I cannot believe that we are already in October! Election Day is only a month away. This year’s elections are critical at the local, state and national levels. There is so much at stake and we must make sure that our voices are heard and our feminist agenda put forward .
We could not fulfill our mission to endorse the candidacies of women and men who support our positions and promote a feminist agenda without the hard work and the dedication of the Elections & Appointments Committee and its Candidate Assessment Teams (CATs). Under the leadership of its co-chairs, Elsa Granados and Carol Keator, E&A has considered 21 electoral races and five measures and propositions. Our endorsements can be found on our website. Our endorsed candidates need your help so join me and the Board in volunteering any way you can!
SBWPC has continued its effort to encourage and support feminist candidates to office. The Candidate Development Committee, co-chaired by Beth Schneider and Beverly Herbert, has organized several training sessions so far this year. In February, Candidate Development presented “Run Like A Woman” with sessions on deciding to run, making a plan, practical considerations, developing and delivering a message, and contacting voters. This was followed by “Present Yourself: Beyond the Elevator Speech and On To Podium Power!” with Dr. Lois Phillips and a Canvassing Training program led by Mary Rose.
The Legislation and Advocacy Committee, co-chaired by Leslie Brtek and Pam Tambo, has worked hard to identify state bills pertinent to our feminist agenda. L&A has considered 16 bills and sent 20 letters to the Legislature and/or the Governor. In addition, L&A has followed up with our elected endorsed candidates to let us know how they are doing in office. You can find their report cards on our website.
The Membership Committee, co-chaired by EJ Borah and Sharon Hoshida, has strived to offer a variety of events. I enjoyed the opportunity to meet old and new members at the Friendraisers at Jill’s Place. We also partnered with Santa Barbara Women Lawyer to screen the acclaimed documentary “Penny: A Documentary Film by Elizabeth Sher” which was followed by a fascinating panel discussion on 21st Century Women in the Law and in the Arts. Look out for the upcoming screening of “Anita: Speaking Truth to Power”, a powerful documentary on Anita Hill.
The Media Committee, co-chaired by Anna Everett and myself, has worked hard to revitalize the website and our Facebook page (thank you Luz Reyes-Martin). I hope that you find these platforms helpful to keep you informed.
The Fund Development Committee, chaired by Beth Schneider, organized a wonderful tribute to Lois Capps in July. Fund Development is also bringing you Cosmopolitics again on November 17 featuring best-selling author, historian, and leading national expert on women and American politics, Nancy Cohen. Save the date!
As you can see, we have been very busy this year and there is more to come! I am looking forward to meeting as many of you as possible at our upcoming event. My door is always open so do not hesitate to call me or email me. I would love to hear from you!
Catherine Swysen