ERA Team Report

By: Nancy Werner, NFBPWC Advocacy Team ERA Lead 

EQUAL RIGHTS AMENDMENT-E.R.A. IS BIG TIME in the News

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. 

Seneca Falls or BUST- Yes, Denice Robinson and I, of the PA Affiliate, traveled to the 100^th ERA Convention historical event, leaving on July 20 from Harrisburg, PA. We took the scenic Route 15 that parallels the Susquehanna River into southern New York. We had booked lodging in Geneva, NY, only a short distance to the south of Seneca Falls. (The town was quite full of guests.)  

The Generation Ratify and the Columbia Law School’s ERA were our hosts. Generation Ratify has over 13,000 students in high schools and on college campuses across the country. We learned that they had been planning this event for a very long time.  On July 21-22, we participated in the two-day event.  Sitting in the First Presbyterian Church of Seneca Falls was quite an inspirational moment as Alice Paul was remembered. Only 21 years old at the time, the Woman’s Party and she were so hopeful that they thought her amendment would only take 10 years to travel through Congress. 

The program on Friday was jammed back. We were introduced to the team that put so much work into the planning. Kathy Kelly, Esq., author of Ordinary Equality, and Rosie Couture, Co-Founder of Generation Ratify and student at Harvard College, shared the front of the church with a host of dynamic guests. We met Belan Yeshigeta, Co-Founder of Generation Ratify and student at Columbia, Ting Ting Cheng, Director of the Columbia Law’s School ERA Project, and from Nevada, U.S. State Representative Susie Lee. Each spoke from the podium where Alice Paul once stood. The church was full of many Generation Ratify students. Maybe about 150 plus and the rest were the activists who still want to see the Equal Rights Amendment passed. (That would be Denice and myself.) Each speaker gave an individual view on what is happening and ideas to help the ERA move forward.

Another impressive moment was the breakout groups hosted by the Generation Ratify members. One was called, “Organizing for Equality: Direct Action 101” and the other was named, “The Best Way to Protect Abortion & LGBTQIA rights? Federal and State levels.”   The presentations were power points with discussions and input from the participants. What was learned was how well the Generation Ratify students are informed. Six weeks prior to the event they held weekly zooms to update their members on the ERA. They knew the information and came prepared to discuss. They took copious notes as they were all expected to return with information to their high school or college Generation Ratify groups. Let’s just say, they came to make a statement. Alice would have been so proud.

During lunch, Denice and I felt like movie stars. What?? Guess I was startled that these young students wanted to interview us. Questions - What was it like 50 years ago? What did you do during the early 1970’s? Were you on a college campus? Did you have marches? I could only share my activism on my college campus. Yes, we had marches and rallies. We were united and then I graduated as an educator in 1971. But I soon learned of an organization called the National Federation of Business and Professional Women’s Clubs, Inc. that was supporting the ERA amendment. I even showed my red, white, and blue pin that stated, “ERA Is for Everyone.” I was 22 years old. Those pins were sold to our many NFBPWC members and worn proudly. Looking back to those years, I couldn’t believe 50 years had passed and we were now the senior mentors. But we did spread the word about NFBPWC.  

We returned from lunch to three breakout groups. Again, they were led by the Generation Ratify leaders. Gender Justice, Voting Rights and Organizing for State/Local ERA action, Intergenerational and Cross Movement Coalition Building and Faith Organizing Workshop. Amazing topics and the strategies that were shared in the discussions were well prepared. Everyone was welcomed into the talks.

Our Friday keynote speakers were Senator Pat Spearman, President of the Pro Tempore of the Nevada Senate, and U.S. Representative Cori Bush, Founder of the Congressional Caucus for the Equal Rights Amendment. She represents the state of Missouri. Both were dynamic in their presentations and shared their plans for the ERA to make the U.S. Constitution. When Cori shared that this would be the last generation to stand up and pass the ERA, the church went wild. Those young people were up on their feet and giving it their all. Must say, these two women have “spunk” and the charisma to make it happen.

In the back of the First Presbyterian Church is a group photo of the attendees at the July 21, 1923, gathering. So, to commemorate this date, the entire group went out in front of the church to do a retake for the 100-year ERA Anniversary Photo. Our group was a little bit larger, but they had the traffic stopped, boom crane in place and Denice and I sure hope we can find ourselves in the photo. 

Now, there were 2 more events that evening. A March was held down one street. There were banners and lots of activity. The New York NOW, Rochester NOW and Women’s March of Seneca Falls led the march and everyone took part.

Finally, at 8:00 p.m. Cori Bush and Generation Ratify had a birthday party. It was to celebrate the birth of the modern youth-led movement for the ERA with a birthday cake, party games and feminist fun! But it was also the birthday of Cori Bush!  Thought that was special.

Now that was Day 1. I was exhausted as the heat of the church was not pleasant. I kept wondering how hot it was 100 years ago when the women wore the long dresses and buttoned blouse. We did receive green fans when we came in the early morning, but they didn’t do the work of a real fan.  Denice and I arrived in our white jackets and pants with green tops. We looked the part of the ERA leaders. But those jackets were NOT needed. The younger people were not affected by the summer heat. They were still going strong and enjoying every minute. Generation Ratify did quite a lot for many students who were helped with financial aid to fly to Seneca Falls. Some received hotel rooms, but the majority were sleeping on the church floor in their sleeping bags. It was engaging to see so much energy all around us. I will leave Day 2 for next month. I need to get my wind as Day 2 was just as empowering as Day 1. 

Repeat Information- Feminist Majority has put out the sign your signature to the ERA. Everything you need to know is right there. Https://www.sign4Era.org  As Eleanor Smeal of the Feminist Majority has shared that our society is now a virtual society. We will be able to reach more individuals and provide the evidence that Americans support the ERA. 

Please pass it to all your family members, friends, neighbors, and colleagues. Your name will be logged and any new information on the ERA will come your way via your email. This is the communication that we have been waiting for. If you wish to applaud the creators, the 4 Rhode Scholars of Hunter College are to be congratulated. 

Keep going to our NFBPWC One Click System and use it. We appreciated every “yes” vote for the ERA back in late April. If your Senator (s) voted in favor, please tell them. But maybe this wasn’t the case and you saw a “no” from your Senator(s). Tell them what you are thinking. Let them know that you support the ERA. It looks like the Legislative Process is our way to travel to see the ERA become our 28^th Amendment to the Constitution.  Don’t forget the https://www.sign4era.org/

LGBTQ+ Team Report

By: Susan Oser, NFBPWC Advocacy Team LGBTQIA+ Lead

If you have an idea of an organization that you would like to highlight or would like to help and become more involved as an LGBTQ+ advocate, please contact Sue Oser at soser@nfbpwc.org or angelbpw1719@gmail.com. 

What do I wear? Great question and here are some suggestions:

Thursday night is casual for our Welcoming Reception in the evening.

Friday is our Board of Directors meeting; most attendees will be wearing business attire.

Saturday, we will wear white during the day to recognize the women suffragists who paved the path for women in the USA before us. This is the day of our General Assembly, so a white suit, white jacket, or white blouse would be appropriate. Most attendees will be wearing business attire during the day.

Saturday night is our Gala event. Take this opportunity to shine and bring something dressy to wear as we celebrate. A cocktail dress, a fancy scarf, a lovely pant suit, and other “glamorous” items will be appropriate. Have fun with this night. It is an opportunity to share yourself, your culture, and your fashionista side!

Sunday morning will be casual as we say goodbye. Some attendees will be participating in off-site tours and some will be departing. We will have one final Board of Directors meeting that will close out this conference as we start to look toward the next 2-year term.

Rules for candidates and campaigns for the 2022 Executive Committee General Assembly elections:

• The NFBPWC email list will not be shared and cannot be used by any candidate to promote their campaign or candidacy.
• No campaign materials are allowed to be distributed in the General Assembly room, onsite.
• Campaign materials may not be larger than standard letter size paper (8.5 x 11).
• Campaign materials are expected to be appropriate, ethical, and keep within the professional standards that align with the mission of NFBPWC and its members. The Nominations Chair will enforce these standards and determine any violations of these rules.
• Endorsements are allowed by members.
• The Board or Directors and/or Executive Committee may not directly or indirectly endorse one specific candidate over another.
• Campaigns cannot begin until July 6, 2022.
• Social media campaign rules:
• • It is not appropriate to request that the NFBPWC Public Relations Chair,  or PR Committee members, create campaign posts. The Public Relations Chair will review and approve all social media campaign materials prior to posting them on any NFBPWC social media platforms.
  • Candidates may post on their own social media platforms, any tagging of NFBPWC in posts will be reviewed and approved by the NFBPWC PR Chair.
  • You may not use the NFBPWC seal anywhere in your campaign marketing materials (photos, etc.), as NFBPWC does not endorse one candidate over another, and we do not want to create the appearance of such an endorsement.
• Please note that the Executive Committee and the Nominations Chair reserve the right to make changes to these campaign rules and regulations at any time as we see fit.

The theme for the 2022 General Assembly is Together, Again.

As NFBPWC members we are all part of an intricate puzzle that empowers us to develop the professional, business and leadership potential of women at all levels. At this year’s conference, we will be celebrating our connections that make us a stronger organization as we unite and advocate for women.

Valuable expertise

Because our NFBPWC leaders - all over the country - keep us focused and drive us forward as an organization, we are proud to have several as our special guest speakers who will highlight their commitment and experience during the 2022 General Assembly.

On Friday afternoon, attendees will have their choice of 6 breakout session workshops that will follow our theme with focus on Leadership in our organization. Attendees, both in-person and remote, will learn about utilizing NFBPWC resources and connections locally, nationally, and internationally to improve both our organization and our personal lives.

On Saturday afternoon, we will highlight our Advocacy arm of the organization with 6 different breakout session workshops about our efforts to unite and advocate for women.

To view the full program: CLICK HERE

To register for 2022 General Assembly: CLICK HERE

Enclosed you will find the forms that need to be completed by all members wishing to run for elective office of the National Federation of Business and Professional Women's Clubs.

• 2022 NFBPWC Nominations Forms.pdf 
• 2022 NFBPWC Nominations Forms.docx

The term of office is two years.

The offices that are available are President, First Vice-President Membership, Second Vice-President Advocacy, Treasurer, Secretary and Young BPW (if the bylaw amendment passes).

We will also be electing a Nominations Chair.This is an elected chair position that serves on the Board of Directors.

Members of a State Federation or Affiliate Chapter/Club shall be eligible for election.

Candidates must have served the National Federation in an elected or appointed capacity on a national, state or affiliated chapter/club level for one year prior to the election.

No more than two candidates from the same State Federation or Affiliate Chapter/Club shall be nominated.

Signed forms must be returned by: July 4, 2022.

Nominations can be made from the floor if a full slate is not obtained by the above deadline.

THE FORMS SHOULD BE EMAILED TO THE NOMINATIONS CHAIR AT NOMINATIONS@NFBPWC.ORG.

Any questions, please contactnominations@nfbpwc.org.

Our Host Hotel

Embassy Suites by Hilton Sacramento Riverfront Promenade

100 Capitol Mall Sacramento, California 95814 USA, 

Book a Room              More About Hotel

RESERVATIONS MUST BE MADE BY JULY 14, 2022

Register for the 2022 General Assembly

Why Stay Here

• Our group rate is only $219 plus tax.
  
• All sessions will take place at the host hotel. You will be in close proximity to programming and your fellow attendees, which helps you maximize your time at the conference.
• No money down, cancellations by August 3, 2022.
  
• The hotel overlooks the Sacramento River, next to the iconic Tower Bridge.
  
• You'll be within a 10-minute walk of the Old Sacramento Waterfront District and events at the Golden 1 Center.
• All Suites include a full cooked-to-order breakfast and two-hour beverage reception nightly.
• The hotel makes sharing a room easy with only a charge of $25 per night for each additional guest in suite (if more than 2 adults per suite).
• Valet Parking available at $35 per night (based on availability). Self-Parking is located in the city garage adjacent to the hotel.
• Hotel to provide complimentary in-room wireless internet to all overnight guests during event dates.

Shared from American Airlines Flight Service magazine:

When the government withdrew U.S. troops from Afghanistan last year, it led to thousands of Afghan refugees fleeing Taliban rule and relocating to other nations, including the U.S. For LGA-based flight attendant Emily VanVleck, who was furloughed in 2020 and then took an EVLOA to return to college, it presented an opportunity to help some of the displaced Afghan women.
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Majoring in international studies, with a double minor in public policy and human rights, she had just wrapped up an internship with the National Federation of Business and Professional Women – New York City (NFBPWC/NYC). To celebrate, she and fellow interns had their first in-person meeting with their chapter president in Central Park. A discussion about the plight of the refugees ensued, and the Afghan Women Project was born.

"We realized there are no resources meant to help business and professional migrant women who arrive in the U.S., and we sought to fill that void," she said.

Flight attendant Emily VanVleck (in black shirt) and members of the Afghan Women Project collect donations of winter clothes and head coverings.

After getting to know some of the women, Emily found their stories inspirational. She said there are many professionals among them (doctors, lawyers, teachers, etc.) and many who were in college when the Taliban took over. Part of the project's mission is to provide them with the tools to pursue their dreams in America. The project created a guidebook on shortening the acclimation process, offering a mentoring program, using its advocacy platform to solve resettlement issues, and finding resources to ease the transition. As a founding member, Emily has played a central role.

"I have worked to develop the project and create relationships with various agencies working with the displaced Afghans," she said. "I conducted interviews with women … to gather information for our guidebook. I also ran point for the winter clothing drive, heading meetings with the various collaborating organizations."

She said the winter clothing drive was an enormous success. With assistance from the Interfaith Center of New York and other community organizations, they gathered over 40 boxes of new and gently used clothing for the families and raised over $10,000.

The group also initiated a program called Zoom Pals to help the Afghan women practice their English skills and make friends. Emily keeps in touch with some of them via text messaging, and she was elated when one young woman texted that she was her first friend in America.

"I have worked tirelessly on this project since August, spending every moment of my free time moving it forward," said Emily, who graduates in May. "Hearing that I was someone's first friend in America gave me inexplicable joy and assured me that this project is working and already affecting people." 

National Federation of Business and Professional Women’s Clubs (NFBPWC) Sponsors the ERA Coalition Rally for Equality on January 27^th, 2022 – 12 PM ET

WASHINGTON, DC – The National Federation of Business and Professional Women’s Clubs is sponsoring the ERA Coalition Rally for Equality on January 27^th, 2022 to take place with the following timeline:

• 12 Noon ET - Rally at the White House (also livestreamed)
• 1:30 pm ET - Delegation of volunteers marches to Department of Justice
• 2:30 pm ET - Delivery of petition signatures to the Department of Justice

January 27, 2022 is the 2-year anniversary of Democratic attorneys general for Illinois, Nevada and Virginia filing arguments as part of an appeal to a 2020 lawsuit to formally recognize the Equal Rights Amendment and extending the deadline for ratification.

ERA advocates believe that despite some court rulings affirming protections against gender-based discrimination in recent decades, the amendment is still necessary to address legal loopholes around discrimination in work as well as domestic and sexual violence.

Linda Coberly is Chair of the ERA Coalition’s Legal Task Force, a group of constitutional scholars working toward ratification, noted that additional language in the ERA text states that the amendment takes effect two years after final ratification — in this case, January 27, 2022, which connotates when the Virginia legislature finalized its approval of the amendment in 2020.

NFBPWC is participating in the rally and has stepped forward to sponsor and support the ERA Coalition collective voices on important legislation and the actions required to make the Equal Rights Amendment constitutional law.

Quote Megan Shellman-Rickard, NFBPWC National President

“We stand by the ERA Coalition and its important work to give women in the United States true equality without exception.”

As part of our core values which also align with the goals of the Coalition, NFBPWC has made available to their membership and the public a campaign to petition ratification. The "Take Action" Online Tool helps advocates navigate the petitioning and proper communication to tell your Senators to “Step Up for the ERA!” 

In solidarity with our sisters, and the ERA Coalition, #RiseUp4ERA

Link to Livestream: https://fb.me/e/Zmhd6vJW

About the NFBPWC

The National Federation of Business and Professional Women’s Clubs (NFBPWC) was founded in 1919. In 1930, Dr. Lena Madesin Phillips, a co-founder of the NFBPWC, founded the International Federation of Business and Professional Women.

NFBPWC-USA is a 103-year-old organization. We are a national network of Business and Professional Women with the objectives of developing professional, business and leadership potential for all women. We advocate for the equal participation of women and men in power and decision-making roles.

As a member of BPW/International, NFBPWC-USA has consultative status with the United Nations and works closely with many NGOs (non-governmental organizations) throughout the world. Through the work of the New York City Chapter of NFBPWC, we have consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) and participatory status with the Council of Europe.

Former NFBPWC members are pioneers of the women’s equality movement, and include four first ladies of the United States, a US supreme court justice, authors, and esteemed business leaders.

Colin Powell School Fellows Assist Displaced Afghan Women and Girls to Settle in the US

LINK: Vol 42 Newsletter

Colin Powell School seniors Djenabou Bah and Emily VanVleck have developed a project to assist refugee women and girls from Afghanistan in meeting their basic needs and adapting to life in the US. The Afghan Women Project is collecting clothing and other needed resources, providing mentorship and guidance on integrating into American Life, and advocating for support for the refugees.

Bah and VanVleck started the project as summer interns at the National Federation of Business and Professional Women’s Clubs, as part of their participation in the Colin Powell School’s Koch Fellowship in Public Service.

Although their internships have come to an end, Bah and VanVleck have continued as student members of the NFBPWC and have been instrumental in developing their Afghan Women Project. They hope to assist in welcoming Afghan women who have had to leave everything behind and empower them to find opportunity in the United States.

Find out more or donate to the project and see the call for clothing donations and the call for interviews.