By: Larisa B. Miller, NFBPWC International Relations Chair (2024-2026), international@nfbpwc.org

Standing Strong Together: A Call to Action for BPW Women

As the International Liaison for the NFBPWC, I feel a deep sense of urgency as we move toward one of the most pivotal election days in modern history. The outcomes of this election will reverberate across the globe, shaping policies, rights, and opportunities for women

everywhere. It is a time of great uncertainty, but also one of immense possibility—an opportunity for us to make our collective voices heard and to influence the direction of progress.

Today, more than ever, we find ourselves at a crossroads, where the rights we have fought so tirelessly to secure face new challenges and threats. It is in this moment that we must come together, shoulder to shoulder, in unwavering solidarity to ensure that our voices are heard loud and clear across the globe.

The concerning trend of regressing women's rights should be a clarion call for all of us. Our hard-won rights— secured through the efforts, sacrifices, and relentless advocacy of women who came before us—are not guaranteed, and voting to preserve our rights is our responsibility. What happens in one corner of the world – positively or negatively, impacts us all, as the erosion of rights in any region is a reminder that our work is never complete. We must recognize that what affects one of us affects all of us, regardless of our ethnicity, religious affiliation, education level or socioeconomic standing. This is our moment to come together, to reassert our commitment to the values of equality, opportunity, and justice.

Yet, while we stand united in our advocacy, we must also recognize the power within our own ranks. Sometimes, we must be the architects of our own opportunities. Whether it’s breaking glass ceilings in corporate spaces, founding and building new businesses, or pushing for change in our communities, we have the ability—and indeed, the obligation—to pave the way for each other.

This is the time for us to create pathways for growth, promotion, and opportunity not just for ourselves but for each other. Let us focus on mentoring one another, sharing knowledge, skills, and experiences to empower the next generation of BPW leaders. It is through collaboration, rather than competition, that we will achieve the greatest outcomes. We must strive to build relationships that bridge gaps across borders, connecting our chapters in meaningful ways to share resources, expertise, and support.

Through our combined efforts, we can build a global network that not only addresses the challenges we face today but also creates a foundation of strength and unity for the future. Let’s work collectively to ensure that our BPW chapters are spaces where innovation thrives, where women support women, and where our collective voice becomes a powerful force for positive change.

Our strength lies in our unity, and our power lies in our unified voice. Together, we can continue the work of those who came before us, ensuring that the future is more secure, stable and economically accessible for generations of women to come. Now is the time to stand strong, to speak out, and to support one another in every possible way. Because when we stand together, there is no limit to what we can achieve. And remember, your vote is OUR voice.

WHAT ARE YOU DOING IN NOVEMBER?

BPW International Congress, the General Assembly of BPW International, takes place  every 3 years, thus starting and ending the Triennium for the BPW International Executive.

This event is open to every member of the National Federation of Business and Professional Women’s Clubs, Inc.

Over the course of the 5-day program, there are business meetings, workshops and the opportunity to interact and connect with members from around the world. It is an experience of a lifetime and we encourage all members to consider attending this event.

Link for more information:

https://stkittscongress.bpw-international.org/