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Celebrating the Many Facets of our Lives
Dear MCSW Community:
Happy May! This month, we celebrate May Day, Mother’s Day, Asian American Pacific American (AAPI) Heritage Month, Maternal Health Month, Mental Health Awareness Month, and more. Each of these observances highlights a vital aspect of our lives, our identities, and our struggles. As women, particularly women of color, immigrant women, and survivors, we do not lead single-issue lives.
As an MCSW State Commissioner originally appointed by the Caucus of Women Legislators in 2022, I am proud to work toward a future where all women and girls can live free from violence and with the full dignity, voice, and opportunity they deserve. This work is deeply personal to me, not only as a woman of color, and as a mother, but as an advocate for immigrant women, especially those who are survivors of domestic and sexual violence. Their stories are often hidden, their voices unheard. I see it as my responsibility to help change that.
While we celebrate the Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month in May and the profound contributions of the AAPI community to our country and in our Commonwealth, it is also a time to reflect on the challenges our communities continue to face, especially at the intersection of gender, immigration, and racial justice. Many immigrant and AAPI survivors of violence continue to face immense barriers in getting the help they need and deserve. Language barriers, immigration status, and economic insecurity can silence women at the exact moment they need support most. As we honor our heritage, we must also commit to addressing the barriers that keep so many AAPI survivors in the margins.
This month also brings Mother’s Day. As a mother, I know that the greatest legacy we can leave our children is not just survival, but the freedom to lead, to thrive, and to shape their own futures. That is why I believe so deeply in investing in the leadership of girls, especially girls from immigrant and underserved communities.
Just last week, we were joined by hundreds of young women across the Commonwealth for our 2025 Girls Empowerment Leadership Initiative (GELI) Summit, held at Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI). It was absolutely one for the record books. Together we networked, learned from world-class scientists at the top of their fields, and got hands on experiences in the lab and in our communities.
We appreciate all of the time, energy, and hard work that went into making this event a success. We value your input and would be grateful if you would take our brief exit survey and share your thoughts about the experience. If you were able to join us, please take a moment to fill out our GELI survey and let us know how we can improve future events.
If you're interested in learning more about programs happening at the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI), check out their website or view these digital brochures for additional information!
Later this month, we’ll host a virtual public hearing to update our data on issues impacting women of color in Massachusetts. 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 updated survey and holding a public hearing to hear from you regarding issues that women of color face here in Massachusetts. We hope you can join us on Tuesday, May 20, 2025 from 6-8pm – register here.
No matter what’s happening in the world around you, here at the MCSW, we’re building community through sisterhood. There’s plenty to be done, plenty to fight for – and we’ll stand with you every step of the way.
In Solidarity,
Divya Chaturvedi
MCSW State Commissioner
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May 2025 Regional Spotlight: Worcester Commission (WCCSW)
Every month this year, we’re proudly spotlighting the work of our 11 regional commissions. This month, we uplift the Worcester County Commission on the Status of Women (WCCSW), whose mission is to provide a permanent, effective voice for women and girls in their region.
| | | The Worcester County Commission on the Status of Women represents all towns and cities in Worcester County including: Ashburnham, Athol, Auburn, Barre, Blackstone, Bolton, Boylston, Brookfield, Charlton, Clinton, Dana, Douglas, Dudley, Fitchburg, Gardner, Grafton, Greenwich, Hardwick, Harvard, Holden, Hubbardston, Lancaster, Leicester, Leominster, Lunenburg, Mendon, Milford, Millbury, New Braintree, Northboro, Northbridge, North Brookfield, Oakham, Oxford, Paxton, Petersham, Phillipston, Prescott, Princeton, Shrewsbury, Southboro, Southbridge, Spencer, Sterling, Sturbridge, Sutton, Templeton, Upton, Uxbridge, Warren, Webster, Westboro, West Boylston, West Brookfield, Westminster, Winchendon, Worcester. | | Thank You: 2025 GELI Summit | | At this year's Girls Empowerment Leadership Initiative (GELI) Summit, two of our Athena Council members led a Youth Town Hall. The discussion centered around one key question: "What is the most pressing issue facing girls today?" The conversation was lively and girls from all across the Commonwealth discussed issues relating to health and safety, social media, and more. MWCSW Intern and Athena Council Chair Julie Karam and CCICSW Intern Ayesha Shafi co-facilitated the GELI Town Hall and served as peer leaders for the event. Thank you to these regional youth leaders for engaging with our youth on issues that matter the most! | | Local Women are Remarkable | | |
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"Massachusetts ranks No. 1 among the best states for women, new study says"
March is Women’s History Month and to celebrate 51% of the population, a recent study compared all 50 states across 25 key metrics. The data set ranges from median earnings for female workers to the quality of women’s health care to the female homicide rate. Massachusetts claimed the top spot as the best U.S. state for women in 2025.
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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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'A generation of confident, powerful women': MAWOCC opens new headquarters
The Massachusetts Women of Color Coalition (MAWOCC) is marking 10 years with something extra to celebrate: a new space to call home, with an office at the Grove Street Family Properties complex at 100 Grove St. MAWOCC has opened its headquarters in downtown Worcester, and business development advocates and advocates for women of color hope the new MAWOCC office will serve as a strong community presence. In its 10 years, MAWOCC has created a support network among political leaders, business owners and community advocates locally and statewide.
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Governor Healey Unveils Art Exhibition for Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month
Governor Maura Healey unveiled a temporary art installment showcasing the talent and creativity of Asian American artists living in Massachusetts. This exhibition includes a wide range of mediums—including photography, embroidery and paintings—from artists of various Asian backgrounds. The exhibition, in partnership with the Mass Cultural Council, is displaying the work of Yu Cheng, Tira Khan, Timothy Hyunsoo Lee and On Kyeong Seong in the reception area of the Governor’s office through May 16.
| | 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. | |
MCSW Seeking Regional Commissioners
MCSW is seeking candidates to serve on the following Regional Commissions:
- Berkshire County
- Bristol County
- Cape Cod and the Islands
- Hampshire-Franklin CSW
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:
Berkshire County CSW Commissioner Laura Cabrera brought a group of youth participants to GELI where they engaged in workshops focused on STEM and leadership initiatives. They're joined by MCSW Regional Director Tina Games!
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Above:
GELI had great representation by our regional commissions. Pictured here is Michelle Davidson and Daphne Remy Gomes from Plymouth County CSW (left) and Amy Peters and Chinna Mapp from Cape Cod & the Islands CSW with their regional intern, Ayesha Shafi (right).
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The Spring Regional Convening will be a highlight this month as regional and state commissioners gather for an evening of networking and learning. The event will be held on May 7th in Pittsfield at Berkshire Community College and will be hybrid to allow commissioners from the eastern part of the state to participate. In addition to the Regional Convening, several regional commissioners attended GELI where they volunteered in a variety of ways, engaging with participants and youth group leaders. Our regional commissions are also planning several events this month, including panel discussions, legislative meetings, listening sessions, and community forums. Here’s a snapshot of what’s happening across the Commonwealth:
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The Berkshire County Commission was represented at GELI with BCCSW Commissioner Laura Cabrera attending with a group of participants. BCCSW Commissioners met with State Representative Tricia Farley-Bouvier at their May public meeting to discuss regional priorities and key legislative bills – and will be interviewing several applicants for three vacancies later this month.
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The Bristol County Commission was represented at GELI by BCCSW Chair Stephanie Taylor who’s been a consistent attendee since GELI’s inception several years ago. BCCSW Commissioners are preparing to interview several applicants for current vacancies – and are planning to attend the year-end celebration for the Women’s Fund Southcoast Young Women’s Advisory Council (YWAC) in June.
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The Cape Cod and Islands Commission was represented at GELI by CCICSW Commissioners Chinna Mapp and Amy Peters. CCICSW Intern Ayesha Shafi co-facilitated the GELI Town Hall – and served as a peer leader for the event. The commission is looking forward to a strategic planning retreat this summer – and will be welcoming a new CCICSW commissioner in June.
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The Eastern Regional Commission was represented at GELI by ERCSW Commissioner Stacy Wilbur who attended with a group of participants. The commission is also looking forward to their Spring Tea where they’ll be meeting with community partners to discuss regional priorities and collaborative advocacy work in their communities. They will be welcoming a new commissioner in June.
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The Essex County Commission is putting together a Women Running for Office Summit – and is planning a legislative breakfast and a listening session for late spring. They continue to work closely with their Ginsburg Initiative on issues of importance to girls in Essex County.
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The Hampden County Commission was represented at GELI by HCCSW Commissioner Sasha Viands who attended with a group of participants. The commission is planning a spring legislative breakfast with their state legislators in June, where they’ll engage in conversations regarding their regional priorities. They’re also organizing a women in leadership panel for late May. HCCSW Chair Nicole Coakley was recently recognized as a Channel 22 Remarkable Woman – and was honored at a special ceremony for her work on behalf of women in Western MA.
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The Hampshire-Franklin Commission is partnering with the Women’s Fund of Western Massachusetts to host a community listening session and is working on a series of op-eds that support their regional priorities.
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The MetroWest Commission is planning a film screening and discussion for later this spring – and welcomed community partners RIA and Safe Exit Initiative at their April public meeting to discuss regional priorities. MWCSW Intern and Athena Council Chair Julie Karam co-facilitated the GELI Town Hall – and served as a peer leader for the event
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The Plymouth County Commission was represented at GELI by PCCSW Commissioners Michelle Davidson and Daphne Remy Gomes. The commission is working on an update of their 2022 resource guide – and PCCSW Commissioners are looking forward to their women in trades event on May 21st at South Shore Technical High School. They will be welcoming a new commissioner in June.
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The Upper Middlesex Commission has been hosting a series of coffee conversations around the region, engaging with community members, local leaders, and state representatives on issues of concern for women and girls in the region.
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The Worcester County Commission is planning a legislative breakfast for later this spring – and have been hosting a series of conversations with community partners regarding collaborative efforts as it relates to their legislative priorities.
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Above:
Bristol County CSW Commissioners Millie Sanchez, Stephanie Taylor, Makenzie Lennington attended a community event at UMass-Dartmouth where they proudly displayed their regional legislative priorities.
| | 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, 4:00 - 5:00pm
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
Giselle Byrd, Boston
Carol Campbell, Amherst
Divya Chaturvedi, Wilmington
Finance Committee Vice-Chair
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
Dr. Candace E. Peréz, Lynn
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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