...empowering women since 1922 |
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Fall/Winter Newsletter
December 2020
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AAUW of Michigan President |
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The words that I focused on in our last newsletter were powerful, purposeful, positive, and productive in describing AAUW of Michigan. As we are still in the midst of the pandemic, these three words come to mind for me now: growth, giving, and gratitude.
Since last March, I have tried to focus on my own growth and the growth of our organization. I certainly have learned some new skills. Who would have imagined that we would all be using Zoom! My technological skills have certainly improved during this time, although I’m not there yet. I really have never posted much on Facebook, but now I post on the AAUW of Michigan Facebook page several times of week as an important way to highlight what we do and what we care about. I have also grown in how I spend my time. I have slowed down and take time to exercise, play the piano, read books, enjoy nature, and connect with my siblings, extended family, and friends that I hadn’t communicated with in quite a while. The break in my normal routine has freed up time to assess plans, values, and the kind of legacy that I would like to leave. I have grown in my knowledge that life is short and that what matters is finding meaning and doing what really matters. That has caused me to grow in my dedication to the mission of AAUW, which is more important now than ever.
Giving what I can to others has also become more important to me. Unlike many, I am spending way less money on things like eating out, traveling, gas, etc., so have more money to give to others. The economy remains nearly 10 million jobs shy of where it was before COVID-19 changed everything. The pandemic’s disproportionate economic toll on women, most notably women of color, will have economic ramifications for years, compounding the inequities of the existing gender wage gap. Most women than men have lost jobs and the challenges of caretaking have taken a significant toll on the work life of many women. Key unemployment benefits, emergency paid leave and sick days, and eviction protection programs are all set to expire on December 31st. Many Americans are hungry and in poverty. I am fortunate in that I can give and I have chosen to support AAUW and the Greatest Needs Fund and many local organizations in our area such as the Salvation Army, my church’s coat closet and community meal program, and Light at the Inn Shelter, an organization providing shelter, meals, and winter clothing to the homeless in Dickinson County. I also would encourage you to make a real impact and leave an enduring legacy that will benefit AAUW long into the future by becoming a member of the Legacy Circle. For information, please visit https://www.aauw.org/resources/member/support-aauw/leave-a-legacy/
Gratitude is the quality of being thankful and the readiness to show appreciation for and to return kindness. I am grateful for so much, including my family, friends, food, shelter, and economic security. I also am so very grateful to the AAUW of Michigan Board for their dedication to our organization and leaning on our mission. Thank you also to you, the members of AAUW of Michigan, for your willingness to function as a branch in new ways.
Have a peaceful Holiday Season filled with growth, giving, and gratitude.
Jan Van Gasse
906-563-8791 (home)
906-396-2747 (cell)
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Holiday Happy Hour with AAUW of Michigan
Wednesday, December 16, 5:30pm ET
Whether your virtual schedule is full of holiday fun or your festive schedule is a little light this year, you will want to join the AAUW of Michigan board and members from around the state for an entertaining evening!
We will get to know one another through great conversation and fun games. Bring your own food and a beverage of your choice. Not sure what you want to drink? Well, we have some drinks to inspire you! See the recipes below. They are simple with ingredients you might have around already or can easily grab next time you load up on groceries
We will start around 5:30pm Eastern, but will allow time for everyone to logon and work out any issues people might have before we get into the activities around 6pm. We hope to see you all Wednesday, December 16th for a shindig filled with sisterhood and spirits!
The Kamala
We honor the famously wine loving Vice President Elect with a simple, but delicious cocktail. You can make it a non-alcoholic mocktail by substituting the wine with soda water.
1/4c Cranberry Juice
1c Sparkling White Wine
Optional: Sugar the rim of your glass by skimming with lemon or lime and then dipping into sugar before adding liquids.
The Gretch
This drink takes a little time but it comes together well and is a tried and true Midwestern favorite.
1 gallon Apple Cider
2-3 Cinnamon Sticks
5 Whole Cloves
4-5 Orange Slices
Optional: 1.5oz Bourbon or Spiced Rum per mug
Stove Top: Add cider, cinnamon, and cloves to a stock pot and bring to a low boil. Reduce to a simmer and add orange slices. Cover and let simmer for at least 20 minutes.
Slow Cooker: Add all ingredients, except orange slices, and cook on low for at least two hours. Add orange slices 20 minutes before serving.
The Dana
A strong, classic, straightforward whiskey drink.
3oz Whiskey
1oz Simple Syrup
Garnish with Orange Slice and/or Cherry
Optional: Add soda water to top off
The Jocelyn
A seemingly simple drink with a nice kick.
3oz Spiced Rum
6oz Vernors
Garnish with Lemon and/or Lime Slices
Optional: Squeeze of Lemon and/or Lime Juice
Deb Kennedy and Amy Shamroe
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Diversity and Inclusion Director |
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A Season’s Journey to Overcome Bias
This month ushers in goodwill, wherein, we allow charity and peace to encompass our thoughts and actions. Where we believe that diversity is much more than a world filled with individuals from different backgrounds, beliefs, and affiliations.
By embodying this consciousness, we do not need a season to be accepting of other cultures. If we are asked to share with a stranger, “yes” becomes less of a thought and more of an action. So, let us continue forward with “yes” even after this season of giving has passed, even when we see that the person neither looks nor acts like us.
Do not allow our biases to pass judgment just because of perceived differences such as hair, skin, and/or ways of speaking and acting are different. Do not allow negative thoughts to form which take us to depths of bias. Make room for peace, you have already opened the door to inclusion, don’t close it on equity now, give the greatest gift, yourself!
This season take a journey to overcome bias, to be more accepting of others and ultimately ourselves. This journey will take time to remove years and experiences which have programmed us with an unconscious bias towards those who do not fit our ideologies. Nonetheless, stay the course, enjoy the revelation, that comes with the acknowledgement of contributions from all humankind.
For our next book club discussion, we’ll be reading the book, Biased: Uncovering the Hidden Prejudice That Shapes What We See, Think, and Do, by Dr. Jennifer Eberhardt. You might want to get a head start on reading the book. Stay tuned for a special email to announce details on the upcoming February discussion date.
You might also be interested in these 15 anti-racist Michigan books to get you through the holidays and the quarantine.
N'Kenge Gonzalez
(248)935-3655
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Will Enterprises Be Our Financial Salvation?
With changing tax law, decreased membership, and, especially with all the challenges we’ve experienced in 2020, which may continue, branches are having a difficult time raising funds for scholarships, salary negotiation training and even branch operation funds. A new way to raise funds may be what’s necessary moving forward.
Social enterprises are popular among non-profits as a way to bring in more consistent revenue to support the organization’s activities. According to the Social Enterprise Alliance, “For traditional non-profits, social enterprise can be a powerful complement to other activities when it advances the social mission and the financial sustainability of the organization.”
Basically, a social enterprise, in terms of AAUW branches, can be any type of small business that is run by the branch—or even a third party—where a portion of the proceeds go back into the business for the purpose of sustaining it and the majority of the proceeds go back into the branch for its operations and mission-based activities.
Let’s face it, membership dues are not enough to sustain operations and donations are thinner than they used to be. The more you raise dues, the more you risk a higher attrition rate among membership. A social enterprise could save our mission-based efforts at the branch level.
If you look at the accompanying graphic, our social enterprise goal and model would be in the purple section, to the left of the dividing line at the bottom, where revenue is being reinvested, not only into the business, but also to support the mission of the branch, all within state and federal charitable and tax law.
An example of a highly successful social enterprise is Goodwill Stores. Goodwill Industries is an organization that “helps people overcome challenges to building skills, find jobs and grow their careers.” Goodwill Stores were established to help fund that work, and, while it started small, there are now 156 stores throughout the US and Canada. Goodwill earns nearly $6 Billion in revenue annually. With that retail-generated revenue, they are able to serve 37 million people annually and place over 300,000 of those in jobs.
Some of you have been doing mini enterprises for years with annual book sales, cheese ball sales and other revenue-generating events. What I’m referring to is an ongoing, consistent business. Below are several examples of possible social enterprises to consider, although this is not at all comprehensive.
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Tutoring services – the current requirement for membership—college education—means that our members have the smarts to provide tutoring for young, teen and college-aged youths and adults. Providing tutoring services at a reasonable hourly rate would help bring in revenue (assuming tutors were volunteering their time and all the funding went back into the branch) for branch missions. In this time of online meetings, even offering technology tutoring to the aged community so they can participate in Zoom sessions with their family or AAUW, etc., could be profitable.
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Direct sales – in this situation, your branch members would each join a direct-sales organization, such as Tupperware, Pampered Chef, Thirty-One, Mary Kay, etc., and all proceeds from internal and external sales would go to support the branch. Since most parties are online these days and orders are drop-shipped directly to the purchaser, it would require little effort on the part of your members. Although, it is heavy on social media marketing.
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Hall rental – this enterprise would require a purchase of or a gift of a banquet hall or meeting space to the branch. Then, either through its volunteers or through paid staff, the hall would be rented out for events (showers, weddings, etc.) and the revenue would go to maintain the building and support the branch activities. This would also serve as a meeting and events location for the branch.
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Storefront – if your branch would be gifted a storefront, this could be an ongoing book sale, with other items mixed in (donations from your branch members, friends and family members). You may even consider selling specialized consignment items (collectibles, etc.). Storefronts may be available at a discounted rate with so many businesses failing right now.
These are just some of the many social enterprise opportunities out there. If your branch is interested in starting a social enterprise, please contact me and I will help provide resources and support for your efforts. There are several helpful resources out there, including grants.
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Sheila Blair
(734) 674-224
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Paid Life Membership: Save Money Today |
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For anyone with fewer than 30 years of membership, becoming a Paid Life Member will provide a savings—a significant savings for some.
Paid Life Members pay 20 years of national dues and then they don’t have to pay national dues again. If you don’t take advantage of this, you will pay 50 years of dues until you become an honorary life member, after which you don’t have to pay national dues again. This is a potential savings of 20 years of dues. Taking advantage of this now will give you the 2020 dues as opposed to the anticipated increased dues coming over the next half century.
To do this, please complete the form (access it through the button below) and mail it in along with your check, according to the instructions on the form. If you have already paid the 2020-2021 dues, and would like to take advantage of this offer, you would pay $1,121. If you have not paid this year’s dues, then you would pay $1,180.
Deadline for this is Feb. 28, 2021. Please contact Sheila Blair with any questions at [email protected].
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Before the year is out!
It’s my job to remind you how important it is to contribute to AAUW’s Greatest Needs Fund (https://ww2.aauw.org/donate-gift-new/). Our national leaders want to thank you for the generosity in the past to the point almost all the endowment funds are complete so what is needed now is to contribute to what is now known as Greatest Needs Fund. When you donate to the Greatest Needs Fund (https://ww2.aauw.org/donate-gift-new/) you are telling AAUW to use your money where it’s needed most at the time of your contribution. It may go to the Fellowships and Grants, it may go to programs such as SMART START, it may go to NCCWSL. It allows the leaders at AAUW to utilize the money where it’s needed most. AND…Your contribution will be doubled between now and December 31.
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It’s really wonderful to know that the contributions over the years allowed us to fund more than 200 awards and $3.5 million in funding for fellows and grantees in the 2020–21 award year. I have volunteered for the Career and Development Grants application review for the last four years and it certainly has reinforced in me how important those opportunities are. In addition, when I served as AAUW of Michigan President I quickly realized how important the opportunity to attend NCCWSL is for college women. I’ve transported young women home from their two-to-three-day event and they are sky-high with excitement and enthusiasm for their experience. I’ve facilitated several SMART START workshops and learned so much about how the skills learned in the training can be utilized throughout a woman’s work and home life. Negotiating a salary might seem more important than negotiating for a new computer, but when you are faced with purchasing a new home or the mortgage on that new home these skills can come in quite handy and think how happy your family will be…not to mention how happy a woman will be when she realizes negotiating a salary at 25 can mean she will receive a more generous social security check when she is 65! These opportunities to learn new skills are created when AAUW members like you make contributions to the Greatest Needs Fund (https://ww2.aauw.org/donate-gift-new/).
I wish you all a safe and healthy holiday season and a Happy New Year!
Kathy Shaw
269-965-2979
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Introduction to Your Dynamic Leaders!
The AAUWMI Board is very actively working on your behalf and your branch to do business as “usual”. The new “usual” is now virtual and helps to break down the lack of communication. It is very exciting to be on the Board with such energetic and talented women. They are many busy committees virtually meeting and brainstorming ideas. Here are some of those ideas in the works!
President Jan Van Gasse works day and night on ideas, contacts to other states and our branches, Zoom meetings multiple times in a day and keeps the Board moving in a timely manner. The infusion of her energy flows over which spreads to all a more productive mood. We have made such great progress in the last few months. She is totally a fantastic and knowledgeable team leader!
Programs VPs Deb Kennedy and Amy Shamroe are keeping us on track for the year 2020-2021. They are scheduling the Holiday Happy Hour, Book Reads, Implicit Bias Training, Work Smart Training, and a Membership Forum for 2020-2021. They will have us all coming back for more!
Membership VPs Danielle Beard and Leah Monger are busy drafting an Email Marketing Plan using social media marketing to attract new national and state members. They are putting together a “Branch Survival Kit” to help us all survive this time of a pandemic. Did I say these women are very talented with technology, grant writing and statistics? Yes, they are!
Sheila Blair, Finance VP, already had a fund raiser of selling masks and ornaments. We saw profits which will be available in the form of mini grants to branches. (Details will follow soon in an e-news to members) Sheila works magic with the numbers for financial reports and budgets. She is appreciated for her all-around talents of brainstorming and thinking of others.
AAUW Funds Director, Kathy Shaw, leads by example! Her past presidency of AAUWMI brings many skills to the table. Her committee is developing a Fundraiser Idea Exchange to help branches and their members continue to thrive.
Bylaws Director, Elizabeth Haynes. has talent to make bylaws and policies look fun and meaningful. She has already updated our policies for 2020-2021! Great job!
N’Kenge Gonzalez, Diversity Director, is a very busy woman involved in many organizations. She is an avid reader giving us the scoop on great reads for Book Clubs. N’Kenge always has current information to share and discuss.
Public Policy Director Karen Zycznski has jumped in with Lobby Corps and “Get Out the Vote” message! She has great ideas to share with the team.
Mary Pollock, Government Relations Coordinator, is on the ball with the latest and maybe not so greatest in politics and new laws which will affect us positively or negatively. She hosts a FB page for Lobby Corps. Mary is our woman in the know! She also presents Zoom meetings for branches. She needs to be commended for Get Out the Vote messages!
Kristine Schroeder is our State Services Director. She has techie knowledge which illuminates our State Website and Newsletter. Check it out (https://www.aauwmi.org/). She also is the person that talks to most of the members of AAUW of Michigan and is appreciated for her kindness and patience. You will be impressed with her.
Kay Calley-Martin, Secretary
P.S. Note from Jan Van Gasse – Kay was very kind in writing this article. Let me introduce her:
Kay Calley-Martin, Secretary, has so much to keep track of (minutes, motions, action items, etc.) and does so skillfully. She allows me to edit what she has written and is always so cheerful about it. She loves teaching and her enthusiasm on the board is contagious!
Kay Calley-Martin
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During the last three months members across the state have been involved in the election process to some degree. My article this month revolves around those endeavors.
AAUWMI members making a difference!
AAUW-Wyandotte-Downriver GOTV (Get Out the Vote). Three Branch members RSVP’d a space in the shade at the Allen Park farmers’ market to register voters on behalf of AAUW last month. US Rep. Debbie Dingell stopped by to say hello! They also collected several pages of signatures on behalf of Fair and Equal Michigan’s drive to put LGBTQ rights before the legislature.
Pictured L to R are Grace Seitz, Public Policy Chair Diana Mente, Debbie Dingell and Sue Stoll.
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The Iron Mountain-Kingsford Branch of AAUW held two successful Candidates’ Forums in early October via Zoom. Despite the challenges of moving to a videoconference platform using Zoom versus the traditional in-person format, both forums had candidates from various races and community members in attendance.
The first forum held the evening of October 1 included candidates running for County Commissioner seats. The second forum was held the evening of October 6. Participants included were running for U.S. Senate, from the 1st District the Representative for Congress and from the 108th State House District.
Both Candidates’ Forums can be viewed in their entirety at the Iron Mountain-Kingsford Branch AAUW website at http://ironmountainkingsford-mi.aauw.net or on Facebook by visiting the AAUW Iron Mountain-Kingsford Branch Facebook page.
The Northville-Novi Branch had several members volunteering on election day working with the absentee ballots, working as a runner for the city clerk or outside at the polls.
Left Picture: Patty Domin worked on election day as a runner.
Right Picture: Oakland County Commission Candidate Gwen Markham. She won a second term.
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Government Relations Coordinator |
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Post-Election Roundup and Lame Duck
Highlights of the November 3 election:
Turnout
- The pandemic changed campaigning and voting.
- A record 5.54 million Michiganders voted on November
3, a 71 percent turnout rate.
- A record 3.26 million absentee ballots were cast (59.3%) in the general election and 2.3 million individuals voted in person.
Presidential race
- Joe Biden won Michigan’s 16 electoral college votes by 2.78 points and won nationwide.
- U.S. Sen. Kamala Harris, the bi-racial daughter of immigrants, was elected the first female Vice President.
- Big race and gender gaps in voter preferences nationally
- 57 % of whites, (55 % of white women) voted for Trump.
- 72 % of racial/ethnic minorities who make up 35 % of the electorate voted for Biden.
- Biden led by a 33-point margin among first-time voters; a 26-point margin among voters ages 18 to 29. Trump had a slight edge on seniors (50%-48%).
U.S. Senate
- Michigan’s U.S. Sen. Gary Peters won re-election by 1.68 points.
- Control of the U.S. Senate will be decided in two run-off elections in Georgia on January 5.
U.S. House
- Democrats lost seats but held the U.S. House narrowly.
- Women set a new record for representation in the U.S. House – 117 (101 currently).
- Women of color set a new record for representation in the U.S. House – 48 (44 currently).
- Michigan’s U.S. House delegation remains 7 Ds and 7 Rs, gains one Republican female.
Michigan
- Michigan House remains 58 R -52 D.
- Michigan Supreme Court flipped to 4 Ds and 3 Rs.
- Education boards split - Ds won five out of eight state education seats, retaining majorities on all four state education boards.
- Two statewide Michigan ballot issues passed handily.
- None of the many legal challenges from Trump or Republicans have gained court approval so far.
- Michigan’s presidential electors chosen at state party convention in August will meet December 14.
Lame Duck in Michigan
- December 1 – December 17/18
- State COVID-19 Relief ($100 million?) for families and small businesses
- Criminal justice reform package of bills likely to move
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26-week unemployment insurance sunset of 12-31 looms
- Pandemic response – mask mandate; hospital overflow staffing, COVID-19 testing, personal protection equipment supply; mitigate spread in nursing facilities, veterans' home and prisons, prepare for vaccine distribution
- Likely to finalize reform of the Sex Offender Registration Act – HB 5679
- Oversight hearings on Nov. 3 election processes continue
- Caution: more legislators report COVID-19 infections or are quarantining while 10 members of House refuse to wear masks on House floor; lame duck could be suspended or shortened
Mary Pollock
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Battle Creek Centennial Statue Dedication |
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“Hope” is Home in Battle Creek
The bronze statue, “What’s Next World” is now in place on the campus of Kellogg Community College in Battle Creek. The AAUW Battle Creek Branch unveiled the statue and presented it to Dr. Adiren Bennings, President of KCC on a sunny breezy November 9, 2020.
The statue, a gift in honor of AAUW Battle Creek’s Centennial, was commissioned by the Legacy Committee and then the hard work of raising money to pay the artist and the foundry to make a clay model into a beautiful bronze statue began. The artist, Paula Blincoe, graduated from a local high school and started her college career at KCC. Other work she’s done is a bas relief in the lobby of W. K. Kellogg Foundation in downtown Battle Creek. Blincoe has also been an exhibiting artist at “Art Prize” in Grand Rapids.
In an artist’s statement, sculptor Blincoe said the statue was intentionally designed to embody the AAUW mission of advancing equity for women and girls. “I was thinking about the hope and strength the community of members have given to so many young women to think outside the box,” Blincoe said. “The group has given so many the means and opportunity to explore all the possibilities outside of traditions.” She went on to say, “All paths are possible and need to have thought and education to accomplish the journey.”
On a suggestion from a branch member, the committee named the statue “Hope.” “We all thought the name appropriate for the year 2020,” said committee co-chair Kay Calley-Martin. Sculptural details include “AAUW” embossed on Hope’s dress, a star on the globe indicating the location of Battle Creek, and books held in Hope’s right hand, including books on subjects of rocketry and climate science.
Hope can be seen every day overlooking KCC’s campus contemplating her future in the new North End Gateway park on the corner of North and Roosevelt avenues in Battle Creek. Please visit Hope and send us the photos you take with her!
If any of the AAUW branches are looking at milestone celebrations, Kay and Kathy would be happy to share the centennial planning undertaken for Battle Creek’s 100th anniversary.
Kay Calley-Martin
Kathy Shaw
Legacy Committee co-chairs
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Those participating in the unveiling ceremony of “Hope” included from left, Brenda Hunt President and CEO, Battle Creek Community Foundation; Sandy Ranger; Judith Douglas President AAUW Battle Creek; Dr. Adrien Bennings President Kellogg Community College; Kay Calley-Martin; Teresa Durham Executive Director KCC Foundation; Pat Fosdick; and Kathy Shaw. All but Dr. Bennings are members of AAUW Battle Creek Branch. |
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AAUW Birmingham Celebrates
100 Years
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AAUW Birmingham’s Scholarship Drive – 100th Birthday Celebration
AAUW Birmingham celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2020. We were planning on having a gala luncheon in May at a country club with appropriate entertainment and all the trimmings, but, as you know, those plans were put on hold. In January, in my president’s bulletin article, I put out a call to any member who had expertise in fundraising to join with our board to help generate future funds. Much to my surprise, I received an email from a member who said she had experience in fundraising, and since she had been a member for some time (since 1997) and had only participated through a book club, she would be glad to meet with us. Her involvement and leadership were crucial in developing and executing this campaign.
After it became apparent that we were not going to have an in-person event, a committee was formed. Both the branch board and our foundation board met to hear the committee’s plans. Both boards gave resounding support. A direct campaign using the mail and a virtual event was initiated. In August letters were sent to all members asking for donations to generate scholarship funds. A return envelope with a response card was included. On the response card were these choices: included is my contribution of ?; I am able to “stand in the gap” for a member who is unable to give; I am offering an additional gift to support our mission. It also gave a space for requesting anonymity.
The early response was gratifying. We then planned a virtual “kick-off” in early September. Fifty or so members were Zoomed into that event. We explained the campaign and showed videos from scholarship awardees and NCCWSL attendees. They were very impressive. There was also a drawing for a hostess basket from the donors so far. It was announced that five donors would win a Bundt Cake from Nothing Bundt Cakes in Rochester as part of our final celebration to be held the first week in October.
We sent email reminders, and the committee called nonrespondents in the last week or so before the final event.
The final ZOOM event featured a PowerPoint presentation of our history. It included photos and narration. There was a birthday cake with sizzlers and the drawing. We also had an encore presentation from Isabel Akelstad, whom many of you may know, telling of her experiences with the branch and as a member of AAUWMI Student Advisory Council.
Thank you letters with a bookmark entitled “One Hundred Years of Giving from AAUW Birmingham” and receipts were sent to all the donors. One-hundred-eighty-two checks were received (80% of our members). These were added to funds from those people who donated their previously paid luncheon tickets for the cancelled event and, $1,065 which was left over from a First Responder Project that was carried out by the branch with several police and fire departments in the area. The grand total was $28,380.
I want to thank all of our members – but most importantly those who stepped up and said I can help.
Sally Doty
President, Birmingham Branch
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AAUW Grosse Pointe 100th Anniversary Parade
Celebrating the Ratification of the 19th Amendment
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Front row, L to R: Mary Ellen Burke, Joanne Mualem, Marie DeLuca;
Back row, L to R: Ellen Chapin, Carolyn Barth, Judy Florian and Joanne Johnson
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October 11, 2020 was a perfect fall day in Michigan…sunny skies, comfortable outdoor temperature, and a brisk wind. It was a perfect day for a parade. Women, men and children gathered at the Grosse Pointe High School parking lot waiting for AAUW GP’s 100th Anniversary Parade, celebrating the ratification of the 19th Amendment, to begin. There was an atmosphere of celebration… saying hello to friends, taking pictures, and admiring the white outfits. There were women form AAUW Grosse Pointe, AAUW Rochester, AAUW Wyandotte-Downriver, AAUW Dearborn, Soroptimist International Grosse Pointe, League of Women Voters Grosse Pointe, NAACP Grosse Pointe, and a participant from Ann Arbor. The Girls Robotics Team (Botmasterz) from Pierce Middle School was our “Parade Marshall”.
At 1pm, the Botmasterz Team led the parade holding the 100th Anniversary Parade banner and suffrage flags. They were followed by women, men and children for a total of ninety participants. The vision of a parade with women wearing white and carrying signs, like our sisters of 100 year ago, finally became a reality.
The parade ended at the Grosse Pointe War Memorial where there were posters about the Suffrage movement, featuring many of the Suffragists’ pictures and short summaries of their involvement with the movement. It was very colorful and informative. This note from an attendee summarizes the event. “Just a note to let you know how much my husband Rich, along with my Soroptimist buddies, enjoyed the parade. Everything was pitch perfect – the length of the walk, the summary of the movement, the weather, and, most important to me, the very thoughtful setting up of some chairs for those of us who cannot stand for any length of time. Thank you for all you put into it, and please, let your committee know how much everyone’s efforts were appreciated! ”
The parade was in honor of the Suffragists who fought so hard to give women the right to vote and it was also a reminder not to take the right to vote for granted. We were happy that children were part of the parade. Walking in the parade, listening to the “March of the Women” by Ethel Smyth, and looking at all the signs was such a good learning experience for them. It truly felt that we were touching the future. Color was an important part of the experience and provided instant recognition. The banner had the colors yellow, white and purple which represent the colors of the Suffrage movement. The first question the girls from the Botmasterz team asked was why there were eighteen yellow stars and the eighteen purple stars. Those stars represented the 36 states needed to ratify the 19th Amendment in 1920.
How appropriate that during our 100th year of celebration of the right to vote, the country elected a woman as the Vice President of the United States. When she walked on the stage, there was instant recognition of the Suffrage movement because she chose to wear white. During her speech she honored the women who paved the way. Her success represents the best of the United States. A daughter of immigrants, through education and hard work, can become the Vice President of the United States. The glass ceiling definitely has cracks in it and it will shatter completely when we elect a woman as President.
Where do we stand 100 years after the ratification of the 19th Amendment? We just elected a woman to the second highest office in our nation but we still don’t have gender equity. The national woman’s pay gap is at 82%, and much lower for black women, Hispanic women, and Native American women. Women are an important part of our work force and are a powerful electorate but many are held back by norms, perceptions, and prejudices.
It is no longer a novelty to see women in law schools, medical school, graduate school, and many doctoral programs. We know that education narrows the pay gap but there is still a pay gap across all occupations and professions. We can take a lesson from our sisters of 100 years ago and push for the passage of the Paycheck Fairness Act and the Equal Rights Amendment.
The Equal Rights Amendment, originally written by Alice Paul in 1923, is in limbo. The E.R.A. states “Women shall have equal rights in the United States and every place subject to its jurisdiction. Equality of rights under the law shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or any State on account of sex.” It passed in 1972 and Virginia finally ratified it in January 2020 but missed the deadline for ratification which was in 1982. It is difficult to comprehend that it took 48 years to ratify this crucial amendment.
We can amplify our voices by calling and writing to our elected officials. We can make our voices heard and raise awareness by writing letters to the editor in our local papers.
Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg said it best “Fight for the things that you care about, but do it in a way that will lead others to join you.”
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Marie DeLuca
Committee Chair
AAUW GP 100th Anniversary Parade
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Michigan Equal Pay Day Coalition |
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MICHIGAN EQUAL PAY DAY COALITION
EQUAL PAY ACTION DAY
On Wednesday, September 16th, the Michigan Equal Pay Day Coalition held their virtual “Equal Pay Action Day” that addressed the gender pay gap and the impact this has on women and their families.
This event was attended by 131 participants, who were inspired by a number of outstanding speakers, including Lilly Ledbetter, a national pay activist, who has fought for years to close the gender pay gap. She encouraged us to talk about the issue, to share our stories, and to keep fighting. Attorney General Dana Nessel strongly supported passage of the ERA and Governor Gretchen Whitmer stated that, “We need to ensure that women are treated with the same dignity as their male counterparts.”
Other speakers included Representative Padma Kuppa, who delivered a call to action and called on women to run for office. Dr. Stephanie Nawyn, Co-Director for Academic Programs at the Center for Gender in Global Context at MSU, communicated the history of the gender wage gap. A leader for passage of the ERA in Virginia, Eileen Davis, spoke passionately about how critical it is that the ERA be passed. AAUW Detroit President, Janet Watkins, educated attendees about the wage gap and the impact it has on women of color.
Women in Michigan make only seventy-nine cents on the dollar as compared to men. Women of color make even less. The consequences of this discrepancy impact women and their families throughout their lives. Pay equity is a simple matter of fairness and justice. We must continue to make our voices heard and our votes count.
By Mickey Edell
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Grosse Pointe Feminists Fundraiser |
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AAUW Grosse Pointe is having a fundraiser of handmade feminists’ figures. Sandy Stanley will be making the figures until May 2021. If you want one in time for Christmas, please indicate that when placing your order and Sandy will provide the delivery date.
Choices of figures are: Susan B. Anthony, Sojourner Truth, Gloria Steinem, Eleanor Roosevelt, and Ruth Bader Ginsburg. Other figures may also be available upon request. Each figure costs $40. Email Sandy Stanley at [email protected] to place your order and establish the timeline and terms for delivery.
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AAUW of Michigan
Board Meeting Highlights
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AAUW of Michigan Policies (2020-2022) require the president to report action taken by the AAUWMI board through written board highlights. These are to be sent to affiliate presidents or administrative officers who are in turn to report to their boards. I have chosen to send the highlights to all AAUWMI members. Since the last newsletter distributed on September 14th, the AAUWMI Board met virtually on September 19, October 3, November 21, and November 30.
The following motions were approved:
- Confirm the appointments to the Nominating, Resolutions, and Awards Committees
- Approve the standing committees and the addition of the Communications Committee
- Join the Michigan Coalition to End Child Marriage
- Approve the State Services Manager and Government Relations Coordinator job descriptions and evaluations
- Accept the Financial Review for 2019-2020 and place it on file
- Accept the 2020-2021 First Quarter Financial Report and place it on file
- Approve the updated 2020-2022 AAUW of Michigan Policies
- Offer a refund of $189.53 or credit for a future NCCWSL trip to those who purchased tickets from Brown Paper Tickets for bus transportation to NCCWSL 2020 (AAUW Dearborn, AAUW Farmington, AAUW Jackson, and Schoolcraft College). This amount would be paid back if Brown Paper Tickets refunds the money in the future.
- Use the profit from the sale of masks and ornaments to offer matching mini grants to branches for $100 and not to exceed $1200 total.
- Approve the 2020-2022 Strategic Plan
- Approve the Statement on Gatherings
- Approve the Statement on Racism
- Plan a Midwest Regional Conference for state elected and appointed officers
The branch surveys, completed by 23 branches, were instrumental in formulating our strategic plan.
Please remember that all of our Board meetings are open and any member may attend. Written notice of meetings is to be sent to all members of AAUWMI at least 30 days prior to the meeting. Please contact Jan Van Gasse via email at [email protected] or via phone at 906-563-8791 (home) or 906-396-2747 (cell) if you would like to attend a Board meeting.
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Due to COVID-19, AAUW does not sanction in-person meetings at this time nor for the foreseeable future. AAUW’s guidance is in adherence with the Emergency Orders issued by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) and is in the best interests of all our members. The AAUW of Michigan Board encourages all branches to protect themselves and their members by complying with the guidelines. Let’s remain safe today and enjoy gatherings in the future!
Approved by the AAUWMI Board on November 21, 2020
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We condemn racism and its associated discrimination against Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC). It is the root cause of today’s injustices. Prejudice and inequality – including economic inequity – cannot be passively ignored. There can be no justice or equality when BIPOC are seen as less deserving of basic human and civil rights. AAUW has been a leading voice in American in the fight for equity for women and girls, and we especially recognize the additional challenges facing BIPOC women and girls. AAUW of Michigan is committed to fighting for justice, long-term and lasting change, and we stand in solidarity against racism. We will work collaboratively to give access for all people to the opportunities and resources needed for optimal health and safety. As Dr. Martin Luther King stated, “Now is the time to lift our national policy from the quicksand of racial injustice to the solid rock of human dignity.”
Approved by the AAUWMI Board on November 30, 2020
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Wednesday, December 16, 5:30 p.m. ET – Holiday Happy Hour
Thursday, December 17, 7:00 p.m. ET – Lobby Corps Zoom Meeting – contact Mary Pollock, Government Relations Coordinator, at [email protected] for details
Wednesday, January 27, 6:30-8:00 p.m. ET – Branch Presidents’ Quarterly Zoom Meeting
February (date to be determined) – Book Club Discussion of Biased: Uncovering the Hidden Prejudice That Shapes What We See, Think, and Do by Dr. Jennifer Eberhardt.
Monday, February 15 – Deadline for submitting proposed bylaws amendments
Board nominees (in writing) due to the Chair of the Nominating Committee
Deadline for Submission of Resolutions
Saturday, February 20, 9:00 a.m.-12:00 noon ET – AAUW of Michigan Board Meeting
Wednesday, February 24 – Call to Annual Meeting goes out
Monday, March 8 – Spring Newsletter goes out
Report the names of all qualified nominees to branches
Announce recommended resolutions to branches
Wednesday, March 24 – Send notice of April 24 Annual Meeting to all members
Send written notice of amendments to the bylaws requiring member vote
Receive names of Annual Meeting delegates
Saturday, April 17 – AAUW of Michigan Annual Report goes out
Thursday, April 22, 5:30-8:00 p.m. ET – AAUW of Michigan Board Meeting
Saturday, April 24, 10:00-11:30 a.m. ET – Electronic Annual Meeting
Adopt Public Policy Priorities
Monday, June 7 – Summer Newsletter goes out
Tuesday, June 15 – Branch Annual Reports Due
Wednesday, June 30 – Deadline to list officers in the MSD
Friday, July 16-Sunday, July 18 – Summer Board Retreat
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According to AAUW of Michigan Bylaws, suggestions from branches for nominees to the AAUW of Michigan Board shall be submitted in writing to the chair of the nominating committee at least sixty (60) days prior to the AAUWMI annual meeting. The nominating committee will report to the branches the names of all qualified nominees at least forty-five (45) days prior to the annual meeting.
As announced earlier, Ruth Brown is chair of the Nominating Committee and Deb Kennedy, Kay Calley-Martin, Susan Hampton, and Mary Mostaghim are members of the committee. Nominations are due by February 15 using the form that follows. This form will also be posted on the AAUWMI website under the tab ”Branch Information” at the top of the page.
Three positions will be elected: President-Elect, Finance Vice President, and Membership Vice President. Except for the President-Elect, the officers shall be elected for a term of two years (2021-2023). The President-Elect shall be elected for a term of one year (2021-2022) and shall succeed to a two-year term as president in the following year (2022-2024). All elected officers will take office on July 1, 2021. Elected officers, except for the President and President-Elect, are eligible to serve two-year terms in the same office. There may be co-officers.
The President-Elect shall have served at least two years on a state board of directors prior to her/his election. All elected board members shall have been members of AAUW for at least two years and shall have served on a branch or state board of directors for at least one year or have equivalent board experience elsewhere and have support of their branch and have demonstrated commitment to AAUW and knowledge of AAUW’s structures.
Please send the Nomination Form to:
Ruth Brown, Nominating Committee Chair
45 Apple Run Ln
Hillsdale, MI 49242
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Call for AAUWMI Bylaws Amendments
Members of AAUWMI have the opportunity to review and propose amendments to the AAUWMI bylaws each year. Amendments help insure that we keep pace with the most current governance practices and that we are operating in a way that is consistent with the will of our membership.
The deadline for submitting proposed bylaws amendments is February 15, 2021.
- The state may adopt and amend bylaws related to state affairs, but such bylaws shall not conflict with AAUW BYLAWS.
- A phrase, a sentence or a whole article may be amended.
- Reasons should be stated to explain why the recommendation is being made.
Procedure for Adoption (AAUWMI Bylaws, Article XX)
The provisions of these bylaws not governed by the AAUW BYLAWS may be amended at the state annual convention by a two-thirds vote of those present and voting, provided written notice shall have been sent to the members at least thirty (30) days prior to the meeting at which such amendment is to be acted upon.
An amendment to the bylaws at the state convention shall become effective and binding on all AAUWMI affiliates.
Please use a separate form for each proposed amendment being submitted.
For more information, please contact:
Elizabeth Haynes
AAUWMI Bylaws Director
2891 Forest Glade Dr.
Windsor, Ontario
Canada N8R1L4
519-562-1227
DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSION: February 15, 2021
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Is your branch working on a resolution of statement of principle? Is your branch or a study group within your branch working on a study or project that is an outgrowth of the current Association issue or of a particular need or interest in your community? Then you may want to submit a resolution to the AAUW of Michigan Resolutions Committee.
Please check your AAUW of Michigan Bylaws (ARTICLE XVII Resolutions Section 2) Deadline is February 15, 2021. Mail to Elizabeth Haynes, [email protected] or 2891 Forest Glade Drive, Windsor, Ontario, Canada N8R1L4
Definition of a Resolution
A resolution is a formal statement of the opinion or decision of an assembly, adopted by a vote. It may establish a framework within which some kind of action may be taken
A resolution is a position statement that may address any aspect of AAUW policy or program. It is an important tool to focus, develop, and give direction.
A resolution may also serve to clarify and publicize the position of the state on a current or controversial issue.
Format and Presentation
Resolutions may be simple, consisting of a single statement beginning with the word “Resolved.” Or it may be long and more formal, including one or more “whereas” statements. The preamble, beginning with the word “whereas” should be used ONLY to provide information or special reasons for the adoption of the resolution.
The “Resolving Clause” states the action to be taken such as “That AAUW of Michigan supports (or urges)…” a specific action.
A written statement should accompany each resolution and include:
a) well documented and logical reasons for its consideration by the state.
b) indication of where the study falls in the state program.
c) other pertinent material, such as sources of information, phases studies, proposed solutions and implementation.
Initiation of Resolutions
Resolutions may be initiated by individual members of AAUW of Michigan, branches, state committees and their members, members of the state board of directors and the Resolutions Committee.
Adoption of Resolutions
At the 2021 AAUW of Michigan electronic Annual Meeting, members of AAUWMI will consider program-based resolutions and courtesy resolutions submitted to them by the Resolutions Committee.
At that time the Resolutions Committee will also be presenting the five year review of current resolutions as required in the bylaws.
DEADLINE: February 15, 2021
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Please visit often, as you will find most information there and it is constantly being updated.
Our bylaws and branch forms (bylaws amendments, nominations, resolutions) are found there, as are reports from our Government Relations Coordinator Mary Pollock, copies of our newsletters and the Presidents’ Packet, calendar of events, announcements, link to our Facebook page, fundraising ideas, Five-Star Recognition Program, Board members’ contact information, etc.
Our Strategic Plan and Policies will soon be posted on our website: https://www.aauwmi.org/ under the tab “MI Business” at the top and then “MI Governance.” Our Statement on Gatherings and Statement on Racism will also be posted.
We would love for you to share branch newsletters with us. We also would be glad to post your events on the calendar. Additional ideas that you have for the website are also always welcome.
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Five-Star Recognition Program |
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Congratulations to the following branches who have earned stars since our last newsletter in AAUW’s Five Star Recognition Program:
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Ann Arbor – Public Policy and Research (also earned stars previously in Communications & External Relations, Programs, and Advancement)
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Farmington – Communications & External Relations (also earned a star previously in Advancement)
In addition, the following branches previously earned stars:
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Midland – Programs, Advancement
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Northville-Novi – Communications & External Relations, Programs
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Rochester – Advancement, Communications & External Relations, Programs
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Wyandotte-Downriver – Communications & External Relations, Public Policy and Research, Programs
The program only runs through June 30, 2021.
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