Good Morning!

Policy & Action is always a motivational time for me and I have such a sense of awe when I am in Washington DC.  The platform BPW represents is “to achieve equity for all women in the workplace through advocacy, education, and information”.   

Today I’m not talking money, although it is extremely important, but rather I’ll be talking about advocacy.  The definition from Webster’s is “The act of pleading or arguing in favor of something, such as a cause, idea, or policy; active support”.  That is what BPW is and what BPW does.  All of our actions, straight forward and unafraid, are designed and implemented toward our goals.  Last year we lobbied against private accounts for social security.  This year we lobbied on 3 issues.  Do you know what they are or why they are important?  Let me tell you. 

The first issue is Johanna’s Law.  This provides funding for education of women and health care professional’s about the 1^st signs of gynecological cancers.  Historically, by the time a diagnosis of cancer is reached, chance for survival is slim.  This program allows education so women will know that certain abdominal issues are the warning signs that they could be walking down the road on a cancer diagnosis.   

The second issue is Healthy Families Act.  This bill would provide for 7 paid sick days per year.  Unfortunately, some people are required to choose between caring for a sick person in their home and the loss of their job.  This problem is particularly acute for working women who are still predominantly responsible for meeting family care-giving needs.  These 7 days could be used for any member of their family and has an added benefit to the employer.  Healthy workers are critical to a healthy, productive and vibrant economy. 

The third and final issue lobbied on the hill was The Retirement Security for Life Act.  The bill will help Americans maintain their standard of living throughout retirement by giving them incentives to purchase retirement vehicles that offer a steady stream of income for life.   

To find out more on this issues and the highlights of Policy & Action logon to the bpwusa.org webpage and go to the Advocacy Classroom.  You will be glad you did. 

Gwen Hoople

VP Finance/Treasurer