temt3h3
Anti-Trans Legislative Risk Assessment Map - February Update - 6 weeks into 2024, there are already 400+ bills targeting transgender people. This map assesses the risk of the worst laws passing. https://www.erininthemorning.com/p/anti-trans-legislative-risk-assessment96f?r=k9h1j&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web##

If you have any news or leads on anything related to LGBTQ+ news, issues, and organizations, please contact Sue Oser at soser@nfbpwc.org

Member Spotlight

Kemi Oyebade — Fri, 01 Mar 2024 17:05:00 GMT

Donna De La Rosa is the Director of School Partnerships with the Boys & Girls Club of West San Gabriel Valley & Eastside. In this role, Donna manages a large team to facilitate a contract with the Hacienda La Puente Unified School District to provide after school program services to 8 schools in the district ranging from TK-8^th grade students, including homework assistance, physical and enrichment activities. Donna also works directly with the principals of the schools and the district directly to collaborate in providing the most essential services to their students.

Donna brings with her over 26 years of work experience in the healthcare field working for AHMC Healthcare Inc. Donna worked at the hospital level for over 25 years as the Director of Business Development and one year as the Executive Assistant to the Senior Executive Vice President at the corporate level of the company. Donna has also been affiliated with the AHMC Health Foundation for

over ten years, assisting the organization and execution of their bi-annual galas and most recently the Administrator for the Foundation, organizing and scheduling board meetings, taking meeting minutes and maintaining website content.

On a voluntary basis, Donna has been involved with the Boys & Girls Club of West San Gabriel Valley & Eastside, providing support at several fundraiser activities including their golf tournaments and galas along with being a judge, mentor and chair for several Youth of the Year events over the last 20 years. Her passion for providing services to children in need led her to leave the healthcare profession and make the career move to the Boys & Girls Club.

What year did you join BPW? 2023
WHY did you join BPW? I was nominated and received the East Los Angeles Montebello Woman of Achievement award. I was invited to join the same evening that I received the award.
HOW has BPW helped your career and personal lifestyle? In the short time that I have been a member, I have received empowerment from this group, both personally and professionally. I know I have a powerful, strong and educated group of women behind me to support me through my ongoing career.
What wisdom can you pass on to other members? The wisdom that I can pass on to other members is to be your authentic self. Never be afraid to stand up for what you believe in. Have faith in your decisions and never hesitate to reach out for help.
How does BPW benefit by having you as a member? I feel that BPW can benefit from having me as a member as I can bring the perspective of working with both for-profit and not-for-profit organizations in my career. I have also worked in various industries, including retail, healthcare and currently youth development.
List any social media handles you'd like us to tag you with.

Instagram: @goblue4life

Facebook: Donna De La Rosa

BPW International: CSW68 Parallel Event

Kemi Oyebade — Thu, 08 Feb 2024 18:55:00 GMT

Register soon for:

CSW68 Parallel Event: Global Collaboration to Tackle Period Poverty

Date: March 13, 2022

Time: 2:30 PM - 4:00 PM (note time change/spring forward on March 12th)

[Use this time difference calculator to determine the time in your area. Note that the time will change for some countries when the U.S. moves to Daylight Time]

REGISTRATION DETAILS:

To register for this online Zoom event only please register here using this event registration form on nfbpwc.org within this event. https://nfbpwc.wildapricot.org/event-5585243

This is a Hybrid event.

In-person has a limit of 200 attendees at the Salvation Army Auditorium in New York City.

Virtual has a limit of 400 attendees and it will be held on Zoom.

CONTACT
Please feel free to contact us at csw@nfbpwc.org if you have any questions!

LEGAL NOTICES:

Consent to Public Posting of Photos and Video: When you register for, and by entering a NFBPWC Zoom event online, you consent, individually and on behalf of your company, to be photographed or recorded by the meeting organizers and the NFBPWC organization. Participants consent to their images and video being reproduced for subsequent use in the media, webcasts, internal and external promotional purposes, and inclusion on websites and social media. Images are shared publicly with open access for use.

Information Consent: By completing the registration form, you are agreeing to allow NFBPWC to store the personal information submitted. NFBPWC will use this information to provide you the content requested, as well as occasional organizational updates to your inbox. You can unsubscribe at any time.

BPW International Leader’s Summit in New York

Kemi Oyebade — Thu, 08 Feb 2024 18:50:00 GMT

The Clare Fulcher Dinner, March 8, initiated as a meeting to acknowledge the UN Representatives, is open to all and brings the Leader's Summit to close in a festive setting.

Leaders' Summit - Friday and Saturday, March 8-9, 2024, Harmonie Club, 4 East 60th Street, New York, https://www.harmonieclub.org/: 90 places available, Ticket: 300 Euros for the catering (breakfast upon arrival - coffee break - buffet lunch - coffee break) on both days (tickets for both days only). This price is lower than the cost price; BPW International is paying for the Leaders' Summit venue in full and for part of the catering costs; all speakers, moderators and contributors are working voluntarily and free of charge.

Clare Fulcher Dinner - Friday, March 8, 2024, Reception with Aperitif Riche 17:00-19:00pm local time, Harmonie Club, 4 East 60th Street, New York, https://www.harmonieclub.org/: 90 places available. Ticket: 75 Euros. The program allows us to network and includes an Aperitif Riche and a Candle Lighting Ceremony.

Registration is mandatory; participation in the Leaders' Summit does not include registration for the Clare Fulcher Dinner.

Tickets will be allocated, with BPW members holding an office having first priority. In addition, participants from as many countries as possible will be considered. Registrations from Young BPW will also be accepted.

The following forms must be filled out in order to be considered:

Pre-Registration: https://form.jotform.com/bpwinternational/pre-registration-2024-NewYork

Questionnaire: https://form.jotform.com/bpwinternational/questionnaire-LS-2024

Full information can be found here: https://www.bpw-international.org/un/csw68-2024/

Hotel in New York - Westgate New York Grand Central

As in previous years, hotel rooms have been reserved for BPW members at the Westgate Hotel in 2024. All details can be found in the adjacent flyer from the Westgate Hotel.

> Flyer as pdf

> Booking Link

> Website Hotel

Booking Code on the website: 65-245

International Relations Chair Report

Kemi Oyebade — Thu, 08 Feb 2024 18:40:00 GMT

By: Sandra Thompson
NFBPWC’s International Chair, international@nfbpwc.org

Great news NFBPWC and the Canadian Federation will be hosting a Parallel event at CSW68 in New York. Our time will be March 13, 2024, at 2:30 p.m. Eastern Time. You can join either in person or on Zoom. For your information I am repeating how to register from my January article.

This is a once-a-year event and I encourage you to take time and register and attend several events. There are 100s of events to choose from and of course register for our event. You can register for as many as you want for free.

Registration is now open. It takes about 2 minutes to register. It is a very simple form. When you register, you will receive a confirmation email with pertinent information and a link to login to the virtual portal to start exploring?

To register just go to https://ngocsw68forum.vfairs.com/.

NGO CSW68 Forum registration will not get access to the UN CSW and the UN building. The UN CSW and NGO CSW68 Forum are two totally separate events. Registration for the NGO CSW68 Forum will not get you a UN grounds pass or access to the UN building.

For more information about official registration for the UN CSW, visit UN Women’s website

I hope to see you all on line or in person for this exciting event that brings women from around the world together.

NEWS –Due to unrest and increasing costs the International Executive Committee has elected to move the International Congress to St. Kitts. That means it will be in our Regional. The Congress will be held November 17 – 20. If you have never been to an International Congress, this is a great time to plan to attend. St. Kitts is a beautiful island and they are very hospitable. We will be staying at the same hotel that we were at for the Regional meeting last January. It will be a long time before the International Congress comes back to our Region. So save the date. Here are a couple of pictures of St. Kitts.

THANK YOU!!

A big thank you to all of you who contributed to raising funds to send to our BPW Sisters in the Ukraine. Last October we asked you to make donations so that we could help send money to aid our BPW sisters in the Ukraine.

BPW UK President Jo Kinsey has worked with Amelie LeClerc from BPW France and together they have secured funding totaling €25,000 or $27,815 to purchase a van to send to the Ukraine. But they did not want to send it empty, so additional funding was needed to fill it up with medical supplies, solar panels, and everyday needs.

Thanks to your generous donations we raised $1,000. This money was sent to BPW International and is being spent to fill up the van with these needed supplies.

UK President Jo Kinsey is most grateful for our support. You have made a difference in these ladies’ lives. Thank you for your generous support.

United Nations Report

Kemi Oyebade — Thu, 08 Feb 2024 18:35:00 GMT

By: Susan O’Malley
IFBPWC UN Representative
NGO CSW/NY, Chair ex officio
Professor Emerita, City University of New York
UNChair@nfbpwc.org susanomalley4@gmail.com

Do register for the NGO CSW68 Forum!

It is free and all events are online. (Some events are both in person and online.) The Forum runs from March 10 (Consultation Day), the day after the IFBPW Summit (March 8-9), to March 20. It runs 24 hours each day to accommodate all time zones. [Our NGO’s official name at the UN is the International Federation of Business and Professional Women, not BPW-International.] Go to the NGO CSW/NY’s webpage and register for the CSW68 Forum so that you will have access online to all events, including parallel events, conversation circles, booths, morning briefings, and the webpage for each event. This year there will be an Artisan Fair held at the Armenian Center.

You can browse the website now - it is much easier than last year. The calendar of events should be posted soon. If you have a question, go to NGO CSW/NY CSW68 to find the answer. There are many tutorials to answer your questions and to explain how to get involved with advocating for the 6 recommendations that NGO CSW is suggesting for the negotiated Outcome Document.

The event I am organizing with Marilou McPhedran, Senator Canada, is “Addressing Poverty: Basic Livable Income Bills” sponsored by Feminist Parliamentarians and co-sponsored by the International Federation of Business and Professional Women. It is on Tuesday, 12 March, at 12:30.

Hope to see you there on Zoom.

Public Relations Committee Report

Kemi Oyebade — Thu, 08 Feb 2024 18:30:00 GMT

By: Suzette Cotto

NFBPWC Public Relations Chair

Engage with NFBPWC on Social Media

Organization Page:

Group Page:

Organization Page:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2l_ciIxLyvbu1dbBOsV9Tg

YouTube:

Instagram:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0dduj7IMKL0

FEBRUARY Highlights in US Women’s History

February is Black History Month

Black History Month recognizes and honors important people and events in the history of African-American history. In 1926 noted historian, Carter G. Woodson, originated the idea of “Negro History Week”. Woodson chose the second week of February because it marked the birthdays of two Americans who greatly influenced the lives and social condition of African Americans – former President Abraham Lincoln and abolitionist Frederick Douglass.
The tradition of what became Black History Month greatly influenced the expansion of academic scholarship and the corresponding recognition of the rich history of African Americans

Take the Black Women’s History Challenge

Celebrate Black History Month

February Highlights in US Women’s History

February 1, 1978 – First postage stamp to honor a black woman, Harriet Tubman, is issued in Washington, DC
February 4, 1987 – First “National Women in Sports Day” is celebrated by Presidential Proclamation
February 11, 1989 – Rev. Barbara Harris became the first woman bishop in the American Episcopal Church and in the Anglican Communion worldwide.
February 12, 1869 – The Utah Territorial Legislature passes a bill allowing women to vote
February 15, 1921 – The Suffrage Monument, depicting Susan B. Anthony, Elizabeth Cady Stanton, and Lucretia Mott, sculpted by Adelaide Johnson, is dedicated at the U.S. Capitol
February 15, 1953 – Tenley Albright became the first American woman to win the World Figure Skating championship
February 17, 1870 – Esther Hobart Morris in Wyoming became the first American woman Justice of the Peace
February 24, 1912 – Henrietta Szold founds Hadassah, the largest Jewish organization in American history, focusing on healthcare and education in the Israel and the U.S.
February 24, 1967 – Jocelyn Bell Burnell makes the first discovery of a pulsar, a rapidly rotating neutron star
February 27, 1922 – U.S. Supreme Court upholds the 19th Amendment to the Constitution, which guarantees women the right to vote

(Source: https://nationalwomenshistoryalliance.org/february/)

Nominations Report

Kemi Oyebade — Thu, 08 Feb 2024 18:25:00 GMT

By: Manjul Batra
NFBPWC Nominations Chair

Webinar: Leadership Gap / Way to Go

This webinar is led by Nominations Chair, Manjul Batra.

Members & Non-members invited to attend.

February 17, 2024 from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM Eastern Time (10AM Pacific, 11AM Mountain, 12PM Central)

This program is to support growth, understanding & comfort zone for members of organizations, to take positions of leadership, setting a clear vision, and making informed decisions for different levels of leadership.

The information is provided today by our National & International leaders of Business & Professional Women to provide a clear vision of the BPW organization, its foundation, and tools provided for leadership growth & participation.

Speakers are in order of presentation and are to speak on the subjects mentioned below: Each speaker has 30 minutes.

Bessie Hironimus, Secretary BPW International: International BPW Constitution, procedures and its applications.
Elizabeth Benham, President, BPW International: International operations, UN Advisory agencies, opportunities in International Trade & more.
Daneene Monroe Rusnak: Vice President, Advocacy NFBPWC (2020-2024): Public Policy (Advocacy) platform, commission on status of women, application & use.

Break 5 minutes.

Kathy Kelly: Vice President Membership, NFBPWC, (2021-2024): Training programs, availability of benefits, website information & use.
Megan Shellman-Rickard: National President, NFBPWC, (2020-2024): The Nitty Gritty of leadership at all levels

The Zoom Host will be Michelle Husby from Berkeley BPW.

Zoom details will be sent after registration. You can register now at: https://nfbpwc.wildapricot.org/event-5523806

(The above speakers will be available later for questions or extra information via phone calls, day & time period to be specified. Details provided on the day of the program.)

Digital Training Report

Kemi Oyebade — Thu, 08 Feb 2024 18:20:00 GMT

By: Teressa Gehrke
NFBPWC Digital Training Chair, digitaltraining@nfbpwc.org

Sextortion

Online sextortion is a form of blackmail where someone is threatening to share a nude, sexual image, or video of you to the public, like friends or family, unless you do what they demand. Typically, it is a financial demand or extortion to avoid sharing the images or videos publicly.

Why is Online Sextortion important to know about?

Sextortion is a crime because of the illegal act of threatening and blackmailing a person by threatening to release sexually explicit photos of that person. If the situation is ignored, your personal content may be published online or the blackmailer harasses and threatens you until their demands are met. These criminals are known to even reach out to loved ones to harass them as well.

Where are sextortion schemes common?

Sextortion schemes occur online where young people feel most comfortable, such as social media platforms, most commonly on Instagram, Snapchat, and Wizz. It also occurs on gaming and dating sites, through sexting, video chat applications and forums, like Discord.

Who is targeted by online sextortion?

Predators and blackmailers create fake profiles and accounts to target minors. Unfortunately, more teens and minors are becoming victims to online sextortion. Adults, posing as peers online, target minors on messaging platforms befriending their target and gaining their trust. Then, the trust is manipulated and the victim is taken advantage of by them. High pressure and fear cause social, mental, psychological, and physical distress.

How can online sextortion be prevented?

The best way to avoid online sextortion is to always be cautious and aware of who you are contacting, especially if it is with strangers. Sexually explicit content can be gathered by impersonation or by using malware to control a victim’s webcam, so it is important to also be aware of any links and attachments from sources you do not know and NEVER share sexually explicit images with others. If you are already threatened, it is important to:

Resist the urge to engage with the blackmailer.
Never pay the ransom. There’s no guarantee that if you pay they won’t still release the sexually explicit content.
Save all communications, including texts, emails or voice communications. This is evidence. Take screenshots.
Do not be afraid to get an adult, the police, or FBI involved. Ask for HELP!
Remember, it’s not your fault. Somebody maliciously and intentionally attacked you online. It’s their fault!

Helpful Links:

For additional assistance or questions, please email: digitaltraining@nfbpwc.org.

Women on the Move Committee Report

Kemi Oyebade — Thu, 08 Feb 2024 18:15:00 GMT

Nermin K Ahmad, NFBPWC Women on the Move Committee Chair

Members: Sher Singh, Emily VanVleck, Veronica Sexton, Cathleen Jeanty

By:Nermin K. Ahmad

Afghan Women Project:

If you are interested in welcoming these new Americans, and answering their questions of offering the hand of friendship please contact us at Afghanwomen@nfbpwc.org, visit our home page at https://www.nfbpwc.org/Afghan-Women-Project.

Entrepreneur and Small Business Committee Report

Kemi Oyebade — Thu, 08 Feb 2024 18:10:00 GMT

By: Marsha Riibner-Cady
Chair, and Barbara Bozeman – Vice Chair

Join us in February

for a Neuropraphic Art Session!

Time Zones: 7pm ET | 6pm CT | 5pm MT | 4pm PT
Meetings are held monthly on the second Wednesday of the month. *Except for February 2023

Registration will be open on the website as of January 28th.

How: Online via Zoom. Details will be provided upon registration.

Be sure to check out the NFBPWC Entrepreneur & Small Business (ESB) Committee page on the website, and the Blog Page for NFBPWC, as well as the NFBPWC Facebook page(s), and the NFBPWC Marketplace page.

ESB Page - https://nfbpwc.org/entrepreneur-business-program

Blog Post - https://nfbpwc.org/NFBPWC-Blog

NFBPWC FB - https://www.facebook.com/NatlFedBPWC

NFBPWC Marketplace - https://www.facebook.com/groups/nfbpwcmarketplace/

Rapid Response Committee Report

Kemi Oyebade — Thu, 08 Feb 2024 18:05:00 GMT

By: Susan E. Oser
NFBPWC Rapid Response Committee Chair

Rapid Response in 2024

With the new year there will be new issues and old to respond to.

This current presidential year will have a lot of issues to response to from immigration to the economy, and of course women’s issues that affect all of us here in the NFBPWC organization. While it can be overwhelming, it’s important to note that we all cannot just speak on one issue alone. We need to be cognizant of all issues but put a voice to those issues that affect us or those we care about personally or the ones that most speak to us.

So what issues are you going to speak about this year? What issues are most important to you in 2024? What issues do you think should be important for NFBPWC in 2024?

Please connect with Sue Oser at rapidresponse@nfbpwc.org if you have any ideas on topics that should be focused on and discussed as we get into the big election cycle.

Health Committee Report

Kemi Oyebade — Thu, 08 Feb 2024 18:00:00 GMT

Keri Hess Laursen, NFBPWC Health Committee Chair, Downtown Sacramento Member Health@NFBPWC.org

The Health Committee is seeking a co-chair, no experience required!

The Health Committee currently meets the 2nd Monday of each month at 5pm PST.

Please email Keri at: health@nfbpwc.org to inquire about serving as co-chair or to get on the Health Committee listserv.

Bring Back the Pollinators

Kemi Oyebade — Thu, 08 Feb 2024 17:55:00 GMT

By: Marikay Shellman,
BPW Colorado Virtual Chair, NFBPWC Environment and Sustainable Development Committee (2022-2024)

In protecting our planet for future generations, it is imperative that we push our government officials to do everything in their power to limit the effects of climate change. As a member of People & Pollinators Action Network (PPAN) and the Xerces Society for Invertebrates, our community has advocated for a study to be conducted on pollinating insects and bats. Senate Bill 22-199, Native Pollinating Insects Protection Study, passed and Research and Development began in February-July 2023, followed by Analysis and Synthesis July- October 2023. Recommendations and Final Report was just released January 2024 by Governor Polis in partnership with Colorado Department of Natural Resources, University of Colorado Museum of Natural History, Colorado State University Extension, and Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation. The five areas of immediate priorities and actions are:

Protect imperiled native pollinating insects.
Protect, restore, and connect pollinator habitats.
Mitigate environmental changes that negatively impact pollinators and their habitats.
Reduce the risks from pesticides to pollinating insects.
Monitor and support native and manage pollinator health.

Pollinating insects and bats around the world are declining rapidly which is quite literally a matter of life and death for all of us.

In 2023, 20 states have introduced legislation to protect pollinator habitats. Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, and Colorado have enacted laws to restore and conserve pollinator habitats. 24 states have introduced legislation to limit the use of harmful pesticides, six of which have enacted laws limiting the use of toxic pesticides, Connecticut, Nevada, Hawaii, Illinois, Colorado, and New York. (www.ncelenviro.org)

To keep up to date on pollinator protections in your state, check out NCEL’s Bill tracking map available on their website. Write to your congress members and thank them and/or encourage them to protect our pollinators.

Environment & Sustainable Development Committee

Kemi Oyebade — Thu, 08 Feb 2024 17:50:00 GMT

By: Marikay Shellman

BPW Colorado Virtual Chair, NFBPWC Environment and Sustainable Development Committee (2022-2024)

Simple Acts: EAT LESS PLASTIC

The average person ingests about a credit card’s amount microplastic per week. It has become so alarming that Consumer Reports’ cover page January 2024, announces “HOW TO EAT LESS PLASTIC.” The Washington Post, World Wildlife Fund, National Geographic, PBS, NPR, Bon Appetit, and EcoWatch are among many publications addressing this dangerous health issue.

Microplastics, miniscule pieces less than 5 millimeters, are everywhere, not only in our oceans and soils and in the guts of insects and fish, but also in human organs, even in the air we breathe. Synthetic plastic production has grown by more than 400 million tons annually.

Bisphenols, BPAs, and phthalates, which make plastics flexible and durable, have been found to interrupt the regulation and production of hormones leading to the increased risk of diabetes, cancers, cardiovascular disease, birth defects, and neurodevelopmental disorders to name a few. DEHPs, the most studied phthalates, are present in plastic products such as toys, shower curtains, medical devices, packaging film, and garden hoses, are classified by the EPA as a probable human carcinogen.

Simple ways to avoid microplastics in your day-to-day life

1)Don’t heat food in plastic. Yes, it is so easy to heat leftovers or takeout in those plastic containers. Don’t. The BPAs and phthalates added to Tupperware, takeout boxes, pre-made frozen meals leach easily into your food when heated. Don’t wash plastic containers in the dishwasher as the heated water degrades the plastic.

2)Drink filtered tap water. Although microplastics are in 94% of American tap water, water filters eliminate 100% of known microplastics. Plastic bottled water, soda, and sports drinks are known to be one of the largest sources of microplastic ingestion. Glass or stainless-steel bottles are best as many BPA-free plastic and aluminum water bottles have undisclosed liner materials made from resin, polymer, or epoxy.

3)Avoid plastic food containers. Plastic products with recycling codes 3, 6, and 7 contain phthalate, styrene, and bisphenols which are more damaging than other plastic containers unless they are labeled “greenware” or “biobased”, a safer option. Forego any plastic wrapped items, even peanut butter, and choose glass containers instead. Use wax paper or aluminum or food-grade silicone for wrap. High-fat items such as yogurt, milk, cream, and butter readily leach chemicals from plastics. Although more expensive, purchase these products in glass containers.

4)Eliminate takeaway cups. The lining in most takeout containers, your morning coffee or tea, are made with HDPE grade plastic which leak estrogenic chemicals and some even contain heavy metals. Bring your own stainless steel or glass reusable cup to your favorite coffee shop, cutting down on waste.

5)Use loose leaf tea instead of tea bags. A majority of tea bags consist of approximately 25% plastic, releasing 11.6 billion microplastics and 3.1 billion nanoplastics into your drink. Paper tea bags are glued together with polypropylene, another plastic.

6)Beware of the types of fish you eat, especially shellfish. Limit your intake of seafood to cut back on the amount of microplastics you ingest. 386 aquatic species, more than half of which are commercially sold, have been found to contain large amounts of microplastics. These microplastics and nanoplastics move from the fish stomach into its muscle tissue, which is the part that we eat. Unfortunately, ocean plastic continues to grow.

Collectively, we need to reduce our dependence on plastic. Only by increasing our awareness of the plastic crisis and spreading the word can we reduce the presence of microplastics in our food.

Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Report

Kemi Oyebade — Thu, 08 Feb 2024 17:40:00 GMT

By: Sher Singh
NFBPWC’s JDEI Chair,dei@nfbpwc.org

Webinar: “Grief: No Time Limit-Stages are Phases of Acceptance and Hope"

February 20, 2024-5 pm PT/8 pm ET

Grief is a challenging, yet little talked about subject. Join us as Ellen Shane and Kara LC Jones share their approach to grief experience.

Born in Montreal, Canada, Ellen Shane (pictured right)lived there until 1996, when she moved with her family to Southern California.

She cofounded the 501(c)3 nonprofit charity, The Emily Shane Foundation, to honor the memory of her youngest child, Emily Rose Shane, following her tragic murder at the age of 13 in April 2010. Emily was in 8th grade in middle school and struggled academically. She fell into a “grey” area; not needing or qualifying for special education yet having trouble achieving her best academic ability without outside support.

Due to a lack of resources within the educational system to address students like Emily, the foundation established a unique educational initiative, the SEA (Successful Educational Achievement) Program. The SEA Program empowers underserved students in the mainstream middle school classroom with individualized and intensive essential academic tutoring and mentorship. The program is comprehensive and was developed with a middle school teacher with over 40 years of classroom experience. The SEA Program solely serves those unable to afford this support. Since its inception in the spring of 2012, the SEA Program has made a difference in the lives of over 1000 middle schoolers across Los Angeles and Ventura counties.

Kara LC Jones (pictured left)is the Creative Grief Educator and heARTist behind Grief + Creativity and will guide us through a Creative Grief experience tool.

Kara is a Carnegie Mellon graduate who interned for 3 years at Mister Rogers Neighborhood and has spent the last couple of decades exploring creative approaches to grief experience.

She has authored several books including: Mrs. Duck and the Woman, Flash Of Life, and 1000 Permissions Granted. Kara has also contributed to publications such as They Were Still Born, Journal of Family Social Work, Living With Grief, Elegy, and more. For more about her heARTwork, see www.GriefAndCreativity.com.

Bylaws & Resolutions Report

Kemi Oyebade — Thu, 08 Feb 2024 17:25:00 GMT

By: Trudy Waldroop
Bylaws & Resolutions Chair, NFBPWC 2022-2024 (Email: ILoveBPW@yahoo.com) Bylaws@NFBPWC.org

B Y L A W S

Part 1

What are they?

Bylaws is a document that relates to the basic rules for an organization to its structure and manner of operation. Bylaws are an organization’s highest authority and take precedence over the parliamentary authority whenever there is a conflict and which are always stated in the organization’s bylaws. For the National Federation of Business and Professional Women’s Clubs the parliamentary authority is Robert‘s Rules of Order Newly Revised (latest edition). An organization may not have in their bylaws anything which conflicts with a law of a higher organization. Bylaws can never be suspended!

Why do we need them?

It tells the members of the organization their rights and responsibilities and how to conduct themselves at meetings. Every person who joins an organization should be given right away a copy of that organization’s bylaws – along with any other rules that organization has adopted.

What’s in them?

At least the Name of the organization, their Object, Members, Officers, Meetings, Executive Committee, Board, Committees, Parliamentary Authority and Amendments. An easy way to remember these is the mnemonics it’s NO MOM E CPA. These are the minimum that shall be listed in bylaws, an organization may wish to add others/topics. If your organization has a Board of Directors add an article to it after the article on Executive Board/Committee.

Briefly what each of the above items should contain:

Name the full, exact name of the organization.

Object of the organization expressed in a single sentence.

Members who can join, classes of membership, dues, when due.

Officers name of officers, term, how elected or appointed.

Meetings when meet, the annual meeting special meetings, and the quorum of each.

Executive Committee bylaws should state what the Executive Committee consists of, its powers, duties, quorum, and other duties. If a Board of Directors is desired a separate Article is listed.

Board of Directors would also indicate who it consists of, its powers, duties, and quorum.

Committees Standing Committees first, their name, composition, election and duties. Special committees should be in a separate Article.

Parliamentary Authoritywhat it is (name and author) and should be stated in one sentence.

Amendment this Article would contain the procedures for amendment on how to change the current bylaws.

ERA Team Report

Kemi Oyebade — Thu, 08 Feb 2024 17:20:00 GMT

By: Nancy Werner

NFBPWC Advocacy Team ERA Lead

EQUAL RIGHTS AMENDMENT

100^th ANNIVERSARY MARCH

Last month we saw Wednesday, December 13^th come and go with all the hype concerning the march in Washington D.C. The ERA- Coalition worked hard for us to remember that it was December 13, 1923 when the ERA was first introduced in Congress. They invited every group who has voiced or has promoted the ERA passage. We learned all about the day through our connections with the MS. Memo. But now, a month later, what is happening?

Soon after the March, a letter was sent to the White House, Senators and others in power calling for the publication of the Equal Rights Amendment. It was written by the ERA Publication Task Force. It was signed by 84 diverse organizations. A response was received…

The White House narrative is that President Biden is pro women, pro Roe and the other party is trashing women’s rights. Given that we briefed the White House Council on the danger of allowing the Dobbs decision to be handed down without publication of the ERA, it is apparent that the Biden Administration is giving the Supreme Court a clear lane to rollback women’s rights.

It is dangerous not to have the ERA published in this environment.

Jean Sweeney, Co-Head of the National Publication Task Force continued to share some more facts for us to ponder. We lost the Roe framework and the Comstock Laws of the 1870 and the Chamberlain-Kahn Act of 1918 remain as trap laws. Now add the Artificial Intelligence has been denied the proper Constitution with the 28^th Amendment in 4 years.

What can we be doing? We need to be attending political events and asking our candidates about the ERA publication. I enjoyed Jean Sweeney calling us “warriors,” because that is exactly what we are. We MUST stand up and fight. No one is going to do it but us.

Last month I asked you to do the following and it is still waiting for you to do. Call Colleen Shogan at 202-357-5900 –Here is your message – My name is ______________. I am calling from _________(name your state). I am asking that you do your duty and publish the Equal Rights Amendment as the 28^th Amendment. The E.R. A. has fulfilled the requirements set forth in Article Five of the Constitution and we can wait no longer for full constitutional protection.

She is the National Archivist.

Also, if you haven’t signed the http://www.sign4era.org to receive notifications, please do so. We are looking for a million signers. Please keep in touch with your Senators using the NFBPWC “One Click.” We have been promised a revisit and we need to be ready. Keep clicking.

LGBTQ+ Team Report

Kemi Oyebade — Thu, 08 Feb 2024 17:15:00 GMT

By: Susan Oser
NFBPWC Advocacy Team LGBTQIA+ Lead

LGBTQ+ Icon of the Month: Marsha P. Johnson

Why highlight?

If you know about the Stonewall Uprisings, eight days of protest that gave birth to the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement, chances are you know about Marsha “Pay It No Mind” Johnson. As an organizer and advocate, Johnson was a central figure in the 1969 rebellion. Following that fateful week in June, Johnson continued to advocate for the rights of LGBTQ+ people, particularly poor trans femmes of color. Alongside Sylvia Rivera, she co-founded Street Transvestite Action Revolutionaries (STAR), an organization dedicated to sheltering houseless LGBTQ+ youth. Johnson’s impact can still be felt today, as her legacy and name are evoked in the names of LGBTQ+ organizations, by projects that collect resources for trans people, and through the work of activists that seek to end violence against Black trans femmes.

Source(s):

https://outhistory.org/exhibits/show/tgi-bios/marsha-p-johnson

https://www.imdb.com/title/tt5233558/

https://marshap.org/

https://www.them.us/story/happy-birthday-marsha-interview

https://www.them.us/story/new-statue-marsha-p-johnson-fighting-whitewashing-lgbtq-history

Good LGBTQ+ News for February:

✓ Affirming Actions and Gender Euphoria Among Transgender and Nonbinary Young People http://tinyurl.com/3y2z7hws Gender euphoria is defined as satisfaction or joy caused when one's gendered experience aligns with their gender identity, rather than with the gender they were assigned at birth.
✓ Pope Francis says priests can give blessings for same-sex couples. http://tinyurl.com/5ywwhyme. The Pope made the announcement on December 18th, representing a historic change for the Catholic Church. Many LGBTQ+ Catholics celebrated the change, hoping this would create a more welcoming space for them within the Church.
✓ Washington Blade publishes Year in Review for 2023. http://tinyurl.com/58nt5bnjThis collection of the top 10 national news stories from 2023 include the Pride Celebration at the White House, and the scandals surrounding former Congressman George Santos.

And now for the BAD news:

✓ A New Report Exposes the Network of Extremist Groups Behind the Anti-Trans PR Machine http://tinyurl.com/mtthja8u Researchers stressed that anti-LGBTQ+ disinformation is part of a larger reactionary conservative movement.
✓ Only 5 Days into The Year, 125 Anti-Trans Bills Have Been Filed. http://tinyurl.com/46v2xct9 Over 125 bills targeting the transgender community have been released in 2024, more than double the pace of 2023.

If you have any news or leads on anything related to LGBTQ+ news, issues, and organizations, please contact Sue Oser at soser@nfbpwc.org

Celebrations of Life

Kemi Oyebade — Thu, 08 Feb 2024 17:05:00 GMT

Marie Clifton, October 11, 1940, to December 20, 2023

I have known Marie Clifton for more than 25 years. I met her at my first Sierra Mar BPW District after I moved to Monterey Park. She joined BPW in May 1982. She belonged to at least three different BPW Clubs – San Marino, which folded, and then she joined San Gabriel, which folded, and then it was East Valley. She served in various offices in the San Marino and San Gabriel Clubs. Those Clubs also recognized her contributions with certificates and plaques. She served as a Page at State Conventions (as they were called at that time) and continued to serve as Page at Sierra Mar District Conferences until Sierra Mar’s June Training meeting in June 2023. Early on she took the Individual Development course and became the leader of the Sierra Mar Individual Development team. The first course she taught was in 1993 for the El Monte Club. Later, Sally, Maryann and I taught the course with her telling us what we were to teach. My area was Protocol, Parliamentary Procedure and Related Topics. Marie found the place and made all the arrangements for the sessions. Marie credited the ID program and BPW for helping her greatly and as a result, she was dedicated to helping others get ahead by providing opportunities for them to learn from the Individual Development modules.

Most of us would agree that although she was never a President of Sierra Mar District, she was the one who kept us together. She was the one who got Sierra Mar officers by perhaps twisting arms. She found places for Sierra Mar to have District meetings, copied the materials for the packets, took reservations for attendees, ordered the lunches for us and made sure everything ran according to Sierra Mar’s Bylaws and policies and procedures. By the way it has taken three people to replace her. In 2020 Sierra Mar BPW District awarded Marie Clifton its Ms. BPW plaque for her dedication to BPW and the Individual Development Program (ID). For all this Sierra Mar District awarded her Ms. BPW plaque. This was a well-deserved honor.

The celebration of her life will be Saturday, January 27th starting at 11:30 A.M. at the Spaghetti Factory in Duarte. Memories of Marie can be given at: https://obituaries.neptunesociety.com/obituaries/west-covina-ca/marie-clifton-11594141

As Mavis Hansen says, “There will never be another one like Marie, so let us be grateful to have known her and have her in our lives. I am sure she loves her new wings.”

Submitted by Linda Wilson

International Relations Chair Report

Kemi Oyebade — Tue, 02 Jan 2024 18:20:00 GMT

By:Sandra Thompson
NFBPWC’s International Chair - international@nfbpwc.org

March 2024 will bring NGO CSW68. This is held in conjunction with the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women. It will be held March 10 to the 22. NFBPWC is sponsoring a Parallel Event along with the Canadian Federation. You have two options to attend either in person or virtually.

Registration is now open. It costs nothing to register. If you have never attended before, or if you have, I encourage you to register and look at the 100s of events that are available. You can register for as many as you want for free.

It takes about 2 minutes to register. It is a very simple form. When you register, you will receive a confirmation email with pertinent information and a link to login to the virtual portal to start exploring?

To register just go to ngocsw68forum.vfairs.com.

For more information about official registration for the UN CSW, visit UN Women’s website

I hope to see you all on line or in person for this exciting event that brings women from around the world together.

Engage with NFBPWC on Social Media

Kemi Oyebade — Tue, 02 Jan 2024 18:15:00 GMT

By: Suzette Cotto NFBPWC Public Relations Chair

Engage with NFBPWC on Social Media

Organization Page:

Group Page:

Organization Page:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2l_ciIxLyvbu1dbBOsV9Tg

YouTube:

Instagram:

https://oberlinreview.org/20617/news/rapid-response-team-debuts-at-uaw-related-protests/

JANUARY Highlights in US Women’s History

January 3, 1949 – Margaret Chase Smith (R-Maine) starts her tenure in the Senate, where she stays in office until 1973, became the first woman to serve in both the House and Senate as she previously served in the House (1940-49)
January 5, 1925 – Nellie Tayloe Ross is inaugurated as the first woman Governor in U.S. history (Governor of Wyoming)
January 7, 1896 – Fanny Farmer’s first cookbook is published in which she standardized cooking

measurements

January 7, 1955 – Marian Anderson is the first African American woman to sing at the Metropolitan Opera
January 8, 1977 – Anna Pauline “Pauli” Murray is the first African American woman ordained to the Episcopal priesthood, by Bishop William F. Creighton at Washington National Cathedral in Washington D.C.
January 11, 1935 – Amelia Earhart makes the first solo flight from Hawaii to North America
January 12, 1932 – Hattie Wyatt Caraway (D- Arkansas) is the first woman elected to the U.S. Senate, becomes the first woman to chair a Senate Committee and the first to serve as the Senate’s presiding officer
January 25, 1890 – Nellie Bly, journalist, completed her around the world trip in 72 days, 6 hours, 11 minutes, and 14 seconds after setting sail east to prove she could circle the globe in less than 80 days
January 25, 1980 – Mary Decker became the first woman to run a mile under 4 1/2 minutes, running it at 4:17.55
January 29, 1926 – Violette Neatly Anderson is the first black woman to practice law before the U.S. Supreme Court

(Source: https://nationalwomenshistoryalliance.org/january/)

Public Relations Committee Report

Kemi Oyebade — Tue, 02 Jan 2024 18:10:00 GMT

By: Suzette Cotto
NFBPWC Public Relations Chair

Navigating the Digital Frontier:

Key Considerations for Business Professional Women in 2024

As we step into the new year, the landscape of business communication continues to evolve at an unprecedented pace, driven by technological advancements and global changes. For business professionals, staying ahead of the curve in online communications is

crucial for success in 2024. One of the most effective ways to achieve this is through upskilling – acquiring new skills and refining existing ones to adapt to the demands of the digital age.

The Dynamics of Online Communication

As we move forward in 2024, business professionals need to pay attention to several key aspects of online communication.

Cybersecurity Awareness

With an increasing reliance on digital platforms, the risk of cyber threats also rises. Business professionals should prioritize cybersecurity awareness to safeguard sensitive information. Even simple password management app is a crucial step to securing your sensitive information, especially when passwords are shared.

Adapting to New Platforms

The digital landscape is dynamic, with new communication platforms emerging regularly. Business professionals should stay abreast of emerging trends and technologies, exploring platforms that resonate with their target audience. Being adaptable and willing to experiment with new tools is essential.

Enhancing Visual Communication

In an era dominated by multimedia content, mastering visual communication is imperative. Professionals should focus on creating compelling visuals, whether through graphics, videos, or presentations. Visual content not only captures attention but also facilitates better understanding.

Embracing AI and Automation

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and automation are revolutionizing online communication. Business professionals need to understand how AI can streamline processes, enhance customer interactions, and improve overall efficiency. Upskilling in AI-related areas will be a significant advantage in 2024.

The Benefits of Upskilling

Upskilling is not just a buzzword; it's a strategic necessity in today's fast-paced business environment. Here are some compelling reasons why business professionals should prioritize upskilling in the new year:

Remain Relevant in a Changing Landscape

The business landscape constantly evolves, and those who fail to adapt risk becoming obsolete. Upskilling ensures that professionals remain relevant and equipped to tackle the challenges of a digital future.

Increased Productivity and Efficiency

Acquiring new skills can lead to improved productivity and efficiency. Upskilling in areas such as project management, data analysis, or digital marketing can streamline processes and help professionals achieve better results in less time.

Enhanced Problem-Solving Abilities

Upskilling often involves developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills. As professionals gain new knowledge, they become better equipped to analyze situations, make informed decisions, and navigate complex challenges.

Competitive Advantage in the Job Market

In a competitive job market, possessing a diverse skill set sets professionals apart. Employers value individuals who demonstrate a commitment to continuous learning, making upskilling a valuable asset for career advancement.

Future-Proofing Careers

Technology is advancing rapidly, and jobs that exist today may evolve or be replaced by new roles. Upskilling ensures that professionals are prepared for the future, capable of adapting to changing job requirements and industry trends.

As we embark on the journey of 2024, women business professionals must pay close attention to the evolving landscape of online communication. Embracing new platforms, prioritizing cybersecurity, and mastering visual communication are critical components of success. Furthermore, investing in upskilling is not just a personal growth initiative; it is a strategic move to ensure relevance, efficiency, and competitiveness in the ever-changing business landscape of the digital age.

NFBPWC will be offering training courses in the coming year that will help you stay on top of your skillset and give you tools to help you upskill to be ready for any professional opportunity.

Rapid Response Committee Report

Kemi Oyebade — Tue, 02 Jan 2024 17:55:00 GMT

By: Susan E. Oser
NFBPWC Rapid Response Committee Chair

Examples of Rapid Response Statements –

In the past you have seen some of our statements on various issues, even issued by our president. Have you ever wondered what other organizations come out with Rapid Response-like comments or how they organize their own version? Here are just a few

From the Washington College of Law American University – Rapid Response Panel: The Systematic Targeting of Journalists and Activists at Our Border - https://www.wcl.american.edu/news-events/events/detail/7656/

Rapid Response Team Debuts at UAW-Related Protests -

UnitedSteelWorkers - https://www.usw.org/act/activism/rapid-response

If you think that maybe there should be a workshop on Rapid Response or how it works within the coming year or you know of other organizations with a Rapid Response program, please let me know.

Please connect with Sue Oser at rapidresponse@nfbpwc.orgif you have any ideas on topics that should be focused on and discussed as we get into the big election cycle.

ERA Team Report

Kemi Oyebade — Tue, 02 Jan 2024 17:20:00 GMT

By: Nancy Werner
NFBPWC Advocacy Team ERA Lead

EQUAL RIGHTS AMENDMENT 100^th ANNIVERSARY MARCH

Advocacy – Equal Rights Amendment. “Equality of rights under the law shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or any State on account of sex” needs to be placed into our Constitution. While most states have laws prohibiting discrimination of any kind based on sex, proponents of the E.R.A. say laws can be reversed or eliminated. Having a Constitutional Amendment would cement those rights.

Wednesday, December 13^th came and went with little news on the media. The ERA- Coalition worked hard for us to remember that is was December 13, 1923 when the ERA was first introduced in Congress. They invited every group who has voiced or has promoted the ERA passage. (For this list, please go to the Pennsylvania section and search for Lilly Gioia’s-January 2024 Legislation/Advocacy Report. She did a remarkable job researching the groups.)

But it was the weekly Ms. Memo: This Week in Women’s Rights had more information shared under-“100 Years, Not one More”: ERA Advocated Rally on Centennial Anniversary. Madelyn Amos, author, provided an excellent description of the day that started in Lafayette Square. The chants of “not one more year” were heard. The activists marched from the White House to the Capitol with the one mission –not one more year should pass without rights being protected by the Constitution on the basis of sex.

Lilly got it right that they made a few stops along the way. They made sure to visit the department of Justice to ask Attorney Merrick General Garland to remove the Trump Administration OLC memo that is blocking the ERA’s path. They then marched to visit the National Archives where U.S. Archivist Colleen Shogan was told that the ERA has met all the requirements according to Article V and to be published as the 28^th Amendment. It was here that Rep. Cori Bush, D-MO, met the group. She shared all the work highlighting the work of women of color to fight for equality. (Sidebar – Denice Robinson and I met her at the Seneca Falls gathering this past summer and she is a passionate dynamo for the ERA passage.)

But you can’t have a march without a press conference. At the House triangle, Rep. Ayanna Pressley (D-MA) was the main speaker but she was joined by many – Rep. Jennifer McClellan (D-VA); Gloria L. Blackwell, CEO of American Association of University Women; Honorable Carolyn Maloney, Board Chair of ERA Coalition and former U.S. representative; Eleanor Smeal, President of Feminist Majority; Shalina Effendi, organizer of Generation Ratify; Kase Solomon, League of Women Voters; and, Margaret Mitchell, CEO of YWCA USA. (The photo above is as Eleanor Smeal speaking.)

One very important task for all of us – Call Colleen Shogan at 202-357-5900 – Here is your message – My name is. I am calling from (name your state). I am asking that you do your duty and publish the Equal Rights Amendment as the 28^th Amendment. The E.R.

A. has fulfilled the requirements set forth in Article Five of the Constitution and we can wait no longer for full constitutional protection.

It is all written out for you. Please try it.

Also, if you haven’t signed the http://www.sign4era.orgto receive notifications, please do so. We are looking for a million signers. Please keep in touch with your Senators using the NFBPWC “One Click.” We have been promised a revisit and we need to be ready. Keep clicking.

I was so hoping that the ERA might be achieved this year, but everyone went home in Washington D.C. - the House and Senate for the Holidays. There are so many issues that need attention. We need to keep working for the passage of the ERA. Just remember-Miracles do happen.

LGBTQ+ Team Report

Kemi Oyebade — Tue, 02 Jan 2024 17:15:00 GMT

By: Susan Oser
NFBPWC Advocacy Team LGBTQIA+ Lead Happy New Year!

Hoping that you all had a wonderful holiday. As we start 2024 with new energy, I thought it was time to do something new for this column. In the past, we’ve covered the flags and the organizations of the LGBTQ+ community. This year, why not focus on the icons, activists and other people that make up this wonderful community. Just as we do in our own organization sharing the stories of the women around us and the women that make up the history of the BPW organization, it makes sense to do the same for this column. If you have any suggestions or personally know of someone you think should be highlighted this year for the column, please contact me at the email address below.

In addition to the icons, I’ll be sharing the good news and the bad news of what is happening within the community. It is still important to be aware of the current court cases in proceedings, discriminatory actions and more so that we as an organization can be better allies. At the same time, we also need to share and celebrate the good too.

LGBTQ+ Icon of the Month: Demi Lovato

Why highlight?

She is a popular singer-songwriter that came out as pansexual this year on the popular Joe Rogan Experience show. Their songs are beautiful, and they have been nominated for a Grammy. They are a popular icon among the younger demographic.

Source(s): https://www.demilovato.com/#/

Good LGBTQ+ News for January:

New Legislation Package Introduced in Michigan: Removing Barriers for Legal Name Change; Accurate ID Documents and Birth Certificates – http://tinyurl.com/3h43jjrcTransgender, gender non-conforming, and non- binary people with incongruent identity documents are at a greater risk of experiencing violence and discrimination. Some states make it difficult and expensive for trans people to update their birth certificates or other identity documents, with some even requiring trans people to undergo surgery just to get an amended document.

We Are Here: LGBTQ+ Adult Population in United States Reaches At Least 20 Million, According to Human Rights Campaign Foundation Report - http://tinyurl.com/y5scnwasAccording to an analysis of data in the Census Bureau’s recent Household Pulse Survey, 8% of respondents identified themselves as LGBTQ+, suggesting previous surveys undercounted the population.

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer appoints members to state’s first LGBTQ+ Commission. http://tinyurl.com/49zu8y7vThe Governor named 13 members to the LGBTQ+ Commission the week of November 26th. The commissioners have not yet met and will set goals for improving life for the LGBTQ+ community in Michigan.

And now for the BAD news:

UNAIDS officials say anti-gay laws impede fight against HIV/AIDS. http://tinyurl.com/5n6mbhddSixty-seven countries have laws that criminalize gay sex. In those countries, HIV prevalence rates are about five times higher among gay men than in countries where same-sex relations are not criminalized, according to figures from UNAIDS.

Republican Congressman: Pass National Sports Ban To Make Trans People Detransition http://tinyurl.com/3zeeejyhRepresentative Glenn Grothman, in a hearing to ban trans people from playing sports of their gender identity, said a trans sports ban must pass because otherwise, trans people won't "switch back."

If you have any news or leads on anything related to LGBTQ+ news, issues, and organizations, please contact Sue Oser at soser@nfbpwc.org

Celebrations of Life

Kemi Oyebade — Tue, 02 Jan 2024 17:05:00 GMT

TWILA STOUT, February 8, 1938-November 27, 2023

I have known Twila Stout for more than 40 years. We originally met when I was the Merced County Librarian, and she worked in the main library. I was quickly impressed with her warmth, intelligence and sense of humor. One day I invited her out to lunch. As Twila has said many times – “Be wary of Bosses inviting you out to lunch.” I told her about the Business and Professional Women’s organization and invited her to join the Merced BPW, which she did. When anyone asked Twila how she became a BPW member, she would tell this story. When Merced BPW closed, she joined East Los Angeles-Montebello BPW (my Club) even though she was a long way from East Los Angeles-Montebello. When we were on Zoom, she would Zoom in, but only attended one in-person meeting and that was when she stayed with me for a couple of days. She also was a Dual Member of Berkeley and Downtown Sacramento BPW Clubs and would attend those meetings via Zoom.

She was born in Rose Bud, Arkansas, but left there as a child. She graduated from school in Merced. She married a contractor George “Bud” Stout so flew with him to various places around the United States where he was working. They had a son Tim, a daughter Terri, four grandchildren, six great-grandchildren and seven great- great-grandchildren. The marriage ended in divorce.

When Twila retired from the Merced County Library (although she never did really retire, but filled in at various branches when staff members were on vacation or sick), we had a roast-type program for her at the park behind the library. A large group of people from the community attended including the editor of the “Merced County Times” turned out to say they will miss her in the library.

Besides being active in BPW, she was a “Red Hat Lady” and active in Beta Sigma Phi, Merced Woman’s Club, Friends of the Merced County Library, AARP and ACPCA. She was most active in Toastmasters’ International and was in fifteen Clubs. She was the judge for many of their competitions and programs in California, the United States and around the world. She was also a mentor. The day after she died, she was to participate in the Singapore Toastmasters. They wondered why she was not there on Zoom. Twila was a wonderful storyteller.

Twila will be missed by all who knew her. Let’s all raise a glass of Coke to her as that is what she would have each day for breakfast, and let’s all continue to support and mentor others.

Linda Wilson, President, East Los Angeles-Montebello BPW

Jackie Melvin

See below submission from NFBPWC California Federation

With Profound Sadness from Barbara Bozeman

You may not know this, but within the small and mighty band of sisters, known as NFBPWC-North Carolina most of our members are Past State Presidents for BPW/NC. A few months ago, another past president joined our ranks – Gail Bradshaw Harper, from Kenansville, North Carolina.

I’m sad to report that Gail passed away on December 19th, 2023.

What I can tell you about Gail is that she was a kind and generous friend. We could and often did spend hours just chattering away like parrots, talking about so many things – and not just our BPW connection. She loved travelling and architecture. So many times, we talked about taking a road trip up to where I was from in RI because she always wanted to tour the mansions. She was also a competitive horsewoman in her youth. She talked of those days with great pride and joy.

Barbara Bozeman, Gail Harper and Marsha Riibner-Cady during Installation of Barbara as NC President

In her professional life, numbers were her “thing.” Gail spent many years working for others in accounting and then opened her own successful business “Accounting Solutions by Gail Harper” in her hometown of Kenansville.

She first joined BPW in 2004 and after only 4 years working at the club level, she stepped up to serve and enhance the North Carolina state organization and from 2010 to 2011, she served as the State President.

She was motivated to help anyone in need – and a great believer in and supporter of what the Business and Professional Women’s Clubs are all about. She championed many causes and helped support many efforts, the impact of which is immeasurable.

She is survived by her husband Wyatt, daughters Jessica and Jamie, and grandchildren, Ariel, Chloe, Nelson, and William and her brother Gary. She adored and cherished her family.

Most of you will never have the privilege of knowing Gail as we did. I know I speak for the North Carolinians when I say - We loved her very dearly, and we shall miss her so very much.

2024 NFBPWC Biennial Conference: Equality Has No Deadline!

Kemi Oyebade — Sun, 03 Dec 2023 17:20:00 GMT

July 18-21, 2024

Sheraton Valley Forge

King of Prussia, Pennsylvania

Registration opens soon!

Save the date and make some plans to meet fellow members in Pennsylvania! This is a hybrid event where you can attend in-person or online. You have the opportunity to re-connect with old friends, make new ones, and work together with your BPW colleagues from all over the United States and the globe!

You are invited to attend our General Assembly sessions. Virtual or in-person, we have options for you!

Hear from a fascinating lineup of speakers, participate in workshops and elections, and kick back to enjoy happy hour receptions, good food including a Gala Awards Dinner, tours of the area, and entertainment!

International Relations Chair Report

Kemi Oyebade — Sun, 03 Dec 2023 17:15:00 GMT

By: Sandra Thompson
NFBPWC’s International Chair, international@nfbpwc.org

CSW68 is coming in March 2024 in New York.

Here is some information concerning the upcoming event. Remember you can view many of the Parallel events for free online. If you have not done this, I recommend you try it next year. There are some great events to choose from.

NGO CSW68 Forum:

Information about the NGO CSW68 Forum: ngocsw.org/ngocsw68/
NGO CSW68 Forum FAQs
Virtual and in-person Parallel Event applications are open now until Monday, 4 December.
Apply to sell goods at the NGO CSW68 in-person Artisan Fair! The deadline to apply is Monday, 19 January 2024.
Registration for the NGO CSW68 Forum will open in December. The registration is open to the public. No ECOSOC-accreditation, affiliation with an organization, or any other qualifications are required. We will send an email to our mailing list and post on social media when registration opens.
We will be updating our Advocacy Toolkit for CSW68. In the meantime, you can use the NGO CSW67 Advocacy Toolkit as a helpful resource. We will share the updated Advocacy Toolkit as soon as it's available!
For questions or information about the NGO CSW68 Forum, contact NGO CSW/NY at info@ngocsw.org.

UN CSW68:

Information about the UN CSW68: unwomen.org/en/csw/csw68-2024
Registration for the UN CSW68 is now open for ECOSOC-accredited NGOs.
CSW68 Expert Group Meeting information and papers

For questions or information about the UN CSW68, contact UN Women at

csw@unwomen.org

United Nations Report

Kemi Oyebade — Sun, 03 Dec 2023 17:10:00 GMT

By: Susan O’Malley
IFBPWC UN Representative NGO CSW/NY, Chair ex officio Professor Emerita, City University of New York UNChair@nfbpwc.org susanomalley4@gmail.co

Public Relations Committee Report

Kemi Oyebade — Sun, 03 Dec 2023 17:05:00 GMT

By: Suzette Cotto NFBPWC Public Relations Chair

Engage with NFBPWC on Social Media

Organization Page:

Group Page:

Organization Page:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2l_ciIxLyvbu1dbBOsV9Tg

YouTube:

Instagram:

December Highlights in US Women’s History

December 9, 2002 – Award-winning ABC News journalist, Michele Norris, becomes the first African American female regular co-host of National Public Radio’s news magazine, All Things Considered, she stepped down in 2012
December 10, 1869 – Wyoming is the first territory to give women the right to vote
December 10, 1938 – Pearl S. Buck receives the Nobel Prize for Literature for The Good Earth
December 13, 1993 – Susan A. Maxman becomes first woman president of the American Institute of Architects in its 135 year history
December 14, 1961 – President’s Commission on the Status of Women is established to examine discrimination against women and ways to eliminate it
December 14, 1985 – Wilma Mankiller is sworn in as principal chief of the Cherokee Nation of Oklahoma – the first woman in modern history to lead a major Native American tribe

December 17, 1993 – Judith Rodin is named president of Univ. of Pennsylvania, the first woman to head an Ivy League institution

December 28, 1967 – Muriel Siebert becomes the first woman to own a seat on the N.Y. Stock Exchange

(Source: https://nationalwomenshistoryalliance.org/december/)

Gender Based Violence Committee Report

Kemi Oyebade — Sat, 02 Dec 2023 18:10:00 GMT

By: Veera Mahajan
NFBPWC Gender Based Violence Committee Chair

Empowering Women: Embrace Self-Respect and Self-Love to Eradicate Domestic Abuse

In today's world, where women play pivotal roles in the business sphere, it's crucial to recognize the significance of self-respect, self-love, and their connection to combating abuse at home and at the workplace. As empowered businesswomen, it's our responsibility to foster awareness and advocate for change in societal attitudes towards these issues.

Understanding Self-Respect and Self-Love:

Self-respect is the cornerstone of empowerment. It involves acknowledging one's inherent worth and setting boundaries that honor personal values. Self-love complements this by nurturing a compassionate relationship with oneself. These principles are vital in building a foundation for a strong, empowered individual.

Domestic Abuse: Breaking the Silence:

Unfortunately, domestic abuse remains a pervasive issue affecting women across all walks of life. It's crucial to recognize the signs and understand that abuse is not just physical; it encompasses emotional, financial, and psychological aspects. By breaking the silence and fostering an open dialogue, we create a safe space for victims to seek support. By speaking up we also encourage women to speak up when an imbalance of power shows up at work.

Empowerment through Self-Respect:

Empowerment begins with respecting oneself. In the business world, it translates to setting boundaries, advocating for fair treatment, and rejecting any form of discrimination or abuse. Encouraging a workplace culture that prioritizes respect and inclusion is pivotal in empowering women.

Self-love isn't indulgent; it's necessary for mental and emotional well-being. By practicing self-care, nurturing healthy relationships, and embracing personal growth, we fortify ourselves against external negativity. This resilience allows us to navigate challenges, including those stemming from domestic abuse.

I did a fundraiser in October for Period Poverty through my foundation called Foundation for Women at Risk. We help underprivileged women in Agra, India. These young girls and women in India are kept in dark rooms for the five days they have periods like something is wrong with them. The group I work with is called Indian Dream Foundation. This group produces sanitary napkins and donates them to the local girls and women who cannot afford them. They also educate the girls and their families about period hygiene and that this is a normal biological phenomenon. So, the girls are not looked down upon and so the girls feel good about themselves.

During my recent trip to India, I met a lot of men and women including Jalpa Vithalani, President of NFBPW, Mumbai, who are very dedicated to supporting this very important and natural medical condition.

(Pictured Right: Jalpa and Veera)

As businesswomen, our platform allows us to amplify voices and initiate change. Engaging in awareness campaigns, supporting organizations dedicated to combating domestic abuse, and using our influence to advocate for policy changes are impactful ways to create a ripple effect of empowerment.

The journey towards empowerment, driven by self-respect and self-love, is intertwined with the fight against domestic abuse. As businesswomen, let's harness our strength, knowledge, and network to foster a culture of respect, support victims, and drive meaningful change.

Rapid Response Committee Report

Kemi Oyebade — Sat, 02 Dec 2023 17:50:00 GMT

By: Susan E. Oser
NFBPWC Rapid Response Committee Chair

What is your rapid response issue?

My job as the Rapid Response Chair is to seek out issues that the organization can take a voice on that connect to our mission and legislative platform.

And while there is an organizational mode behind the issues, what about you the individual?

Are there any issues that are valuable and speak close to your heart and in a heartbeat, you would post a social media link, video, or share an article about? What is that issue that speaks to you that you are willing to fight for and make it your personal issue.

If you have such an issue that speaks close to your heart, then perhaps that is your personal rapid response issue. You don’t need organizational backing or its voice to do it because it is your path. But if you need ideas or support, connecting to an organization like NFBPWC can be a great starting point for you.

Please connect with Sue Oser at rapidresponse@nfbpwc.org if you have any ideas on topics that should be focused on and discussed as we get into the big election cycle.

Health Committee Report

Kemi Oyebade — Sat, 02 Dec 2023 17:45:00 GMT

By: Keri Hess Laursen
NFBPWC Health Committee Chair, Downtown Sacramento Member Health@NFBPWC.org

The Health Committee is seeking a co-chair, no experience required!

The Health Committee currently meets the 2nd Monday of each month at 5pm PST.

Please email Keri at: health@nfbpwc.org to inquire about serving as co-chair or to get on the Health Committee listserv.

ERA Team Report

Kemi Oyebade — Sat, 02 Dec 2023 17:15:00 GMT

By: Nancy Werner
NFBPWC Advocacy Team ERA Lead

EQUAL RIGHTS AMENDMENT

UNITED NATIONS HUMAN RIGHTS COMMITTEE MET ON

OCTOBER 30, 2023

Back in 1979, the most important human rights statement for women was written by the United Nations Human Rights Committee. CEDAW. It stands for Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women. Across the world 189 nations ratified it but United States, Sudan, Somalia, Iran, Tonga, and Palau. Going back in time President Jimmy Carter signed CEDAW on July 1, 1980, but it failed to be ratified by our Congress many times over. Why? We have Republicans who kept saying it would legalize abortion rights. But we have supporters of this document who continue to argue for its passage.

Now let’s fast forward to October 30, 2023. The United Nations Human Rights Committee met in Geneva, Switzerland and shared that the United States government should provide protection against sex-and-gender–based-discrimination by adopting the Equal Rights Amendment. Members of the U.S. Equal Rights Coalition, Equality Now and other leading U.S. women’s rights organizations addressed the committee. The report of the UN Committee wanted the United States to redouble its efforts to guarantee protection against sex and gender-based discrimination in the Constitution. The Equal Rights Amendment is fundamental to achieve sex and gender equality. And this statement goes hand in hand with ratifying CEDAW.

This endorsement provides us with information to contact our Congressional leaders. Use the one-click to share that you wish CEDAW and the ERA to come to the floor. Also, if you haven’t signed the http://www.sign4era.org to receive notifications, please do. Please keep in touch with your Senators using the NFBPWC “One Click.” You know how your Senators voted back In April. We have been promised a revisit and we need to be ready. Keep clicking!

LGBTQ+ Team Report

Kemi Oyebade — Sat, 02 Dec 2023 17:10:00 GMT

By: Susan Oser
NFBPWC Advocacy Team LGBTQIA+ Lead

Organization of the Month: LGBT Foundation

Why highlight?

The LGBT Foundations is a national charity for LGBTQ+ health, wellness and serve as a lifeline for those in need. Their mission is to empower LGBTQ+ people to realize their full potential every day. Their vision is the belief that queer liberation enables meaningful and lasting change.

Based out of Manchester, England, the website has a lot of information that can also be of value for those stateside and perhaps create or enhance programs in local communities. It’s a also a great way to see how another country takes care of the community.

Source(s):https://lgbtfoundation.start.page/

https://lgbt.foundation/

FYI Positive LGBTQ+ for December:

Former headquarters of lesbian feminist group under consideration for National Historic Landmark designation. https://tinyurl.com/mssjc9s4 A rowhouse on Capitol Hill served as the headquarters for the Furies Collective, a lesbian feminist group, in the 1970’s. The National Park System’s National Historic Landmarks Committee is scheduled to discuss and make a recommendation on the Furies Collective house designation at a Nov. 16th virtual meeting.
Dolly Parton expresses support for trans community in interview. https://tinyurl.com/usfx954a In an interview with the Hollywood Reporter, Parton said, “I just want everybody to be treated good” when asked about Tennessee's anti-trans laws. She went on to say that trans people are God’s children like everyone else and she loves the trans people in her life.
What To Watch For When Invited To A Documentary On "Trans Issues" https://tinyurl.com/3u5crbsp The uptick in anti-trans documentaries is inadvertently ensnaring trans people and supporters. Here's how to stay vigilant and not be tricked into appearing in a right-wing documentary.

The following is an overview of or ALL LGBTQ+ legislation in the news:

Anti-trans platforms lose elections - https://tinyurl.com/2v22ntew Tuesday’s elections in Kentucky, Virginia, Ohio, and Pennsylvania showed the limits of anti-trans messaging.

Families ask SCOTUS to review Appeals Court ruling allowing enforcement of medically necessary care ban in Kentucky. https://tinyurl.com/bddz8kua The families are represented by the ACLU of Kentucky, NCLR and two law firms.

If you have any news or leads on anything related to LGBTQ+ news, issues, and organizations, please contact Sue Oser at soser@nfbpwc.org

2024 NFBPWC Biennial Conference: Equality Has No Deadline!

Kemi Oyebade — Thu, 02 Nov 2023 18:15:00 GMT

NATIONAL FEDERATION OF BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONAL WOMEN'S BIENNIAL CONFERENCE

EQUALITY HAS NO DEADLINE!

July 18-21, 2024

Sheraton Valley Forge King of Prussia, Pennsylvania

Registration opens soon!

You are invited to attend our General Assembly sessions. Virtual or in-person, we have options for you!

Nominations Report

Kemi Oyebade — Thu, 02 Nov 2023 18:10:00 GMT

By: Manjul Batra
NFBPWC Nominations Chair, nominations@nfbpwc.org

Forms for National elective office & Chairmanships will be sent out early for Clubs to prepare their members for leadership positions for the term 2024-2026.

Recommendation:

Club President’s identify their members for club leadership or National positions and support their

development during the club year.

As recommended earlier a scheduled independent National training program be organized for club leaders who intend to run for National Office or Chairmanships.

International Relations Chair Report

Kemi Oyebade — Thu, 02 Nov 2023 18:00:00 GMT

By:Sandra Thompson, NFBPWC’s International Chair,

international@nfbpwc.org

The South American Region held their Regional Conference was held September 6 to 10 in Santigo, Chilie.

Some of our members were in attendance and have reported that they had a great time. One of the featured speakers was our own Past National President, Bessie Hironimus. Also, attending was Dave Hironimus, Manjul Batra, Sujata Easton and Ellora Easton.

(Pictured Left) Manjul Batra and Sujata Easton placing their fingers on the top of the tallest building in Chilie.

(Pictured Top Right) Ellora Easton, Sujata Easton and Manjul Batra. Three generations of BPW members. Manjul’s mother was also a long time BPW member, including being President of India. What a wonderful BPW heritage.

Manjul in the meeting room

Ellora and Manjul

Dave and Bessie Hironimus (Pictured Left)

Bessie, Anu Viks, RC Europe And Dawn Wells RC No. America (Pictured Right)

ElloraandBessie

(Pictured Left)

United Nations Report

Kemi Oyebade — Thu, 02 Nov 2023 17:55:00 GMT

By:Susan O’Malley

IFBPWC UN Representative NGO CSW/NY, Chair ex officio Professor Emerita, City University of New York UNChair@nfbpwc.org susanomalley4@gmail.com

IFBPW Summits CSW68 Statement to UN Women

NGOs in consultative status with the Economic and Social Council

(ECOSOC) may submit written statements on the thematic issues considered by CSW68, in accordance with Council resolution 1996/31. IFBPW President Catherine Bosshart submitted our Statement on October 13. It is attached below.

The Priority Theme for CSW68 is “Accelerating the achievement of gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls by addressing poverty and strengthening institutions and financing with a gender perspective.”
The Review Theme is “Social protection systems, access to public services and sustainable infrastructure for

gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls (agreed conclusionsof the sixty-third session.”)

The active participation of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) is a critical element in the work of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW). NGOs have been influential in shaping the current global policy framework on women’s empowerment and gender equality: the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action. They continue to play an important role in holding international and national leaders accountable for the commitments they made in the Platform for Action.

To prepare the CSW68 Statement, Chularat Israngkool, 1^st VP for UN with her UN Committee, gathered material from BPW members and prepared a first draft. Helena Finn, Chair of the UN IFBPW Representatives, helped with this process. Then it was sent to me to edit. I recognized excellent material from Lesha Witmer, Tess Mateo, and Marie-Claude. (There were other excellent contributors too. The material did not include names of the contributors as no names are allowed in the CSW68 Statement.) President Bosshart reviewed the final document, and we both gathered names of ECOSOC-accredited NGOs to sign on to our CSW68 Statement.

CSW 68 Parallel Events Information

Applications for CSW 68 Parallel Events are now open. The deadline is 4 December. IFBPW may submit only one in person parallel event but multiple virtual parallel events. Consult the NGO CSW 68 information on the NGO CSW/NY Website.

If you have questions, you may email me at susanomalley4@gmail.com. I will go over your parallel event submission if you have questions.

Click on the image below to open the PDF Statement, or click HERE.

Public Relations Committee Report

Kemi Oyebade — Thu, 02 Nov 2023 17:50:00 GMT

By: Suzette Cotto NFBPWC Public Relations Chair

Engage with NFBPWC on Social Media

Organization Page:

Group Page:

Organization Page:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2l_ciIxLyvbu1dbBOsV9Tg

YouTube:

Instagram:

Source(s): https://www.erininthemorning.com/p/11th-circuit-court-upholds-ruling?r=k9h1j&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web

October Highlights in US Women’s History

November Highlights in US Women’s History

November 1, 1848 – First medical school for women, the New England Female Medical School, opens, in 1874 it merges with Boston University to become one of the world’s first co-ed medical schools.
November 8, 1910 – The state of Washington passes a constitutional amendment to guarantee woman suffrage.
November 8, 1984 – Dr. Anna L. Fisher, a physician on the shuttle Discovery, becomes the first American mother and third American woman to fly into space.
November 11, 1979 – Bethune Museum and Archives opens in Washington D.C. as a center for African-American

women’s history, honoring Mary McLeod Bethune.

November 11, 1993 – The Vietnam Women’s Memorial is dedicated in Washington, D.C. after being conceived by former army combat nurse Diane Carlson Evans and sculpted by Glenna Goodacre to honor the 265,000 women who voluntarily served during the Vietnam era.
November 13, 1938 – Mother Francis Xavier Cabrini is beatified, the first American woman citizen to become a saint.

November 14, 1889 – Journalist Elizabeth Cochran, aka Nellie Bly, sails around the world in 72 days, 6 hours, 11 minutes, and 14 seconds, beating the fictional record set by Phineas Fogg in Jules Verne’s Around the World in Eighty Days
November 14, 1903 – The U.S.

Women’s Trade Union League is

established.

November 14, 1946 – Emily Greene

Vietnam Women's Memorial (Source: National Park service

(NPS.GOV)

Balch, co-founder of the Women’s International League for Peace and Freedom, is awarded the Nobel Peace Prize.

November 28, 1881 – The first organizational meeting is held for the predecessor group to the American Association of University Women (AAUW).

(Source: https://nationalwomenshistoryalliance.org/november/)

Rapid Response Committee Report

Kemi Oyebade — Thu, 02 Nov 2023 17:15:00 GMT

By: Susan E. Oser

NFBPWC Rapid Response Committee Chair

What is your rapid response issue?

My job as the Rapid Response Chair is to seek out issues that the organization can take a voice on that connect to our mission and legislative platform.

And while there is an organizational mode behind the issues, what about you the individual?

Please connect with Sue Oser at rapidresponse@nfbpwc.orgif you have any ideas on topics that should be focused on and discussed as we get into the big election cycle.

Health Committee Report

Kemi Oyebade — Thu, 02 Nov 2023 17:10:00 GMT

Keri Hess Laursen, NFBPWC Health Committee Chair, Downtown Sacramento Member Health@NFBPWC.orgThe Health Committee is seeking a co-chair, no experience required!

The Health Committee currently meets the 2nd Monday of each month at 5pm PST.

Please email Keri at: health@nfbpwc.orgto inquire about serving as co-chair or to get on the Health Committee listserv.

Digital Training

Kemi Oyebade — Thu, 02 Nov 2023 16:30:00 GMT

By: Teressa Gehrke
Digital Training Chair | digitaltraining@nfbpwc.org

Handling the Holidays

Feeling overwhelmed by advertisements and pressure to buy for the holidays? You’re not the only one. The holidays are known for joyful moments and stress. With kids and grandkids home over the holiday break, it’s a great time to rethink how much screen time they should spend on the TV, phone, gaming and other electronic devices.

It has been well researched that too much screen time can cause adverse health effects. I remember reading The Berenstains Bears and Too Much TV as a child. The cubs wanted to watch TV instead of playing outside or reading. I have a feeling Mama Bear wouldn’t be happy if she saw how technology has changed. The point is to have measured time for entertainment, family time, and being in tune with nature.

Reducing Screen Time for Youth

In a 2021 report from Common Sense Media, they “estimated tweens spend an average of 5 hours and 33 minutes using screen-based entertainment each day, while teenagers devote a whopping 8 hours and 39 minutes. A surge in screen use has led to some individuals, including children, adolescents and adults, developing screen-related addictions.”

These disordered addictions have been linked to lower cognitive function. The research found that individuals with disordered screen use have “significantly poorer cognitive performance compared to others” without the disorder and found they also had lower attention spans. This hinders executive functioning and learning capabilities.

Better Health Outcomes

Staring at a screen for an extended period of time can lead to eye strain, fatigue, headaches, blurred vision, dry and itchy eyes. Taking consistent breaks from the screen can help minimize these effects because it allows the eyes to rest and focus on something else.

People who use digital devices daily such as office workers and gamers should be taking consistent screen breaks to ensure they get enough rest mentally and physically.

When spending long periods of time in front of a screen, it’s important to take short breaks often. You can take 5-10 minutes every hour, rather than 20 minutes every 2 hours. If needed, you can follow the 20-20-20 Rule. After spending 20 minutes on a screen, take a break and look at an object 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This will help with eye strain and fatigue.

Now, stop reading this blog and go for a nice walk outside.

For additional assistance or questions, email: digitaltraining@nfbpwc.org

Additional resources:

Art provided by Vecteezy
Screen Time by JM Grafix
Holiday by Teeradej Srikijvilaikul
Health by Muhammad Khaleeq

ERA Team Report

Kemi Oyebade — Thu, 02 Nov 2023 16:25:00 GMT

By: Nancy Werner
NFBPWC Advocacy Team ERA Lead

EQUAL RIGHTS AMENDMENT-E.R.A. IS BIG TIME in the News

LGBTQ+ Team Report

Kemi Oyebade — Thu, 02 Nov 2023 16:20:00 GMT

By: Susan Oser
NFBPWC Advocacy Team LGBTQIA+ Lead

Organization of the Month: One Pulse Foundation

Why highlight?

The organization was created in honor of the victims of a terrible tragedy that occurred on June 12, 2016 at the Pulse nightclub in Orlando, Florida. 49 people were killed and at least 53 were wounded. It is a community of people whose purpose is to open hearts and minds to the violence that happens towards the LGBTQ+ community.

Source(s): https://onepulsefoundation.org/

FYI Positive LGBTQ+ for November:

11th Circuit Court Upholds Ruling Blocking Drag Ban In a major ruling released Wednesday, the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals in the United States ruled that Florida's ban on drag will continue to be blocked from enforcement statewide.

Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) releases proposed enforcement guidance to protect LGBTQ+ workers from harassment. The new guidance, released on September 29th, was adopted by a 3-2 vote of the EEOC commissioners. It includes protections against harassment for LGBTQ+ workers and protections against harassment in virtual work environments.

Source(s): https://www.reuters.com/legal/government/eeoc-renews-bid-update-workplace-harassment-guidance-2023-09-29/?eType=EmailBlastContent&eId=d8c14ad0-d0c8-4902-97b1-00815b0a23f5

The ‘first English-language trans novel’ adapted for stage. The International Theatre Program at the University of Rochester is launching its production of Sarah Ruhl’s “Orlando” this October. This production offers an exploration of identity and gender fluidity. It joins a trend of an increasing and intensifying interest in the eponymous novel by Virginia Woolf. Ruhl has described her play, which she wrote in 1998, as true to the story Woolf told in the 1928 book.

Source(s): https://www.rochester.edu/newscenter/international-theatre-fall-production-orlando-568802/?eType=EmailBlastContent&eId=d8c14ad0-d0c8-4902-97b1-00815b0a23f5

The following is an overview of or anti-LGBTQ+ legislation in the news:

Ohio Republican Says Bathroom Ban Has Nothing to Do with Trans People. Only ten states ban transgender people from bathrooms. While most bans focus on K-12 schools, three states go beyond that and target adults in other places. Ohio may become the fourth if HB183 passes.

Source(s): https://www.erininthemorning.com/p/ohio-republican-says-bathroom-ban?r=k9h1j&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web

Federal Appeals Court allows Kentucky and Tennessee to enforce bans on medically necessary care for trans and non-binary youth. The Sixth Circuit Court upheld Kentucky’s and Tennessee’s bans on

medically necessary gender-affirming care on September 28th by a 2-1 vote. Lawyers for the families who brought the Tennessee challenge called the ruling a “devastating result for transgender youth and their families” and said they were “assessing [their] next steps” in defense of transgender rights.

Source(s): https://www.nbcnews.com/nbc-out/out-politics-and-policy/appeals-court-upholds-tennessee-kentucky-bans-trans-care-minors-rcna118056

If you have any news or leads on anything related to LGBTQ+ news, issues, and organizations, please contact Sue Oser at soser@nfbpwc.org.

Immediate Past President's Report

Michele Guarino — Tue, 03 Oct 2023 18:14:33 GMT

By: Sandra Thompson
NFBPWC’s Immediate Past President

In August the East LA Montebello Club in California celebrated Women’s Equality Day at the home of Marjory Hopper. Marjory asked me to explain why we wear yellow. At the time I really had no idea, but thanks to some information from Barbara Bozeman and further research I came up with some of the reasons yellow is an important color in BPW. It was suggested that I share with all of you what I came up with, so here is my presentation.

The Meaning of Yellow

Yellow represents joy, happiness, positivity, and honor. It makes one happier and suppresses anger and frustration.

It is the most energetic color and increases confidence.

It also represents a new dawn.

Yellow is a luminous color that attracts light, exuberance, and freshness. We can’t help but be drawn in by its perky cheeriness. As world history and Western symbology expert Michael Pastoureau noted in his book Yellow: The History of a Color, yellow shares a similar likeness to gold and honey, which epitomize pleasure and abundance in ancient cultures and religions. It also signified opulence since royals would wear it in their clothing.

According to Nina Ashby, psychic and author of Simply Color Therapy, the color yellow is symbolized by the sun and represents joy, light and mental positivity. Spiritually, the color yellow is also embodied by the solar plexus chakra-the seat of power and will. Ashby points out our yellow is associated with the mind and the logical, left side of the brain that organizes information.

The suffragettes were inspired by their English sisters who wore white, purple and green. When they brought it to the United States, they changed the green to gold.

Kansas was the first state to hold a referendum on women’s suffrage in 1867. A referendum is when citizens directly vote on an issue. While the referendum was defeated (leaving Kansas women without the vote), it inspired other western states to hold similar referendums. Kansas eventually recognized a woman’s right to vote in local elections in 1887. In 1867 when women were campaigning for the referendum in Kansas, they began carrying sunflowers since that is the state flower of Kansas. This then changed the gold to yellow.

If you wore yellow roses you were for the vote for women and if you wore red roses you were against.

Empowering Women Worldwide with Digital Literacy

Kemi Oyebade — Sun, 01 Oct 2023 18:15:00 GMT

By Teressa Gehrke, Digital Training

In an era dominated by advancing technology, digital literacy is not just a skill, it's a fundamental right. For women around the globe, access to digital resources and the ability to navigate the digital landscape can be transformative. In this blog, we will explore the vital role of digital literacy in empowering women and how NFBPWC can lead in this arena.

The Significance of Digital Literacy for Women

First, digital literacy is a gateway to education. It opens doors to a wealth of educational resources, from online courses to e-books, leveling the playing field for women in pursuit of knowledge. We continually hear that education is the key to the kingdom, or in our case, queendom. What skills do you have that can elevate another woman in your life?

Second, digital literacy provides economic empowerment. Access to digital tools and platforms enables women to participate in the global economy, either through entrepreneurship or remote work opportunities. As a technology professional, who has dabbled in blockchain, I’ve seen how digital literacy and the ability to use tools like cryptocurrency can uplift a women’s collective in more impoverished areas.

Third, women can amplify their voices. Social media and digital platforms provide a stage for women to voice their opinions, advocate for change, and connect with like-minded individuals on a global scale. If we don’t hear it or see it, we can’t know about it. This can level the playing field and bring attention to humanitarian and women’s rights issues.

The Global Difference

NFBPWC is dedicated to promoting digital literacy and training among women worldwide, with the belief that a digitally empowered woman is an agent of change in her community. She can teach others, and even more importantly, teach children.

Bridging the Digital Divide

Who do you know who can provide accessibility to more women? Who do you know who can benefit from gaining access to digital resources, especially in marginalized communities? These conversations are needed to bring more women into the digital fray, but also to encourage women to join the technology or cyber security field. Globally, an estimated 25% of women are in the cyber security field and it needs to hear your unique voice.

How You Can Support Digital Literacy

Get involved by volunteering your time, skills, or resources to support NFBPW’s Digital Training efforts. Help raise awareness about the importance of digital literacy for women in their own communities and networks.

Conclusion

Digital Literacy is not just about using computers; it's about accessing opportunities, amplifying voices, and transforming lives. We’re driving change and empowering women worldwide. By supporting this cause, we can all play a part in building a more inclusive and equitable digital future.

October is National Cybersecurity Awareness Month. Having a sense of digital literacy also means you practice good habits like strong passwords, use multi-factor authentication to double up your defenses against bad hackers, and avoid clicking on phishing links, emails, and attachments. If you have any questions about security awareness, please contact me @Teressa@PopCykol.com.

Nominations Report

Kemi Oyebade — Sun, 01 Oct 2023 17:50:00 GMT

By: Manjul Batra
NFBPWC Nominations Chair, nominations@nfbpwc.org

Forms for National elective office & Chairmanships will be sent out early for Clubs to prepare their members for leadership positions for the term 2024-2026.

Recommendation:

1. Club President’s identify their members for club leadership or National positions and support their development during the club year.

2. As recommended earlier a scheduled independent National training program be organized for club leaders who intend to run for National Office or Chairmanships.

Mentoring Report

Kemi Oyebade — Sun, 01 Oct 2023 17:45:00 GMT

By: Valentina Solarin
NFBPWC’s Mentoring Chair, mentoring@nfbpwc.org

Mentoring Program Application

We're excited to announce another session of the Mentoring Program! The NFBPWC Mentoring Program matches members with each other and facilitates a mentor/mentee relationship.

Open to all members at any point in their career, mentor/mentee pairs meet virtually to discuss various topics ranging from skills, strategy, equity, and more.

We have a plethora of expertise among our members. Become a mentor!

There are equal numbers of members who are yearning to find someone to learn from and gain an understanding of something. What do you want to learn?

Vocalize an area of interest in an application so the Mentoring Program Team can find a mentor to assist you.

THE FIRST STEP is to submit an application HERE to the Mentoring Committee and explain your goals with the program.
The Mentoring Committee will then partner you and coach you through launching your mentoring relationship!

Our goal is to have every local or virtual Affiliate take part in the mentoring program. We encourage each Affiliate to have a member serve as a liaison to assist in empowering members to participate as either a mentor or mentee.

STEP 1: COMPLETE THE APPLICATION

Tell us about your mentoring expertise/skills in an area OR tell us what you would like guidance in.

Application: Apply by clicking on the registration button on this page.

You must be logged into the membership database to apply.

In the log in field, enter your email and password, then click the LOGIN button.

If you do not remember your password, click the FORGOT PASSWORD link next to the LOGIN button. Enter your email address to receive a reset password link via email.

STEP 2: APPLICATIONS ARE REVIEWED AND MATCH ATTEMPTS MADE

New matches will be asked to have an initial meeting to confirm:

there is a good fit,
goals can be established for a successful outcome, and
a time-frame for the mentoring process can be achieved.

STEP 3: COMPLETE THE MENTORING AGREEMENT

Mentor/Mentee teams are required to document their goals and agreed-to time-frame.

STEP 4: CHECKPOINT

The Mentoring Program Chair will contact the participants at random points to check on their progress and ensure that teams are working.

STEP 5: EVALUATIONS

Mentor/mentee teams submit evaluations of the process. This is invaluable feedback for the program as we move forward to determine future processes.

International Relations Chair Report

Kemi Oyebade — Sun, 01 Oct 2023 17:35:00 GMT

By: Sandra Thompson
NFBPWC’s International Chair, international@nfbpwc.org

VAN FOR THE UKRAINE

BPW International is fundraising to send a van to the Ukraine. BPW UK and A. Leclercq are leading a fundraising campaign to acquire, equip, and transport from Bulgaria a van for the benefit of BPW Chernihiv, Ukraine. Along with the van they want to fill it with much needed supplies for our BPW sisters and their families and friends.

On September 6^th the UK hosted a meeting featuring 3 women who live in Chernihiv, Ukraine for nearly 560 days of this conflict, and one who made the decision to leave and become a refugee in England. They spoke of the hardships that they are facing.

Enough money to purchase the van has been raised, but now we need to fill it with lifesaving items for the people in the Ukraine. Toward this end NFBPWC would like to support this effort. There will be a place on the national website where you can donate. Just go to https://www.nfbpwc.org/Donateand enter your information at the bottom of the webpage to donate (if you are logged into your membership account, your information will automatically populate).

Items that are needed include the following:

Well-stocked first aid kits for providing first aid (with turnstiles)
Chargers and power banks also with solar panels
Autonomous solar panels

Torches, battery-powered flashlights and floodlights (to support households and businesses during emergency situations and blackouts)
Thermoses or flasks of good quality (for 3-5 liters)
Gas touristic cookers with cylinders
Medicinal products (vitamins, for nervous system, antivirals, pain relievers, antipyretic drugs, throat lozenges that do not need to be stored in the refrigerator)
Food for babies
Sanitary-hygienic items: toothpaste, soap, shampoo, conditioner, ST’s, etc.

All items will be purchased in Bulgaria to avoid shipping costs.

We will be collecting funds until October 25^th. This will allow us time to transfer the funds to BPW International. Here is the link to donate https://www.nfbpwc.org/Donate. You can go to the bottom and just check Ukraine Van Project and make your donation.

Every little bit helps so please consider a donation of any size to this project to help others.

Public Relations Committee Report

Kemi Oyebade — Sun, 01 Oct 2023 17:15:00 GMT

By: Suzette Cotto
NFBPWC Public Relations Chair

Engage with NFBPWC on Social Media

Organization Page:

Group Page:

Organization Page:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2l_ciIxLyvbu1dbBOsV9Tg

YouTube:

Instagram:

https://protecttranshealth.org/

October Highlights in US Women’s History

October Highlights in US Women’s History

October 3, 1904 – Mary McLeod Bethune opens her first school for African-American students in Daytona Beach, Florida

October 4, 1976 – Barbara Walters becomes the first woman co-anchor of the evening news (at ABC)
October 4, 1993 – Ruth Bader Ginsburg joins the U.S. Supreme Court as its second woman Justice
October 8, 1993 – Toni Morrison becomes the first African American woman to win the Nobel Prize for Literature
October 10, 1983 – Dr. Barbara McClintock receives the Nobel Prize for Medicine for her discovery in genetics about mobile genetic elements
October 11, 1984 – Dr. Kathryn D. Sullivan is the first U.S. woman astronaut to “walk” in space during Challenger flight
October 15, 1948 – Dr. Frances L. Willoughby is the first woman doctor in the regular U.S. Navy
October 16, 1916 – Margaret Sanger opens the U.S.’s first birth control clinic in Brooklyn, New York
October 23, 1910 – Blanche Stuart Scott is the first American woman pilot to make a public flight
October 24, 1956 – Reverend Margaret Towner is the first woman ordained a minister in the Presbyterian Church
October 28, 1958 – Mary Roebling is the first woman director of a stock exchange (American Stock Exchange)

(Source: https://nationalwomenshistoryalliance.org/october/)

U.S. Postal Service to Unveil Stamp Honoring Ruth Bader Ginsburg

What: The first-day-of-issue ceremony for a new Forever stamp commemorating the legacy of the late Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg

When: Monday, Oct. 2, 2023, at 6 p.m. EDT

Where: National Portrait Gallery

Eighth and G streets NW

Washington, DC 20001

Details:

The United States Postal Service is proud to announce the dedication ceremony for a new Forever stamp honoring Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, celebrating her groundbreaking contributions to justice, gender equality and the rule of law.

The ceremony will feature:

The official stamp unveiling
A keynote address by Governor Martinez
Remarks by other notable speakers
A presentation on the design and significance of the stamp
An opportunity for interviews and photographs

News of the stamp is being shared with the hashtags #RuthBaderGinsburgStamp and #RBGStamp.

About the Stamp

The Ruth Bader Ginsburg stamp features an oil painting of her in her black judicial robe and iconic white collar. The stamp captures her enduring spirit and tireless dedication to upholding the principles of the Constitution.

You can pre-order your stamps now. More information can be found at:

Rapid Response Committee Report

Kemi Oyebade — Sun, 01 Oct 2023 16:55:00 GMT

By: Susan E. Oser
NFBPWC Rapid Response Committee Chair

A few organizations out there on the local level have a rapid response team covering issues of concern. Have you joined to learn about what they do? If so, how can that be of help to NFBPWC?

Please connect with Sue Oser at rapidresponse@nfbpwc.org if you have any ideas on topics that should be focused on and discussed as we get into the big election cycle.

ERA Team Report

Kemi Oyebade — Sun, 01 Oct 2023 16:20:00 GMT

By: Nancy Werner
NFBPWC Advocacy Team ERA Lead

EQUAL RIGHTS AMENDMENT-E.R.A. IS BIG TIME in the News

Seneca Falls or BUST- PART 2. Yes, Denice Robinson and I, of the PA Affiliate, traveled to the 100^th ERA Convention historical event. In the last E News Magazine, I shared the Day 1 events with you. But the best was yet to come on Day 2. Short recap-Generation Ratify and the Columbia School of ERA organized this event. Also, I forgot to give credit to the Alice Paul Institute for their financial support. The Generation Ratify has over 13,000 students in high schools and college campuses across the country.

We are on Friday, July 22. We went to the Women’s Rights National Park building. The information at the many displays are remarkable. All about the amazing women who have led the way for us during our country’s history. The Park Rangers were knowledgeable about every display. If you ever travel to Seneca Falls, this is a MUST visit.

For Day 2, the Generation Ratify and the Columbia’s School of ERA scheduled an Intergenerational Panel on the ERA. It was held at the Wesleyan Methodist Chapel which was right next door to the Women’s Rights National Park building. The topic was the past, present and future of the ERA. The panel was a gathering of the most extraordinary women who have led the way for ERA and the younger generation who are continuing the challenge. The stage was set, and the church was packed.

Christin Nunes, President National NOW
Carolyn B. Maloney, President NY NOW, former Congresswoman (NY-12) and Board Chairman of the Fund for Women’s Equality
Ellie Smeal, CEO Feminist Majority
Rep. Cori Bush, Co-Chair of Congressional ERA Caucus
Rosie Coulture, Co-Founder Generation Ratify & student at Harvard University
Belan Yeshigeta, Co-Founder Generation Ratify & Student at Columbia
Ting Ting Cheng, Director of the Columbia Law School’s ERA Project
Moderator was Kate Kelly, author of Ordinary Equality

Our moderator, Kate Kelly, had her questions ready for the panelists. Each panelist was prepared to share what they knew, what they were doing and what they saw in that proverbial “ERA crystal ball.” It was exhilarating to hear each woman share her views but the one presenter, Ellie Smeal, had us all on our feet. Working for the ERA for the longest of time, she saw the ERA coming into the U.S. Constitution. Her faith in our virtual society and the http://www.sign4ERA.org project that is sweeping the country was heartwarming. She shared that 50 years ago we only had half of the country behind the ERA but now we know with the use of the Internet, we are reaching far more individuals. Each and every speaker was dynamic and provided insight into our ERA. This panel discussion did run over the hour provided but it was inspiring.

We were able to take a walk to the People’s Park just down the hill from the Wesleyan Methodist Chapel. A beautiful scenic setting along Lake Cayuga to having a picnic and meeting more of the younger attendees. It was supposed to be a working ERA lunch, but we were all busy sharing stories about ourselves and where we were from. Plus sharing the National Federation Business and Professional Women’s Club was Denice and my topic. What caught the many listening ears was our organization’s longevity and how we came to help Alice Paul in the 1930’s. Again, we made many young friends but so many wanted to know what it was like before Roe vs. Wade. They had thoughts about that decision too.

One never realizes how steep a hill is until you need to climb back up. Denice did the hike, found my car and the way to the park. Naturally, we filled the car with riders as we were to head back to the First Presbyterian Church. Saved a lot of steps. But the church was again filled with all the attendees. (Thank you, Denice, for being our uber driver.)

Our final session was the rest of the afternoon. There were discussions in groups around the church. All returning to provide input into the draft Convention declaration. A committee of attendees then took the draft and finalized a statement. An official vote was taken, and it was unanimous. (I shall try to get that statement for you in the next issue.) But what I felt was HOPE and lots of it. I have been having doubts about the passage of the ERA, but these 2 days showed me that this group, Generation Ratify, will definitely take us to the finish line. The motivation, the enthusiasm, and knowing what needs to be done whether on the Internet, with our legislators, or within our states and communities were being shared. Social media was humming during those 2 days as the younger group were busy using their phones with Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and all the other ways to communicate.

The closing ceremony was a member of Generation Ratify who composed a song and music to share with us. Her remarkable musical skills were warmly received. Our organizers, Rosie Coulture, Belan Yeshigeta, and Kate Kelly shared closing remarks as to the hours they spent putting these 2 days together. They were thankful for the many who came and attended. Thanking all of us for our participation and ideas. Lastly, thanking those of us who paid the $267 registration that so many Generation Ratify members could attend.

We loved learning that part of our registration helped to provide transportation for many of the attendees. Some were able to find accommodation in nearby hotels. We even had some in our hotel. Those that did not get rooms brought their sleeping bags and slept on the floor of the lower level of the church. We saw the buses that transported the many attendees from the Maryland, Virginia, and D.C. area. We signed the Equality Bus. We met students from Stanford, Harvard, Howard, Yale, as well as students from their community colleges and state accredited colleges/universities. They were from everywhere.

My favorite moments- Standing at the church podium where Alice Paul delivered her Equal Rights Amendment. Denice and I both got goosebumps.

Engaging with the younger generation and their focus to see the ERA into the Constitution. Plus, I will admit, being interviewed on what it was like 50 years ago, was a reality check. It was humbling but uplifting that I could realize that I did make a difference those 50 years ago.

Hearing from our ERA leaders of their passion and purpose. Ellie Smeal, Rep. Cori Bush-MO-D, and Carolyn Maloney, President of the NY NOW are true champions of the ERA. Meeting them and enjoying their company was a thrill.

Our trip was definitely one for a lifetime. So glad that we had the determination to attend and be part of history. We made many new friends, made memories and learned that many strategies that are being used across the nation. Don’t forget to sign up with the http://www.sign4era.org

Please keep in touch with your Senators using the NFBPWC “One Click.” You know how your Senators voted back In April. We have been promised a revisit and we need to be ready. Keep clicking.

Key to the Photo Collage Above:

Top Row: Photo 1- Nancy and Denice are in the Wesleyan Methodist Chapel waiting for Day 2 to start. Do you know the lady standing next to Nancy is?

Photo 2- The petition to sign for the ERA is online. Please take a moment and SIGN.

Photo 3- People's Park along the beautiful Cayuga Lake was our lunch site. Lots of conversations were being entertained among the many women and men.

Bottom Row: Photo 1- U.S. Rep. Cori Bush, MO-D, leader of the ERA Caucus in Congress, was dynamic in her presentations. She encouraged Generation Ratify members to keep moving forward and not stop.

Photo 2 - The VOTE EQUALITY Bus was with us and we were all invited to sign somewhere. Traveled from the VA area.

Photo 3 -Denice and Nancy made sure that they got a photo at the very podium that Alice Paul shared her Equal Rights Amendment speech.

LGBTQ+ Team Report

Kemi Oyebade — Sun, 01 Oct 2023 16:15:00 GMT

By: Susan Oser
NFBPWC Advocacy Team LGBTQIA+ Lead

Over the past year, we learned about the various communities and the flags that they represent. While there are many more to focus on, there are a lot of websites out there that can educate you on those flags that may have been missed. They include such websites as https://www.hrc.org/resources/lgbtq-pride-flags and https://rcsgd.sa.ucsb.edu/education/flags.

A major focus for this year will be various organizations around the country or even the world that help, support and advocate for the LGBTQ+ community. It’s a great way to learn about these organizations and perhaps invite them to your next meeting or for special speaking engagements. The more we learn about these organizations the more we can network and offer the support they need via an ally or more.

Recently, there has been an uptick in various state capitols and cities proposing as well as passing anti-LGBTQ+ legislation, especially focusing on the transgender community. They are the most vulnerable within the spectrum with transgender youth facing the most hatred and bullying currently. It is vitally important for our organization as well as other allies to listen, learn, and speak up for this community as well as all LGBTQ+ individuals. They need our voices more than effort as we begin to prepare for next year’s presidential election season. Because of the impact these laws have, and the inequality faced, going forward, this section of the LGBTQ+ advocacy column will be devoted to highlighting those bills and bring awareness to just what kind of situation the transgender community especially is facing. There will also be good news as well to share because there always needs to be a silver-lining among the clouds.

Organizations of the Month:

Transgender Law Center, Trans Lifeline, Stand with Trans, The Trans Justice Funding Project, Transcend the Binary

Transgender Law Center – Transgender Law Center (TLC) is the largest national trans-led organization advocating for a world in which all people are free to define themselves and their futures. Grounded in legal expertise and committed to racial justice, TLC employs a variety of community-driven strategies to keep transgender and gender nonconforming people alive, thriving, and fighting for liberation.

Trans Lifeline – Trans Lifeline is a grassroots hotline and microgrants 501(c)(3) non-profit organization offering direct emotional and financial support to trans people in crisis – for the trans community, by the trans community.

Stand with Trans – Stand with Trans is saving lives one person at a time, one day at a time. We help trans youth build resilience, confidence and find hope for a future filled with joy. Founded in 2015 by a passionate mom, the organization continues to grow, serving an international population of families.

The Trans Justice Funding Project – TJFP moves money to trans-led grassroots group and projects with trust and no strings attached. We center trans justice in the US and US territories and honor and amplify the ways our communities organize, create and shift culture, commit their love and care, and fight like hell for trans liberation.

Transcend the Binary -We support trans/gender diverse folks and their families in developing a pathway to achieve their health and wellness goals.

Why highlight?

Source(s):

https://translifeline.org/

https://standwithtrans.org/

https://www.transjusticefundingproject.org/

https://www.transcendthebinary.org/

FYI Positive LGBTQ+ for October:

If you don’t think writing to your state or federal congressperson makes a difference and writes back to you, check out what happened when a letter was written to Rashida Tlaib concerning LGBTQ+ issues:

Dear Neighbor,

Thank you for contacting my office regarding transgender rights. I share your commitment to protecting the rights, dignity, and autonomy of all people, regardless of their gender identity.

I want to assure you that I stand firmly in support of transgender rights and the right to access gender-affirming care. It is deeply troubling to witness attempts to criminalize and strip away the fundamental rights of transgender individuals, particularly when it comes to their healthcare decisions.

The principles of patient autonomy and individual healthcare choices are cornerstones values of our democracy, which is why I have backed several significant pieces of legislation to support our transgender residents:

H.R.697 - Justice for All Act of 2023: This bill prohibits discrimination based on sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or race-related characteristics in schools, businesses, federally funded programs, and other settings. It also provides statutory authority for and expands the types of civil actions that may be brought for violations. You can read more on the bill here: https://tlaib.house.gov/posts/tlaib-re-introduces-justice-for-all-act-restoring-original-intent-expanding-protections-of-civil-rights-laws

H.R.15 - Equality Act: This bill prohibits discrimination based on sex, sexual orientation, or gender identity with respect to businesses, employment, housing, federally funded programs, and other settings. The bill definessex to include sex stereotypes, pregnancy, childbirth, sexual orientation, gender identity, and sex characteristics.

H.R.4422 - Global Respect Act:This bill imposes visa-blocking sanctions on foreign persons responsible for or complicit in violating the human rights of individuals due to actual or perceived sexual orientation, gender identity, or sex characteristics. The President must report and periodically update a list of foreign persons responsible for such human rights violations and apply sanctions accordingly.

H.Res.269:Recognizing that it is the duty of the Federal Government to develop and implement aTransgenderBill of Rights to protect and codify the rights oftransgenderand nonbinary people under the law and ensure their access to medical care, shelter, safety, and economic security.

Trans rights are human rights. Rest assured, I will continue to work tirelessly to protect life-saving healthcare for transgender youth and adults alike.

Thank you again for reaching out to me on this crucial matter. Please do not hesitate to contact me in the future with any other concerns you may have. My door is always open to you.

Sincerely,

Rashida Tlaib

Member of Congress

The following is an overview of or anti-LGBTQ+ legislation in the news:

Anti-Trans Legislative Risk Assessment Map: New Adult Map

This map shows the 2-year risk for anti-trans laws. For the first time, included in this release is a new adult map showing the risk for trans adults in the United States. https://www.erininthemorning.com/p/anti-trans-legislative-risk-assessment?r=k9h1j&utm_source=substack&utm_medium=email

If you have any news or leads on anything related to LGBTQ+ news, issues, and organizations, please contact Sue Oser at soser@nfbpwc.org

BPW International – Happy 93rd Anniversary

Kemi Oyebade — Mon, 04 Sep 2023 16:05:00 GMT

Happy BPW International Anniversary 2023!

BPW International was founded 93 years ago today in Geneva. BPW members can be found in 111 countries worldwide. We are a professional network of incredible women, full of expertise and rich in achievements. Congratulations to us all!

#BPWDay #bpwdirectory

#bpwinternational #professionalnetworking

(Source: https://www.facebook.com/bpw.international)

Mentoring Report

Kemi Oyebade — Mon, 04 Sep 2023 16:00:00 GMT

Mentoring Report

By: Valentina Solarin, NFBPWC’s Mentoring Chair, mentoring@nfbpwc.org

Mentoring Program Application

We're excited to announce another session of the Mentoring Program! The NFBPWC Mentoring Program matches members with each other and facilitates a mentor/mentee relationship.

Open to all members at any point in their career, mentor/mentee pairs meet virtually to discuss various topics ranging from skills, strategy, equity, and more.

We have a plethora of expertise among our members. Become a mentor!

There are equal numbers of members who are yearning to find someone to learn from and gain an understanding of something. What do you want to learn?

Vocalize an area of interest in an application so the Mentoring Program Team can find a mentor to assist you.

1. THE FIRST STEP is to submit an application HERE to the Mentoring Committee and explain your goals with the program.

2. The Mentoring Committee with then partner you and coach you through launching your mentoring relationship!

STEP 1: COMPLETE THE APPLICATION

Tell us about your mentoring expertise/skills in an area OR tell us what you would like guidance in.

Application: Apply by clicking on the registration button on this page.

You must be logged into the membership database to apply.

In the log in field, enter your email and password, then click the LOGIN button.

If you do not remember your password, click the FORGOT PASSWORD link next to the LOGIN button. Enter your email address to receive a reset password link via email.

STEP 2: APPLICATIONS ARE REVIEWED AND MATCH ATTEMPTS MADE

New matches will be asked to have an initial meeting to confirm:

there is a good fit,
goals can be established for a successful outcome, and
a time-frame for the mentoring process can be achieved.

STEP 3: COMPLETE THE MENTORING AGREEMENT

Mentor/Mentee teams are required to document their goals and agreed-to time-frame.

STEP 4: CHECKPOINT

The Mentoring Program Chair will contact the participants at random points to check on their progress and ensure that teams are working.

STEP 5: EVALUATIONS

Mentor/mentee teams submit evaluations of the process. This is invaluable feedback for the program as we move forward to determine future processes.

International Relations Chair Report

Kemi Oyebade — Sun, 03 Sep 2023 16:45:00 GMT

International Relations Chair Report By: Sandra Thompson, NFBPWC’s International Chair, international@nfbpwc.org

This is a reminder about the UK event that is coming up on September 6.

BPW United Kingdom has a series of talks on Wednesdays. The following is one that they have that is coming up in September that might be of interest to you. This might be an opportunity for us to help our BPW sisters in the Ukraine.

United Kingdom BPW Speaker Events: ‘Wednesday Talk’
Speaker: Victoria Filatova and Jo Kinsey, BPW UK President Talk Title: ‘Van for Chernihiv’ Ukraine Project

Date: Wednesday 6th September 2023 Time: 7pm London Time or 11 a.m. Pacific, Noon Mountain, 1 p.m. Central and 2 p.m. Eastern.

To register for the event please copy and paste the link below into your browser: Van for Chernihiv Ukraine Project

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/van-for-chernihiv-ukraine-project-tickets-674390368747?aff=oddtdtcreator

Tickets: Join us to hear more about this project that has been granted funding from BPW International to buy a vehicle to help distribute humanitarian aid in Chernihiv, Ukraine.

BPW UK President Jo Kinsey has worked with Amelie LeClerc from BPW France and together they have secured funding totaling €25,000 or $27,815. Next, they aim to raise further funds to fill this with useful items needed to help people, with the help of BPW Chernihiv member Victoria Filatova and Yulia Zayka. Victoria will be joining this webinar to explain how the funds will be used, and what day to day life is like for Ukrainian women. You can hear in the media what life can be like, but UK is honored to welcome Victoria who will share her first-hand knowledge. This webinar is open to all, and friends of BPW UK are welcome.

Regional News

St. Kitts held readiness workshops on how to be prepared for the workplace.

Concordia held a panel discussion International Women’s Day promoting technology for women and girls.

Canada held their Annual General Meeting in August.

International Dates to remember: Latin America Regional Conference will be held September 6 to 10, 2023 in Santiago, Chile.

BPW International Congress which will be held in Mar del Plata, Argentina November 17 to 21, 2024.

September Highlights in US Women’s History

Kemi Oyebade — Sun, 03 Sep 2023 16:35:00 GMT

September Highlights in US Women's History

Celebrate Anniversary of the Signing of the Constitution – Constitution Day September 17th

Celebrating Women & Democracy Kit

September Highlights in US Women’s History

September 12, 1910 – Alice Stebbins Wells, a former social worker, becomes the first woman police officer with arrest powers in the U.S. (Los Angeles, CA)
September 14, 1964 – Helen Keller receives the Presidential Medal of Freedom along with 4 other women: Dr. Lena Edwards, Lynn Fontainne, Dr. Helen Taussig, and Leontyne Price
September 14, 1975 – Elizabeth Ann Seton is canonized and becomes the first American-born saint, founded the first U.S. Order of the Sisters of Charity of St. Joseph
September 20, 1973 – Billie Jean King defeats Bobby “No-Broad-Can-Beat-Me” Riggs in the battle of the sexes tennis match
September 25, 1981 – Sandra Day O’Connor is sworn in as the first woman U.S. Supreme Court Justice
September 26, 1971 – Rep. Shirley Chisholm (D-New York) announces she will enter the Democratic presidential primaries
September 26, 1973 – Capt. Lorraine Potter, an American Baptist minister, becomes the first woman U.S. Air Force chaplain
September 29, 1988 – Stacy Allison becomes first American woman to reach the summit of Mt. Everest

(Source: https://nationalwomenshistoryalliance.org/september/)

Engage with NFBPWC on Social Media

Kemi Oyebade — Sun, 03 Sep 2023 16:30:23 GMT

Engage with NFBPWC on Social Media

Organization Page: https://www.facebook.com/NatlFedBPWC/

Group Page: https://www.facebook.com/NatlFedBPWC/

Organization Page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/nfbpwc

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2l_ciIxLyvbu1dbBOsV9Tg