The Galvanize Program
Friends,
In March 2009, President Obama created the White House Council on Women and Girls, which I am so proud to have Chaired during my time at the White House. We started with one simple question for each Administration policy and initiative: how would this improve the lives of women and girls?
Working alongside partners like you, we made progress on a broad set of issues that impact women and girls, from economic empowerment and workplace flexibility, to affordable child care, paid leave, and paid sick days. We highlighted the unique challenges facing women and girls of color and developed strategies to level the playing field. We tackled gender stereotypes, implicit bias, the unequal impacts of criminal justice reform, and launched the It’s On Us campaign to end sexual assault on college campuses. Most importantly, we met each day with women and girls whose lives were affected by these issues and policies. With those women in mind, and in partnership with advocates from every corner of the country, we fought for all women.
Last year, the Council hosted the first-ever United State of Women Summit, and the energy and enthusiasm in that room was like nothing I’ve ever seen. Throughout the program, we heard from women (and allies!) about how to break down gender equity barriers and empower ourselves as advocates on critical issues ranging from health, to violence against women, economic security, entrepreneurship, human rights, and education. The Summit brought together people from diverse backgrounds and identities– grassroots organizers and CEOs, scientists and activists, local elected officials and national leaders — with one common goal in mind: equity for all women.
Most rewarding of all, we heard from participants that they wanted to continue turning their passion into positive action beyond the Summit. And that’s why I’m writing to you all today.
Today The United State of Women is launching the Galvanize Program to build on the momentum of the Summit and bring the conversation to communities across the country. Galvanize will host mini-United State of Women Summits in six cities over the next year, bringing people together to discuss the challenges that women face and empower participants to become the next generation of local and national leaders. These summits will provide women with the tools and training they need to organize, to advocate for policy solutions, to run for office or to become an entrepreneur.
We know that when women work together, everyone benefits. That’s why I’m thrilled to be the Co-Chair, with my good friend Tina Tchen, of the first Galvanize Program in my hometown of Chicago this July.
Let’s pledge to work together all across America, to support each other, to defend our progress, and to make lasting change towards gender equality. I believe The Galvanize Program is a great place to start, so let’s get together, get organized, and create positive change for tomorrow.
