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 

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. 

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. 

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.” 

 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 

By: Nancy Werner
NFBPWC Public Relations Chair (2024-2026) 

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/

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.

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.

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.

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.

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! 

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:

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. 

19th Amendment (Began 1848 - Passed 1920)	28th 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!