We believe we can learn from grassroots organizations and leaders everywhere which is why we formed a series of exciting dialogues spanning the United States around the issues coming up in the elections. We thank the amazing womxn, men and non-binary folx who join us and shared their unique relationship to running or organizing to make the US more inclusive, intersectional, and the voice of ALL the people affected by policy.
– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –
I. Representation Matters:
2020 Candidates Working to Shift Power and Shake Things Up
An unprecedented number of young women, people of color and LGBT people are seeking office with the goal of making sure that the lived experiences of marginalized people are part of shaping the policies that impact our day to day lives. This is key to ensuring that the very real challenges facing our communities are addressed and no one is left behind.
Rep. Park Cannon (D-GA)
Bryce Bennett, Candidate for Montana Secretary of State
Jessica Gonzales-Rojas, Candidate for NY General Assembly
Meghan Kallman, Candidate for RI State House
Rosemary Ketchum, Wheeling, WV City Council
David Ortiz, Candidate for CO State House
Jennifer Rourke, Candidate for RI State Senate
II. She Should Smile More:
Electability, Likeability and the Barriers to Electing Womxn
We have all heard it before – the sexist commentary on women who run for public office. Their outfits and hair are criticized or they are too shy or too loud. They have too many ideas or not enough. The Womxn Project (TWP) is dedicated to shifting conversations and power, so we can make real and lasting change. We are so lucky to work with elected officials around the country who are also willing to name the barriers and nonsense women face and do something about it!
Women have always been leaders in our families, our communities and have fueled movements for justice throughout time and yet when we seek elected office sexism our ability to lead is constantly questions. Join this esteemed panel to talk about the obstacles women face and how we can push back!
Moderator:
Senator Gayle Goldin (D-RI)
Panel:
Sharon Brackett, Baltimore City Democratic Central Committee
Rep. Monica Duran (D-CO)
Nirva LaFortune, Providence, RI City Council member
Rep. Dafna Michaelson-Jenet (D-CO)
III. Mama Knows Best:
Obstacles & Opportunities for Moms Running for Office
The fact is that having children can make it that much harder to run for office, but it also gives us that push to make the world a better place for our families. Research has also shown that when moms are in office, fair wages and workplace policies get more attention and the needs of families are brought to the table. Join The Womxn Project and an impressive panel of moms who are making a difference in politics and learn more about the obstacles and opportunities that come with juggling the demands of family and policy work.
Moderator:
Sen. Bridget Valverde (D-RI)
Panel:
Rep. Ruth Buffalo, (D-ND)
Aniece Germain, Cranston, RI City Council
Sec. Nellie Gorbea, Rhode Island Secretary of State
Rep. Ariana Kelly (D-MD)
Former Rep. Kelda Helen Roys (D-WI)
Janie Segui, candidate for Pawtucket, RI City Council
Julie Zebrak, JoeMamas2020/national fundraiser for campaigns
IV. Honoring the Legacy of RBG:
What You Can Do Where You Are
Ruth Bader Ginsburg was a champion of reproductive health, rights and justice. She also inspired millions of women of girls (and our male and gender nonconforming accomplices) to dream big and work to make a change!
As people debate what should be done around her seat on the Court, we are taking a moment to talk about what it looks like to honor her legacy.These folks are making a difference in their communities. Learn more about how you can help to make her memory a revolution and push for positive change.
Moderated by:
Vimala Phongsavanh (Congressional Progressive Caucus Center)
Panelists:
Marcela Betancur (RI Latino Policy Institute)
Julie Burkhart (Trust Women)
Morgan Harper (Activist and Attorney)
Karen Middleton (Cobalt)