This commentary is by Kellie B. Campbell of Georgia, a member of the Vermont Commission on Women.
For many, the days following the election are driving many different types of emotions. No matter your position on the outcome, it is important to ask the question: Was America ready for a woman to lead our nation? Much of the country believes no, and unfortunately, we are not surprised.
This has been our normal since 1872 when Victoria Woodhull ran for president, and our history hasn’t changed since. There have been, are, and we worry will continue to be, too many inequitable experiences women and girls (defined as cis and trans women and girls, as well as non- binary people) face that will continue to preserve that classic and infuriating glass ceiling. For women who want to lead, let us say this clearly: You are deserving. Now is also the time to get involved to support change.
The Vermont Commission on Women is an independent nonpartisan state government commission working to advance rights and opportunities for women and girls in Vermont. The simple truth is that today, even after years of progress mixed with unfortunate setbacks, women still face disproportionate inequities in the workplace, in our communities, and across our nation and world.
The Commission works, in partnership with advisory partners, to address gender equity issues across our state in support of all Vermonters. Whether you’re ready to act now, or you need time to process the full, valid spectrum of emotions, there are always ways to get involved and support women and girls affected by gender oppression.
When you visit women.vermont.gov, you will find a wealth of resources, research, publications and information about partners across our state joining us in this work. Join us by sharing your stories, attending our meetings, joining one of our working committees, helping track and support legislative policy or volunteering and engaging with our advisory organizations. No step forward is too small, and we welcome a broad, diverse range of individuals to join us.
This work requires many. May our male colleagues and community members be champions of change. May our workplace and community partners bring voice to specific inequities and lead change. May we promote diverse leaders, supporting our youth in seeing a way forward for all.Â
May our communities advocate for places that serve and welcome all of us. May we extend an invitation at our tables, looking around and understanding who is not there. May we seek voices that differ, bring new perspectives, and challenge our thinking with a desire to better understand one another.
Core and always central in our work is the understanding that when women thrive, our communities thrive. Join us in this action and see how to get involved on our website. We look forward to the collaborative work that makes Vermont and beyond a better place for all.
Read the story on VTDigger here: Kellie B. Campbell: Now is the time to support women and girls.