AAUW Flexing Muscle for Women & Girls

What happens when you get a large group of women together? Many would assume the answer is deafening chatter. But the chatter was anything but idle at the 2017 American Association of University Women, ‘AAUW,’ National Convention in Washington D.C. the week of June 14, 2017. There was only the kinetic resonance of strong, smart, bold women determined to be agents of change.

Nearly 1000 delegates from every corner of our nation converged on the Renaissance Hotel Ballroom united in a mission to advance equity for women and girls. The room instantly fell silent as the meeting commenced, each member intently focused and absorbed by the vital message of AAUW leaders.

This was my first conference and I was overwhelmed, excited, and amazed by the level of energy and commitment for the cause. Everyone I met had a story such as a second-generation AAUW member whose mother had been active in AAUW for 50 years and still chairs public policy at the age of 94. Another shared her relief and gratitude that she attended school because of Title IX and went on tobecome an infectious disease physician.

The first item on the convention agenda was to get our lobby marching orders and “speak truth to power.” Undeterred by sweltering heat and humidity, together we stormed Capitol Hill to meet with legislators on National Lobby Day. Our voices were heard and our presence felt. It was thrilling to be a part of democracy in action and personally bring AAUW priorities to the attention of our elected officials.

Each day I gained new insight into the value and impact of AAUW as extraordinary speakers shared how issues such as Title IX, fair pay, and education made profound differences in their lives.

Community

Courtesy photos (Above) A group of California delegates at the AAUW’s National Convention in Washington, D.C. (Right) Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor at the AAUW National Conference.