Dear Colleagues,
In the United States, voters head to the polls today, November 2, to cast ballots for state and local offices. Every election is important. This one is no exception.
Thank you for providing key resources and information for voters to exercise their rights and make their voices heard at every level of government. For example, the Women’s Foundation of Colorado has launched a campaign encouraging community members to “vote with women in mind.” Their civic engagement resources provide nonpartisan, objective information on where voters can register to vote, where to cast their ballot, review research on ballot issues and candidates, learn about the legislative process, and engage in local advocacy.
“Policy advocacy is about people, not politics. Every election is an opportunity to change the systems that influence gender, racial, and economic equity. Though 2020 feels like yesterday, we can’t afford to take a break on an off-year election. Today in Colorado, voters have the opportunity to shape our state’s fiscal system, which greatly impacts women’s economic security, and the distribution of resources to working families.”
Lauren Y. casteel, president adn ceo of the women’s foundation of colorado
Women have faced extraordinary adversity over the past two years. The Covid-19 pandemic has upended the lives and careers of millions of women across the globe, it has also underscored the importance of electing women to political office, according to Gender on the Ballot, a nonpartisan project to examine and contextualize gender dynamics in politics.
It is up to all of us to ensure our voices are represented in the political systems that shape our professional and personal lives. If you’re in the US, make a plan to vote by going to Black Girls Vote to check if your state has elections, find your polling location, or to check your polling hours.
Thank you for all you do to act as community amplifiers, sharing information and resources when they’re needed most.
In solidarity,
Elizabeth
Elizabeth Barajas-Román
Women’s Funding Network
President & CEO