The Montgomery County Commission for Women (CFW) will host its 43rd Annual Women’s Legislative Briefing (WLB) virtually from 12:30-5 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 29. The theme of this year’s event is “Empowered Women Protect Democracy.”
The annual event brings together advocates, allies, policymakers and emerging leaders to empower, engage and mobilize Marylanders around issues affecting women and girls. Attendees will hear from, and engage with, members of the Maryland General Assembly, community leaders and representatives of organizations that advance the status of women and girls.
The opening session, “Women Who Empower Through Advocacy,” will include Adrianna Hopkins, a news anchor from WJLA ABC 7. She will serve as the moderator of a panel that includes:
- Virginia Kase Solomón, CEO, League of Women Voters
- DeAnna Hoskins, CEO, JustLeadershipUSA
- Susan Jin Davis, Social Impact Officer, Al Roker Entertainment
“This year’s Women’s Legislative Briefing theme is ‘Empowered Women Defend Democracy.’ This is an important message at a crucial time as we encourage civic action in order to elect leaders who represent solutions and protections for issues affecting women and girls,” said County Executive Marc Elrich. “The Montgomery County’s Women’s Commission Legislative Briefing reflects issues where empowerment is essential in our health, safety, education and economic justice. Last year, Montgomery County voters elected the first-ever female majority to our County Council and I look forward to serving the next four years with all of these new members. Together, along with the Women’s Commission, we are going to ensure that Montgomery County is a place where all women and girls can be supported and thrive.”
Following the opening panel discussion, attendees will have the opportunity to participate in breakout sessions focused on how empowered women and girls can influence critical legislation and policies to protect, access and secure women’s right to health care, public safety, economic justice and education.
An important component of the WLB is its signature Emerging Leaders sessions for middle and high schoolers. The interactive workshops focus on civic engagement and pathways to leadership for young women and men. This year’s topics include “Feeling Safe Everywhere: Home, School, Community” and “How to Express My Mental Health.” Students may earn up to three Student Service Learning hours by participating in the program.
Major sponsors supporting the event include AARP Maryland, Kaiser Permanente, The Universities at Shady Grove and Montgomery College. Approximately 50 community organizations also are supporting the event.
To participate in the Women’s Legislative Briefing, register at the WLB website.
For more information, call 240-777-8300 or visit the CFW website. Follow the event using the hashtag #MoCoWLB via Twitter and Facebook.
