|
Using Our Voices: A Journey Towards Equality
Dear MCSW Community:
With the national election upon us, the stress is palpable. Billions of dollars are being spent to win our votes—a clear reminder of just how valuable our votes are.
Throughout history, voting has played a pivotal role in advancing women’s rights. Voting opens the doors to influence legislation which directly impacts our lives, from reproductive rights to workplace equality and so much more. Influencing legislation is a big part of the work we are so passionate about here at the Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Women (MCSW). As an MCSW State Commissioner appointed by Senate President Karen Spilka, I am honored and proud to do this work to advance the rights of all women and girls across Massachusetts. She is a champion of women’s rights, along with the impressive team of women in the corner office leading this great Commonwealth of Massachusetts. We make history in so many ways.
Women have made significant strides in political representation at all levels, but it’s still not enough. When women vote in their communities, when they run for office and serve, when they engage with their communities, they help prioritize issues like equal pay, affordable childcare, access to healthcare, and protections against domestic violence, which has lasting impacts on the lives of women and families.
My journey has been one of discovery and growth, fueling my passion to fight for equal rights for women.
Through various experiences—personal, educational, and professional—I have come to understand the profound impact of gender disparities on individuals and communities. These experiences have shaped me into the passionate feminist I am today, driving my commitment to advocacy and change. I share a little of my story with you in the hopes that it inspires you to make change in your corner of the world, as well.
A Preventable Tragedy
My journey began with a heartbreaking experience: my mother’s preventable death at just 31 years old. She was hospitalized for breathing difficulties, yet her symptoms were dismissed because she was a young woman. Delays in testing led to her death from a treatable infection. This tragedy opened my eyes to the devastating effects of age and gender bias in healthcare—a stark reminder of how systemic inequities can cost lives.
Early Lessons in Discrimination
As a child, I faced gender discrimination in elementary school. Despite frigid temperatures, girls were forbidden from wearing pants, while the boys were bundled up in warm clothing. Together, the girls approached the principal and were eventually granted permission to wear pants to school. It was a small victory, but it taught me the power of collective action. Later, in high school, I encountered another barrier. The curriculum tracked girls into “Home Economics” while boys were directed to “Woodshop.” This division reinforced stereotypical gender roles and limited our potential. It was a clear indication of how deeply ingrained these biases were, pushing me further into advocacy as I entered the workforce.
Workplace Inequities
My professional experiences in the male dominated advertising agency business in New York City revealed systemic inequalities in the corporate world early in my career. Despite having the same qualifications, young women were often relegated to administrative roles, while their male counterparts were fast-tracked into management training. One particularly disheartening moment occurred after I interviewed for a radio news reporting job. The man who would have been my boss praised my qualifications, stating that I was “highly qualified and perfect for the job.” He then revealed a shocking rationale for his decision: he felt I would be a “threat to his marriage,” and therefore, he couldn’t hire me. I felt disbelief, anger, and ultimately, a profound sense of powerlessness. This disparity highlighted the need for change; it was emblematic of a systemic issue that affects countless women across various industries. By confronting these issues head-on and raising awareness, we can challenge the discriminatory practices and biases that limit women's potential in the workforce.
Advocating for Change
When I applied for a Regional Management position at a large media company, I was disheartened to discover that the job offer I received came with a salary 20% lower than that of my male predecessor. This disparity was not just a personal affront; it was a glaring example of the gender pay gap that continues to affect women in the workplace still to this day. As I ascended to Executive Management, I found myself in a position of both pride and responsibility, becoming the first woman to hold such a high-level role in my company.
However, this achievement came with its own set of challenges, particularly when I decided to start a family. When I requested maternity leave, I was confronted with a startling reality: the company had no maternity policy in place for Executive Management. Despite the protections offered by the relatively new Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA), which ensured my job was secure during my absence, I was faced with the expectation that I would work unpaid from home. This situation highlighted a significant gap in the company’s approach to supporting women in leadership roles and raised critical questions about equity and inclusivity in the workplace.
Upon my return to work, I formally requested retroactive pay for the time I had worked unpaid. This request was not merely about financial compensation; it represented a stand against the outdated norms that often leave women in precarious positions when balancing career and family. My persistence paid off when the company ultimately agreed to my request and adopted a new maternity leave policy.
Moving Forward Together
These are among the many experiences that have fueled my commitment to advocate for gender equality. I am proud to say that there have also been many rewarding victories along the way. I believe in the power of sharing our stories and supporting one another in the fight against injustices. Together, by using our voices, we can continue to challenge the status quo and create a more equitable world for everyone.
The MCSW recently released a statement encouraging every one of you to vote. If you haven’t already, please vote in this national election. At the MCSW we believe that every individual has the right to be heard, and that empowerment begins with participation. Therefore, we urge you to always use your voice!
In Solidarity,
Commissioner Audrey Hall
| | |
|
|
Commissioner Audrey Hall was recently re-appointed by Senate President Karen E. Spilka to serve another term as a Commissioner on the Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Women.
Join us in congratulating her as she takes the oath of office to continue her service to women and girls of the Commonwealth!
| | |
The MCSW wants YOU to Vote! | |
|
The Commissioners of the MCSW have collectively come together to release a statement about the importance of casting your vote on November 5, 2024. Your input, your voices, and your experiences ultimately inform every day decisions made in the town or city we live in, the state we call home, and the country we all love.
Read our statement and then make a plan for Election Day. Be sure you’re registered to vote or update your voter registration status!
| |
Register Now:
Virtual Hearing on Healthcare
| |
|
Join the Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Women (MCSW) and partners for a virtual public hearing focusing on the impacts of issues relating to health and healthcare here in the Commonwealth.
Public Hearings are an opportunity for women across the Massachusetts to give testimony on issues that matter most to them, which directly inform MCSW’s policy priorities. We’re asking anyone interested in healthcare issues impacting women, children, and families to testify and share their experiences to learn from one another and create change, together.
The event is free and open to the public – and entirely virtual. Leaders and residents from across the Commonwealth are invited to attend, and testimony is open to any member of the public, including elected officials, to learn more about the topic at hand and hear directly from residents and constituents.
Translation, ASL, and other languages accessibility options available - register to indicate your need.
RSVP at: bit.ly/MCSWvirtualhealthhearing or scan the QR code!
| |
Thank you for Joining us: UMass Amherst | |
|
Thank you for joining us at our hybrid public hearing held at the University of Massachusetts Amherst.
We heard powerful testimony on the impacts of predatory lending on women and families, housing availability, the need for mental health services, and other key issues facing women, children, and families across the Commonwealth. In case you missed it, you can now watch the full recap video via YouTube.
We invite you to share your feedback with us. We value your input and would be grateful if you would take our brief exit survey.
We look forward to seeing you again soon!
Weren’t able to join us? Save the date for our next public hearing on November 20, 2024 – entirely virtual and centering on the issues impacting women’s health!
| |
|
Read the full piece via WWLP 22 News: On 10/22, Girls. Inc. of the Valley hosted Speaking Out, an event with panelists and guests in Holyoke. Our Executive Director Shaitia Spruell was honored to be a panelist, alongside:
- At-Large City councilor for the city of Holyoke and City Council President/ED for EforAll/EparaTodos Pioneer Valley Tessa Murphy-Romboletti, and
- Maria Lester COO of the Pocket Project, and
- a faculty member at Harvard Medical School’s Master’s in Bioethics Program.
The theme of the event was civic engagement and women leading change. At the event guests heard from the panelists on some of the top issues that concern both girls and women. The non-profit is inspiring girls to be the next generation of leaders. All of the funds raised at the event including tickets to enter, will support programs that help those involved with Girls Inc. of the Valley. To learn more information or get involved, you can check out their website.
| |
Massachusetts continues to be well represented at the National Association of Commissions for Women (NACW). Two of our very own serve in leadership positions! MCSW Chairwoman Tuitt was elected to serve another term as the NACW President. MCSW Executive Director Shaitia Spruell will also serve a 2-year term as NACW Director-at-Large. Congratulations and thank you for representing Massachusetts at the National level. | | |
|
"My Passion is Empowering Women:" Elizabeth Freeman Center taps Chaturvedi as its new Executive Diretor
MCSW Commissioner Divya Chaturvedi was recently named the ED of the EFC, a 24/7 domestic violence and sexual assault crisis center that serves Berkshire County.
Congratulations from the MCSW!
| | |
|
The rising power of women in Massachusetts politics
Is the ‘original boys’ club’ slipping away? GBH News crunched the numbers. Read the Story.
| |
| | |
MCSW Seeking Regional Commissioners
MCSW is seeking candidates to serve on the following Regional Commissions:
- Berkshire County
- Cape Cod and the Islands
- Hampden County
- Hampshire-Franklin
- MetroWest
- Plymouth County
- Worcester County
For more information and to apply: MCSW Regional Commissions.
For additional questions, contact Tina Games, Regional Commissions Director.
| |
|
Above Photos:
Hampshire-Franklin Regional Commissioners Bonnie MacCracken, Laura Sylvester, and Luzed Guzman Romano attended the MCSW Public Hearing on October 22nd at UMass-Amherst where they spoke with community members. HFCSW Chair Bonnie MacCracken offered remarks on behalf of the commission.
| |
|
Our Regional Commissions have been busy this past month, hosting community conversations, listening sessions, strategic planning retreats - and attending local conferences and public hearings. All of our 11 regionals are focused on identifying their legislative priorities in preparation for MCSW's Advocacy Day on March 24th where they will gather with state commissioners and community partners at the State House in Boston. Here's a quick overview of regional happenings across the Commonwealth.
-
The Berkshire County Commission hosted their annual strategic planning retreat on October 20th at Girls, Inc. in Pittsfield where MCSW Regional Commissions Director Tina Games facilitated a thoughtful and productive discussion among commissioners who have set their goals and legislative priorities for the FY25 programming year.
-
The Bristol County Commission has been active in the community, attending several local events which include the first annual Diversity in Business Expo and the Confidently Me Women's Workshop in Taunton. One of their regional priorities is maternal health, where they are in partnership with the Plymouth County Commission on an event scheduled for March.
- The Cape Cod and Islands Commission hosted a women's leadership forum on Saturday, October 26th in Hyannis where over 35 community partners gathered for a conversation about the most pressing needs of women in the region. Among those in attendance were State Senator Susan Moran, State Representative Kip Diggs, Barnstable County Commissioner Sheila Lyons, Independence House Program Director Katia Dacunha, and WE CAN Executive Director Lisa Guyon. CCICSW Commissioners Amy Peters and Natalia Frois moderated the discussion with CCICSW Chair Lynne Barbee making opening comments. The program was also translated in Portuguese.
-
The Eastern Regional Commission has been interviewing candidates for upcoming vacancies - and has set their calendar for the FY25 programming year, which includes a fall legislative event and a spring tea with commissioners. They're also in conversations with community partners planning for a women's history event in March.
-
The Essex County Commission hosted a presentation on ballot initiatives during their October 10th public meeting. Commissioners have also been focused on identifying regional priorities for the new legislative cycle - and welcomed a new college intern who will oversee and support the work of their Ginsburg Initiative.
- The Hampden County Commission is planning a legislative lunch event to introduce their regional priorities to state legislators - and will continue working with community partners on a series of events that support the needs of women and girls in their region with a particular focus on housing and homelessness.
-
The Hampshire-Franklin Commission participated in the MCSW Public Hearing at UMass-Amherst on October 22nd where HFCSW Chair Bonnie MacCracken spoke on behalf of the commission and welcomed state commissioners and other guests to the area. Also in attendance were HFCSW Commissioners Laura Sylvester and Luzed Guzman Romano. All three commissioners staffed a Hampshire-Franklin CSW table and spoke with community members and partners about their work in the region.
-
The MetroWest Commission hosted a virtual listening session on October 8th and gathered testimony from women in the region on issues of importance to them. This information will help guide their legislative priorities. MWCSW is also working closely with their Athena Council which recently welcomed 16 new members.
-
The Plymouth County Commission has scheduled a listening session on November 20th at the Plymouth Library to help guide their legislative priorities - and is also looking forward to a spring collaboration with the Bristol County Commission on the topic of maternal care.
-
The Upper Middlesex Commission recently welcomed four new commissioners - Jessica Kallin, Julie Laflamme, Elizabeth Duclos-Orsello, Doreen Wade - and is beginning an onboarding process that will include a strategic planning retreat. They're also looking forward to supporting the work of their Athena Council which is in its third year.
-
The Worcester County Commission hosted State Senator Michael Moore on October 17th for a conversation about legislative priorities. WCCSW is also planning a public hearing in November and looks forward to receiving testimony from women in the region on issues of importance to them.
| |
The Cape Cod and Islands Regional Commission hosted a women's leadership forum on Saturday, October 26th in Hyannis where over 35 community partners gathered for a conversation about the most pressing needs of women in the region. CCICSW Commissioners Amy Peters and Natalia Frois moderated the discussion which was also translated in Portuguese. CCICSW Chair Lynne Barbee made opening comments with Commissioners Mary Waygan and Chinna Mapp also in attendance. | |
Above: Berkshire County Regional Commissioners Shela Levante, Laura Cabrera, Halli Stewart, Marissa Dubecky, and Sarah Gillooly gathered at Girls, Inc. in Pittsfield on October 20th for their annual strategic planning retreat. | |
|
Above:
Congratulations to Hampden County Commission on the Status of Women and Girls commissioner Magdalena Gomez! Named Springfield's Poet Laureate from 2019-2022, she has recently won the coveted International Latino Book Award for her highly acclaimed memoir noir, Mi’ja (Heliotrope Books, NYC; May, 2022). Learn more: Home (mijamemoir.com)
| |
Updates from the Coalition Corner | |
|
The Governor’s Youth Advisory Council would like to invite your youth members ages 16-20 to the first ever Youth Summit held Wednesday, November 13th, from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM in the Great Hall of the Massachusetts State House. The summit will explore important topics such as Mental Health, Education, Youth Violence, and Healthcare.
Join us for special guest speakers, programming, and to create community with other civically engaged youth who are committed to youth advancement in Massachusetts. RSVP here!
| |
The Women Veterans Network (WVN) mission is to empower women veterans by ensuring their voices are heard, their contributions acknowledged, and their well-being enhanced through education, advocacy, and collaboration.
Join the network and get involved!
| |
Save the Dater for the College & Career Access Fair happening on November 9, 1:30-5:00. Learn more and register here.
If anyone is interested in learning more about how to get involved in the development of the Children and Youth Community Health Improvement Plan (CYCHIP) can reach out to Tempe (tempe@healthygreaterworcester.org).
| |
|
The Worth & Wealth Seminars are free webinars that deliver hands-on education for participants to achieve their full financial potential. Sponsored by Citizens, these workshops enable attendees to sharpen their skills on investing, money management, and retirement and are for people of all ages, ethnicities, economic backgrounds, and levels of fiscal knowledge.
Participants can also access free one-on-one financial coaching with Oriana Falkowski, an Accredited Financial Counselor, AFC® through the Association for Financial Counseling & Planning Education and founder of Money Map Coaching.
| |
The Massachusetts Girls in Trades is hosting upcoming conferences and career fairs! Register for the Eastern or Western Conferences. For questions, please reach out to Sarah Adams: Sadams.massgit@gmail.com. | |
Massachusetts is a state of firsts. The first shot of the American Revolution. The first public school, park, and library. The first state constitution. We’ve always been at the forefront of America and the ways it dreams. As we mark the 250th anniversary of our country and independence, the Healey administration is inviting fellow Americans, and the world, to experience the history we’ve made and continue to make. Follow along at @Massachusetts250 and 250.ma as we celebrate 250 years of innovation and progress. | |
|
Join us at any of our monthly committee meetings:
Legislative & Public Policy Committee:
First Tuesday of every month, 5:30-6:30pm
Regional Chairs Meeting:
First Tuesday of every month, 7:00-8:00pm
Program & Planning Committee:
Second Tuesday of every month, 5:30pm-6:30pm.
Finance Committee:
Second Thursday of every month, 3:00-4:00pm
Executive Committee:
Third Tuesday of every month, 4:00-5:30pm
Full Commission Meeting:
Fourth Tuesday of every month, 4:00pm- 5:30pm
| |
|
Mary-dith Tuitt, Boston
Chairwoman
Christine Monska, Auburndale
Vice-Chairwoman
Tanisha Arena, Springfield
Treasurer
Finance Committee Chair
Dr. Kimberly Shea, Winchendon
Secretary
Dr. Sarah Glenn-Smith, Holliston
Immediate Past Chairwoman
Legislative and Public Policy Committee Secretary
Rebecca Bact, Auburndale
Carol Campbell, Amherst
Divya Chaturvedi, Wilmington
Finance Committee Vice-Chair
Denella Clark, Hyde Park
Guimel DeCarvalho, Natick
Legislative and Public Policy Committee Chair
Marianne Fleckner, Westford
Jean Fox, Freetown
Program and Planning Committee Vice-Chair
Allison Goldberg, Marblehead
Audrey Hall, Framingham
Finance Committee Secretary
Nina Liang, Quincy
Leslie-Ann McGee, Falmouth
Program and Planning Committee Secretary
Dr. Aisha Miller, Mattapan
Program and Planning Committee Chair
Sonia Shah, Natick
Legislative and Public Policy Committee Vice-Chair
| |
 | |
The Office of Economic Empowerment - Economic Empowerment for Women
The Office of Economic Empowerment provides several programs geared toward women of the Commonwealth, covering financial literacy, wage equality, and more.
Under Treasurer Deborah B. Goldberg, the Office of Economic Empowerment (OEE) focuses on creating and implementing programs and initiatives that give women the tools to succeed at home and in the workplace. They provide quality workshops and opportunities for women to learn strategies for financial success and free resources.
Mass 2-1-1: This online directory is an information resource for emergency food, rent, help to pay your heating and utility bills, mental health counseling, health programs, public health and safety services, child care referrals, job resources, and other help for individuals' parents, and families.
Massachusetts Girls in Trades was launched in 2015 by a partnership of educational, governmental and union organizations with a shared goal of supporting and encouraging female career and technical education students and alumnae to pursue careers in the building trades. Directory of Joint Apprenticeship Training Centers in Massachusetts.
Find LGBTQ Youth Resources: A comprehensive list of LGBTQ resources for youth throughout the state of Massachusetts, updated frequently, from our partners at Massachusetts Commission on LGBTQ Youth.
Local Women’s Commissions
There are currently 11 local Women’s Commissions that represent various cities and towns in the Commonwealth. While these Commissions are independent of MCSW, the Commission serves as a resource and partner for local commissions:
| | | | |
