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

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.

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.organd 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:

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 -

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

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 -

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/index.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

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.

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/trump-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

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.

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.

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

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

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

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.

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

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

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nfbpwc_usa/

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.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nita_Barrow

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