A New Year: An Old Fight
Dear MCSW Community:
Happiest of New Years from all of us here at the MCSW! It’s hard to believe how fast it seems time is flying, but it makes me all the more determined to slow down and enjoy every moment as it comes.
With the new year comes a new legislative session. On New Years Day, new and returning senators and representatives across the Commonwealth were sworn into the 194th General Court. Each legislative session lasts two years, and according to WWLP, this session has 3 new senators and 19 new representatives who won their November elections here in our state. We welcome these new members and look forward to visiting their offices on our upcoming 2025 Advocacy Day (have you registered yet?)
No matter what tidings the new year may bring, I am all the more determined to do it in community with all of you. That’s why this year, we’ll be spotlighting the good work of our 11 regional commissions who are listening to women and girls on a local level. Only by consistently listening to everyday stories can we even begin to make change on the state level that impacts our local communities, advancing the lives of all of us here in Massachusetts, regardless of party or partisan affiliation. Notice the good work being done in counties across the state through our regional commissions. Join them for a community event and have your voice heard - and listen to the voices from other women living in your county. Together, we can make a difference on a state level by starting in your community.
And so, I ask you to join me in listening this year. Listen to the voices of those in your communities by engaging with your regional commissions. You'll find them listed by county on this webpage. Listen to the voices of marginalized identities by registering for our upcoming WoC public hearing. Listen to the ideas of our youth by bringing a young person in your life to our STEM/STEAM GELI 2025 Summit. We host these events in an effort to hear directly from those who may otherwise not feel heard by their government, to act as a bridge between our lives and the policy that can make all the difference.
In 2025, let's respond to apathy with action. I encourage you use your voice to fight for the rights of all. Join us in advancing an ambitious slate of legislative priorities that will have lasting and positive impacts that will protect and preserve the rights of all women, children, and families in Massachusetts.
So, what’s on your mind? We're listening.
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Shaitia Spruell
Executive Director
Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Women (MCSW)
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January 2025 Regional Spotlight: Plymouth County Commission
This month, we’re spotlighting our Plymouth County Regional Commission (PCCSW) which was founded in 2018 with a mission to provide a permanent, effective voice for women and girls in Plymouth County. Since their initial launch, the commission has been active in the community, listening to their constituents and gathering testimony through public hearings, listening sessions, surveys, and panel discussions – all of which helps guide their legislative advocacy, both locally and on the state level.
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This new year, our resolution is the same as every year: to provide a permanent, effective voice for all women and girls across Massachusetts. | |
Join us: Virtual Public Hearing | |
We want to hear from you!
Join the Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Women (MCSW) and partners for a virtual public hearing focusing on the issues women of color face here in the Commonwealth.
In 2021, the MCSW released a report on the impact of COVID-19 and related recommendations to improve the status of all women of color here in the Commonwealth. As we reflect on the 5 years since COVID, we’re releasing an update survey and holding a public hearing to hear from you regarding issues that women of color face here in Massachusetts.
Public Hearings are an opportunity for women across Massachusetts to give testimony on issues that matter most to them, which directly inform MCSW’s policy priorities. The event is free and open to the public – and entirely virtual. Join us.
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Save the Date! Join the MCSW for Advocacy Day 2025 to rally behind legislation that increases women’s access to opportunities and equality. Registration and additional details to follow - stay tuned! | |
2024 was an incredible year, and 2025 is shaping up to be even more exciting! Congratulations to the Class of 2024 Commonwealth Heroines. Save the date for the 2025 Celebration at the Massachusetts Statehouse! | |
Congratulations to our
Executive Director!
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Please join us in congratulating our Executive Director Shaitia Spruell, who received the Latino Excellence Award on the hill at the Massachusetts State house. In her own words: "Today I celebrated Latino Excellence with my son at the Statehouse.
It meant so much to be able to share the moment with my son, who is one of my biggest motivators and supporters- in a room full of inspiring change makers. I believe it is important for the next generation of leaders to see themselves in their leaders and today he got to see himself represented in that room! Words can’t express the excitement and gratitude I have to be among some of Massachusetts’ most impactful latine trailblazers.
Thank you to Senator Cronin and the Massachusetts Black and Latino Legislative Caucus for this honor and congratulations to the other awardees for this year!"
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MCSW State Commissioner Audrey Hall recently invited Lisa MacDonald, Chair of the Metrowest Commission on the Status of Women to join a meeting of the Framingham Women, Children and Families Commission meeting (FWCFC).
Together, they shared information about the work and mission of the MCSW and MWCSW and shared ideas for collaboration.
Above from left to right:
Carolyn Assa (Chair, FWCFC), Maria Ruiz, Grace Snedden, Magda Janus, Brigitte Griffin (Clerk, FWCFC), Audrey Hall, (Commissioner, MCSW), Lisa MacDonald, (Chair, MWCSW), Lee Gagen, and Jessica Spaman.
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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. | |
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"Massachusetts ranks No. 1 among the best states for women, new study says"
“Women in the U.S. still face a lot of adversity, so living in the right state can greatly impact their quality of life. The best states for women provide equitable economic conditions, encourage robust political participation, have quality health care, and ensure safety for the women who reside there."
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The rising power of women in Massachusetts politics
Is the ‘original boys’ club’ slipping away? GBH News crunched the numbers. Read the Story.
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In Governor's Council race, 2 Haitian American Women Make History
Congratulations to Tamisha Civil, Eastern Region Commissioner and newly elected Governors Council member! "Massachusetts voters have made it clear that they support a judicial system centered on democratic values, protecting reproductive rights, and criminal justice reform,” Civil said in the statement. “I promise to stand up to injustice and fight every day to protect the freedoms of everyone in our Commonwealth.”
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MCSW Seeking Regional Commissioners
MCSW is seeking candidates to serve on the following Regional Commissions:
- Berkshire County
- Cape Cod and the Islands
- Hampshire-Franklin
We always accept applications on a rolling basis for all of our regionals! For more information and to apply: MCSW Regional Commissions.
For additional questions, contact Tina Games, Regional Commissions Director.
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Above Photos:
Eastern Regional CSW Commissioners Gabrielle Jackson, Amanda Crabb, and Connie Henderson join MCSW State Commissioner Sarah Glenn-Smith at the Massachusetts Conference for Women on December 9th in Boston where they networked with women leaders from across the state.
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Our regional commissions returned from the holiday season with an eye on legislative advocacy and spring programming. Several commissions held successful events in December which included panel discussions, listening sessions, and bill signings – and many are welcoming new commissioners in January.
Here’s a quick look at regional happenings across the Commonwealth:
- The Berkshire County Commission recently welcomed two new commissioners, Hope Bussiere and Meg Arvin – and look forward to their January meeting where they will be discussing plans for regional spring programming based on their 2025 legislative priorities and preparing for MCSW’s Advocacy Day in March.
- The Bristol County Commission held an organizational planning meeting in December where they discussed regional priorities, spring programming, and the election of new commission leadership. BCCSW is also looking forward to a spring collaboration with the Plymouth County Regional Commission on the topic of maternal care.
- The Cape Cod and Islands Commission will be revisiting the SANE Nurse issue where access to services in the region are being limited to telehealth. This will be a legislative focus for CCICSW in 2025, in addition to other priorities which were discussed at their December public meeting. The commission will also be hosting a girls listening session at the Mashpee Public Library on January 15th.
- The Eastern Regional Commission participated as a vendor at the Massachusetts Conference for Women on December 9th, where they met several influential leaders in the region and across the state. ERCSW will be leading the Parity on Boards Coalition, along with our Essex County Commission. The commission is also interviewing several applicants for two vacancies – and are finalizing their legislative priorities and planning a series of community events across the region.
- The Essex County Commission will be joint leading the Parity on Boards Coalition, along with our Eastern Regional Commission. This bill continues to be a legislative priority for Essex County. ECCSW Commissioners will also be joining members of their Ginsburg Initiative for the MassNOW Menstrual Equity Summit on January 2025 in support of the I AM Bill, which is another legislative priority for the commission. ECCSW Chair Brianna Sullivan attended the bill signing ceremony at the State House for the Act Supporting Parents Running for Public Office in December, which was one of ECCSW’s legislative priorities in 2023-2024.
- The Hampden County Commission hosted a virtual panel discussion on December 17th which focused on homelessness, incarceration, mental health, and substance abuse. They also participated in a community outreach event in Springfield on December 22nd where they distributed menstrual items to homeless women and girls. Chair Nicole Coakley also attended the bill signing ceremony at the State House for the Act Supporting Parents Running for Public Office in December, which has been one of HCCSW’s legislative priorities.
- The Hampshire-Franklin Commission will be welcoming three new commissioners at their January strategic planning meeting – Jo-Ann Konieckny, Olivia Laramie, Victoria Edwards – where they will finalize their legislative priorities and discuss spring programming. HFCSW will also be recognizing founding commissioner Bonnie MacCracken who termed out at the end of the calendar year.
- The MetroWest Commission will be welcoming a new commissioner at their January meeting, Kathleen Marchi. The commission will also be electing new leadership and finalizing their legislative priorities in preparation for MCSW’s Advocacy Day in March. The MWCSW Athena Council will be hosting a panel discussion on women’s rights on January 18th.
- The Plymouth County Commission held a successful community listening session on December 10th at Massasoit Community College in Brockton where they were joined by State Representative Joan Meschino. PCCSW is also looking forward to a spring collaboration with the Bristol County Regional Commission on the topic of maternal care. Additionally, PCCSW Commissioner Danielle Kempe attended the bill signing ceremony at the State House for the Act Supporting Parents Running for Public Office in December, which has been one of PCCSW’s legislative priorities. PCCSW also recognized founding commissioners Elisabeth Arruda and Carolyn Riley who termed out at the end of the calendar year.
- The Upper Middlesex Commission welcomed four new commissioners - Jessica Kallin, Julie Laflamme, Elizabeth Duclos-Orsello, Doreen Wade – and will be hosting a strategic planning retreat in January. The commission is also looking forward to supporting the work of their Athena Council which is in its third year. UMCSW recognized founding commissioner Connie Chow who termed out at the end of the calendar year.
- The Worcester County Commission will be welcoming three new commissioners – Mary Delaney, Cathleen Liberty, Amber Vayo – at their January meeting where they’ll be presenting their 2025 legislative priorities in preparation for MCSW’s Advocacy Day in March. WCCSW continues to expand their community advisory board which now includes over a dozen members who are engaged with the work of their commission and who serve as ambassadors across the region.
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State Representative Joan Meschino joined Plymouth County Commissioners for their December 10th Listening Session at Massasoit Community College in Brockton where they heard from women in the region on issues that matter to them. | |
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Above Photos:
Plymouth County Commissioner Jacqueline Jones attends the swearing in ceremony for new PCCSW Commissioner Daphne Remy Gomes in Bridgewater.
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Updates from the Coalition Corner | |
Mentorship opportunity! The United Way of Central Massachusetts is seeking 30-35 mentors to guide students through key financial concepts. This opportunity is open to all women, including graduate students, early-career professionals, executives, and others. No experience is necessary, as training will be provided. Link to Register: https://tinyurl.com/DScholar2425 | |
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
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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
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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:
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