MWPC's Blog

A Very Powerful Message

2012-02-03T12:29:00.000-05:00

We at MWPC were thrilled to learn today that the Susan G. Komen Foundation has reversed its decision to withdraw its funding of Planned Parenthood. Their original decision was inherently harmful to women's health and we are pleased that the Komen Foundation listened to advocates and revised their decision in order to continue to provide funding for breast cancer screenings. The events since they announced their plans to withdraw funding have sent a very important message to anti-choice advocates: women will not allow political motivations to trump our health. We send our most sincere congratulations to Planned Parenthood and our most sincere thanks to everyone who spoke out in defense of this outstanding organization that is so crucial to the health and well-being of hundreds of thousands of women across the country. This was just one battle along what has proven to be a very long road, so we ask that you continue to stand with Planned Parenthood. We know we will.

We STILL Stand with Planned Parenthood

2012-02-03T10:30:00.000-05:00

In the wake of the Susan G. Komen Foundation's disappointing and disturbing decision to withdraw their funds for breast cancer screenings from Planned Parenthood, we went public to make it known that we still stand with Planned Parenthood and that the Komen Foundation's decision is unacceptable. Here is our letter to the editor we sent to show our open support for PPFA and our conviction that political motivations should never trump women's health:

I am writing on behalf of the Massachusetts Women's Political Caucus to express our profound disappointment in the Susan G. Komen Foundation for its decision to pull their funding from Planned Parenthood. The money that Susan G. Komen has provided to Planned Parenthood in the past five years has provided nearly 170,000 clinical breast exams and 6,400 mammogram referrals. The Komen Foundation's decision to divest from Planned Parenthood clearly is not in the best interests of women, tens of thousands of whom rely on the breast cancer prevention care provided by Planned Parenthood. We are deeply disturbed by the fact that the Komen Foundation has clearly bowed to political pressures and put ideology before women's health. For the sake of women across the country, we hope that the Komen Foundation reconsiders this unwise, counterproductive decision.

Sincerely,

Priti Rao
Executive Director
MA Women's Political Caucus

The Role of Millenials in the Workplace

2011-12-14T11:25:00.000-05:00

Young Professionals - this one's for you! The Baby Boomer generation is moving out of the workforce and there are not enough Gen Xers to fill their spots leaving the Millenial generation to fill the work force. MWPC's Board Member Lauren Rikleen of the Rikleen Institute for Strategic Leadership sets the record straight on this generation and it's role in the workplace.

http://www.forbes.com/sites/danschawbel/2011/12/13/the-expanding-roles-of-millennials-in-the-workplace/

MA Treasurer Steve Grossman Celebrates Women's Equality Day

2011-08-26T14:24:00.000-04:00

GROSSMAN MARKS WOMEN’S EQUALITY DAY, ANNIVERSARY OF VOTING RIGHTS

Pledges to Continue His Drive to Expand Opportunities for Women in the Workplace

Highlighting the 91^st anniversary of the 19^th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution that gave women the right to vote, Treasurer Steven Grossman today pledged to continue his efforts to expand opportunities for women in the workplace.

“In my private sector career and in public office, I have witnessed firsthand the tremendous leadership role that women play in a well-run, effective organization,” said Grossman. “We are a much better community because of the dynamic presence and contributions of women in the workplace, and Women’s Equality Day gives us an opportunity to reflect on our progress in the past and our significant goals for the future.”

At the Treasury, Grossman has appointed a number of women to senior leadership positions, including First Deputy Treasurer Katherine Craven, Chief of Staff Kathryn Burton, and Director of Legislative Affairs Barbara L’Italien. Noting their meaningful contributions, the Treasurer said that these individuals have helped shape public policy and have been an integral part of an effective management team.

Grossman has also created programs and initiatives to increase business opportunities for women. The newly created Small Business Banking Partnership, which deposits Treasury cash reserves in Massachusetts community banks to leverage loans to credit-worthy small businesses, has a component encouraging banks to lend to women-owned enterprises. The Treasurer noted that a ceremony today designating the Public Garden Swan Boats as a historic Boston landmark taps into the sentiment behind the Partnership, as one of the original Swan Boat operators, Julia Paget, had to overcome significant obstacles to be granted permission to run a women-owned enterprise in the 1870s.

“Julia Paget was all-too-familiar with the unreasonable barriers that confronted women of her time from owning and operating a successful business. Today, it is both imperative and economically beneficial that we find ways to make capital more available to credit-worthy, women-owned companies, and the Small Business Banking Partnership does just that,” said Grossman.

Under Grossman’s leadership, the Pension Reserves Investment Management (PRIM) Board, which he chairs, recently implemented new proxy voting guidelines covering stock holdings of the Commonwealth’s pension fund aimed at promoting the inclusion of more women in the corporate boardroom and in the executive suite. Grossman emphasized that the overall goal of enhancing shareholder value should also reflect the values of the people of Massachusetts.

MWPC Commends Joint Committee on Redistricting on Efforts for a Just, Transparent Process

2011-08-17T13:32:00.000-04:00

State House News reports that on Monday, Representative Michael Moran (D-Brighton), House Chair of the Joint Committee on Redistricting, began his second round of sit-down meetings with all members of the MA House of Representatives, thereby fulfilling the promise he made at the outset of the redistricting process to meet with each member of the House at least twice before presenting any final district maps.

In the same piece, Representative Moran states that maintaining the majority-minority status of districts in the Boston area is a top priority of the Committee. With significant population shifts throughout neighborhoods, such as Dorchester and Mattapan, this is certainly no easy or enviable task. However, given the numerous sit-down meetings Chairman Moran and Chairman Rosenberg (D-Amherst), of the Senate, have had with constituents and interest groups, the public hearings the Committee has held throughout the state, and these meetings with elected officials, it is apparent that this Redistricting Committee is deliberating carefully about where to draw lines this fall.

This public outreach and involvement also shows a distinct commitment to transparency in this process, which is crucial for drawing lines in a just way that accounts for minority representation.

As an organization dedicated to increasing the political empowerment of women of color, the MA Women's Political Caucus commends the Redistricting Committee on its earnest efforts to make the redistricting process a transparent one and for its efforts to maintain the majority-minority districts.

Massachusetts Women's Political Caucus Applauds the Efforts of Those Involved in an Act Relative to Safe Harbor for Exploited Children

2011-06-01T16:22:00.000-04:00

The Massachusetts Women's Political Caucus (MWPC) applauds the efforts of all those involved in today's unanimous passage of the Act Relative to Safe Harbor for Exploited Children in the House of Representatives. In particular, we would like to extend our sincere gratitude to Representative Martin Walsh, Representative Liz Malia, and District Attorney Dan Conley for filing this bill; Attorney General Martha Coakley for her unwavering and outspoken support; all of the bill's co-sponsors; and Speaker Robert DeLeo and the House for voting in favor.

In cases of human trafficking, young girls and women are often held against their will and forced into prostitution and, as a result, often develop drug habits and other self-destructive behaviors, end up in violent and abusive situations, and suffer psychological damage. Massachusetts is currently one of just four states that does not have any anti-human-trafficking legislation on the books. As a result, victims of this crime have been treated as criminals rather than victims. Once such legislation is passed, the Attorney General will be able to prosecute trafficking crimes and the victims can receive the just treatment, rehabilitation, and rights they deserve. This bill has been a very long time in the making and MWPC praises the Massachusetts House of Representatives for taking this first step towards justice for these exploited young women.

MWPC Board Members in the News

2011-05-31T14:29:00.000-04:00

What We're Reading: excellent Globe article highlighting the amazing work the Germaine Lawrence school does to help young women and girls with histories of abuse. We thank Germaine Lawrence and our Board President Pam Nourse, who is the Director of Institutional Development, for all of the great work they do to make a difference in the lives of women within the Commonwealth.

Victims, Not Delinquents
Yvonne Abraham
Boston Globe May 29, 2011
http://articles.boston.com/2011-05-29/news/29601465_1_aya-bodies-arlington

New Legislation Seeks to Curb Political Influence in Hiring Process

2011-05-20T11:53:00.000-04:00

Yesterday, the MA Senate unanimously passed a bill that would curb political influence in the state hiring process for the Probation Department just over a week after the House passed a similar bill.

The Massachusetts Women's Political Caucus extends our sincere gratitude to Senate President Therese Murray, Speaker of the House Robert DeLeo, Governor Patrick and everyone involved in the creation of this new legislation. Such legislation is important to the status of women in government and public policy in Massachusetts as it will help break through the networks of political influence that have proven a major barrier to women increasing their numbers in those positions. We look forward to the beginning of a more transparent hiring process and the equity that it will bring.

Senate Tackles State Job Patronage
Noah Bierman, The Boston Globe May 20, 2011

MWPC Celebrates the Preservation of Title X & Funding for Planned Parenthood

2011-04-15T12:57:00.000-04:00

Yesterday’s Congressional vote to preserve funding to Planned Parenthood and other family planning programs marked a critical affirmation of the rights of women across the nation.

The measure passed the House but failed in the Senate in a vote 58-42. Had this measure passed, low-income and uninsured women would have been denied access to crucial affordable services, such as HIV and STD tests, cervical and breast cancer screenings, and contraception. Furthermore, elimination of Title X funding would have cost the government $3.4 billion a year in other expenses; it would not have saved the government money or diminished the deficit.

As a nonpartisan organization dedicated to the rights of women, it was extremely alarming to us to witness the amount of mistruths that were incorporated into the rhetoric surrounding this debate. It is quite clear that this was not an issue of budget balancing but rather the promotion of political agendas. We applaud the dedicated efforts of all those who worked to promote the facts in this struggle – your work was crucial to the outcome of that vote.

We also want to extend our sincere gratitude to those members of the MA delegation who voted to preserve Title X funding, particularly those who were committed to its preservation all along. We would specifically like to thank Senator John Kerry, Representative Niki Tsongas and Representative Michael Capuano, who have been very outspoken on this issue.

This vote sends a very clear message to our Nation’s leaders: political battles cannot and will not be fought at the expense of the health, well-being, and fundamental rights of women.

MWPC Stands with Planned Parenthood. Do You?

2011-04-12T16:50:00.001-04:00

As an organization devoted to the rights and equality of women, the MA Women’s Political Caucus is shocked and appalled at the recent assault on Planned Parenthood and Title X by certain members of Congress and political commentators who are using this opportunity to push a political agenda. This fight is not about budget balancing. The health and well-being of millions of American women are being compromised for political gain. One of the most disturbing developments arising from this fight are the false assertions being propagated by those who are opposed to Planned Parenthood. Contrary to those assertions, Planned Parenthood provides essential services that benefit millions of women.

MWPC sets the record straight and calls you to action to preserve the rights and health of American women and their families.

Assertion: Government money is being used by Planned Parenthood to fund abortions.

Fact: The majority of what Planned Parenthood provides are medical screenings and procedures critical to the health and well-being of women as well as men. Those services include testing for HIV and sexually transmitted diseases, screenings for cervical and breast cancer, routine gynecological exams, HPV vaccines, contraceptives, and prescription of birth control medications. Cutting these services would dramatically increase the number of unintended pregnancies and abortions and cost the federal government billions of dollars more in other social services annually.

Assertion: “Only hookers go to Planned Parenthood.” - Glenn Beck

Fact: In Massachusetts in 2009, Planned Parenthood provided services to 69, 654 patients, of which 87% were women and 13% were men. Of those MA patients, 96% were well below the federal poverty level and earned less than $27,000 annually. Without the free and low-cost services provided by Planned Parenthood, these patients would not be able to receive the treatment and care they need.

Assertion: Cutting Title X funding would save the federal government money.

Fact: For every dollar spent on family planning programs, the government saves $4 on other social services. In light of this, it is categorically untrue to state that cutting Title X funding for Planned Parenthood would save the federal government money. On the contrary, cutting Title X funding would actually cost the government money. For example, in 2008 Title X funded contraceptive programs helped America women avoid 973,000 unintended pregnancies of which 432, 600 would have resulted in unintended births and 406, 200 abortions. Avoiding these unintended pregnancies saved the federal government approximately $5.1 billion.

Title X programs provide critical services, such as contraception, cancer screenings, and STD testing, to over 5 million American women a year. Funding cuts to Planned Parenthood would have disproportionate adverse effects on low income women who depend on Planned Parenthood to receive critical medical care and treatment. To cut that funding, partially or completely, would leave millions of American women without reproductive healthcare. This is not a social issue; it is a human issue.

We at the MWPC stand with Planned Parenthood and urge you to contact your elected officials to tell them that you stand with Planned Parenthood and ask that they do too.

MWPC Honors a Trailblazer: Geraldine Ferraro

2011-03-29T16:20:00.000-04:00

Teacher, congresswoman, advocate, vice-presidential candidate, assistant district attorney, ambassador - regardless of the job she was doing, Geraldine Ferraro will be forever remembered for her greatest role: trailblazer for women everywhere.

Long before her historic run for the vice presidency, Geraldine Ferraro was breaking down barriers as a role model for women everywhere on many different levels. While working as a school teacher and raising three children, she simultaneously earned a law degree and entered into a field at that time overwhelmingly dominated by men. She then worked her way from lawyer to assistant district attorney and head of the Special Victims Unit, where she became a powerful advocate for abused children.

As a three-term U.S. Representative, Ambassador Ferraro quickly assumed a leadership role and earned the respect of her male peers. As a Representative, she worked to break down the barriers to equality for women, for example, by co-sponsoring the 1981 Economic Equity Act.

In 1984, she made history as the first woman to run for the vice presidency on a major party ticket. As the first woman to run for this high office, Ambassador Ferraro faced many obstacles and challenges. She responded with dignity, class, and intelligence.

As a new generation of women rise to meet the challenges of this century, the significance of her life’s work and what she stood for will forever be a beacon of strength as we carry forth the work yet to be done. In her words, “campaigns, even if you lose them, do serve a purpose… my candidacy has said the days of discrimination are numbered. American women will never be second-class citizens again.”

Ferraro’s breakthrough opened the doors for women to achieve success for the next two decades. Condoleeza Rice, Madeline Albright, Hilary Clinton, and many other outstanding women can all thank this trailblazer for clearing the path to their achievement.

The Massachusetts Women’s Political Caucus mourns the loss of this great pioneer for women and celebrates the progress she made possible for so many women to succeed. Her spirit will forever inspire countless future successes to come.

Former Governor Weld Urges Congress to Preserve Family Planning

2011-03-25T10:06:00.002-04:00

In a powerful Op Ed in the Boston Herald, former Good Guys Honoree Governor Bill Weld urges Congress to preserve family planning programs: http://www.bostonherald.com/news/opinion/op_ed/view.bg?articleid=1325922

Board Members in the News

2011-03-17T12:16:00.000-04:00

Click below to read an excellent article about the status of diversity in general counsel positions by Board Member and President of the Rikleen Institute for Strategic Leadership, Lauren Stiller Rikleen:

http://blogs.forbes.com/shenegotiates/2011/03/14/general-cou nsel-can-transfo rm-the-legal-profession/

MWPC Honors 2011's Good Guys

2011-03-10T16:10:00.001-05:00

Friday March 4, 2011 marked the MWPC’s 10^th Annual Good Guys Awards, honoring 5 outstanding gentlemen who are dedicated to achieving equality for women across all realms of society. It was a terrific lunch and an exciting ceremony enjoyed by all. This year’s honorees, like all our past honorees, have proven a stand-out bunch.

In case you missed it, here’s the scoop:

Local television and radio host Jim Braude presided as emcee over an enthusiastic crowd, kept the audience engaged and even found time to make a pitch for his own Good Guys Award!. True to form, he kept the event entertaining and flowing smoothly and we were thrilled to have him back again.

This year, the Massachusetts Women’s Political Caucus installed the first ever Distinguished Public Service Award in honor of Senator Edward W. Brooke. A Republican from Massachusetts, Senator Brooke became the nation’s first popularly-elected African American United States Senator as well as the nation’s first state Attorney General. He was instrumental in the passage of landmark legislation that has brought women to where we are today: Title IX of the 1972 Education Act, the 1968 Fair Housing Act, and the Equal Credit Act to name a few. He also supported the strengthening of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, allowing Medicaid insurance to cover abortions, and has long been an advocate for the rights of gays and lesbians.

While Senator Brooke himself was unable to attend the awards in person, he was honored with a beautiful video tribute and recorded a moving acceptance speech. We’d bet a Tiffany’s Good Guys Award there wasn’t an uninspired soul in the room!

The third annual Senator Edward M. Kennedy Lifetime Achievement Award was given to MA Senate Majority Leader Frederick E. Berry. In his fourteen-term career he has increased protections for victims of domestic violence and eased the healthcare burden on women and their families. He has also worked ceaselessly to protect children from abuse and to advocate for children with disabilities, using his own experience with cerebral palsy to improve their lives.

Senate President Therese Murray delivered a delightful award presentation and, surrounded by friends, family, and devoted staff, Senator Berry accepted his award with gratitude and a sparkling sense of humor.

Keeping the momentum up, UMass Boston Chancellor J. Keith Motley presented a stirring speech to resounding applause and a standing ovation after accepting his award for his indispensable work to support educational opportunities for women and underprivileged youth.

CEO of the Boston Foundation Paul S. Grogan, was honored for utilizing the Foundation’s resources to advance the interests of women, from housing programs to educational opportunities to job training programs.

Finally, Attorney Stephen M. Weiner of Mintz, Levin, Cohn, Ferris, Glovsky, and Popeo Health Law Practice was honored as a phenomenal mentor to women in the healthcare and legal fields. Now he can add being an all-around Good Guy to his list of accolades as one of the nation’s best lawyers.

Thank you to each one of our honorees for your devotion and hard work in achieving equality for women. Your selflessness and service have made a difference in the lives of thousands of women and you have more than earned the title of “Good Guys.” Congratulations!

All proceeds from the event went to the MWPC Education Fund, which finances programs that provide valuable skills and resources to women looking to enter politics or public policy. Among those programs are an annual campaign skills training, the MassGAP initiative to increase the number of women in high-level appointed positions (www.massgap.org), the Commonwealth Commentary series, the Speakers Bureau, and our internship program (http://www.mwpc.org/get/internships.php).

Thank you to everyone who contributed to making the event a success: To all of our Board Members, our interns and volunteers, all of the elected officials and guests, our award presenters, and to our generous sponsors – we could not have done it without you.

A special thanks to those involved in the production of the Senator Brooke tribute video: Joyce Ferriabough-Bolling for producing the piece, GJ Nelson, Kim Tran, Priti Rao, Jessica Gibbons, Marissa Szabo– thank you for your devotion, input, creativity, and passion.

Finally, we also must extend a special thanks to our fabulous emcee Jim Braude who helped keep the event entertaining and running smoothly!

For more information on MWPC and our events, please visit www.mwpc.org. We look forward to seeing you at our next event!

Women legislators say more support for female candidates needed

2010-09-13T10:50:00.000-04:00

September 12, 2010 08:05 PM
By Sarah Schweitzer, Globe Staff

MARLBOROUGH - Senior women legislators fanned out across the region today in support of freshmen female representatives facing election challenges, saying the push was particularly significant in this 90th anniversary year of the 19th Amendment, which gave women the right to vote.

"The whole point of supporting other women is to make sure that they feel they are supported and that they can run for office, " said Patricia Haddad, a Somerset Democrat who is the assistant majority whip of the House.

Traveling in a bus that shuttled them from Hudson, Marlborough, Framingham and Bellingham, the women held a roundtable discussion and stood on street corners and at rotaries holding signs for the candidates, smiling and waving at passing motorists.

For the women, the electoral push comes at a time when women's toehold in the Legislature -- they hold 26 percent of the 200 seats -- is threatened by a wave of women leaving office. There are six women departing the House and three women the Senate. In one of those districts -- that of state Senator Joan Menard of Fall River -- no woman is running for the open seat.

The departures leave open the possibility that the Legislature could see a net loss of women -- a change that would mark a comedown from 2009, when women made up the largest percentage of incoming freshman in recent memory. Women also hold a record number of leadership positions, serving as committee chairs and vice-chairs, as well as members of the speaker's leadership team, according to Haddad.

Massachusetts lags behind a number of other states in its percentage of female state legislators. According to the National Conference of State Legislators, New Hampshire claims the largest contingent, with 37.3 percent of its Legislative members female. Next up is Vermont with 37.2, Colorado with 37 percent and Minnesota with 34.8 percent.

In Massachusetts, as of 1979, only 7.5 percent of legislators were women. By the late 1990s, women had grown to be a quarter of legislators -- but since then, that figure has remained virtually unchanged, according to the Center for Women in Politics and Public Policy at UMass Boston.

"We are not where we would want to be in terms of equal representation," said Priti Rao, director of the Massachusetts Women's Political Caucus. She noted that women make up 51 percent of the state's population.

As part of a push to increase female representation, Rao said that in the anniversary year of the 19th Amendment, a push will be on to involve women in the political process.

"Women supporting women is how we get to equal representation," she said. "Women worked really hard for the privilege so we want to make sure that women are exercising their right."

Rao noted that a major hurdle in getting more women elected in Massachusetts lies in persuading more women to run. That task is difficult because women who are just as qualified as men are often more reluctant to run for office, Rao said. On average, she said, women have to be asked seven times by seven different people before making the decision to run, Rao said.

"They often feel that they are not ready," she said.

Haddad said she often hears from young women that they feel torn between running for office and tending to families.

"We haven't broken that barrier yet," she said.

Yet, at the same time, women, too, have greater access to campaign funding with their growing professional connections, said Representative Alice Wolf, of Cambridge.

"It's gotten a lot easier for them to raise money," she said as she stood on a Marlborough street corner holding a sign for Danielle Gregoire, one of the freshmen legislators facing a challenger in November.

Statement from the MWPC Regarding Senator Brown's Opposition to Elena Kagan

2010-08-06T11:56:00.005-04:00

We are disappointed that Senator Scott Brown has chosen to oppose Elena Kagan for appointment to the U.S. Supreme Court, even as Ms. Kagan is receiving support by many of Senator Brown's Republican colleagues.

Ms. Kagan has contributed her legal expertise to two Presidents, clerked for Justice Thurgood Marshall, served as a distinguished law professor and Dean of Harvard Law School, and is uniquely qualified for this position.

Early on, the Caucus urged President Obama to support the appointment of a woman to fill the Supreme Court seat being vacated by Justice Stevens. We are proud the Senate has move forward in confirming Elena Kagan as the fourth woman in history to sit on the Supreme Court of the United States.

Suzanne Bump Breakfast Event

2010-07-29T11:50:00.015-04:00

A big THANK YOU to everyone who came out and made this event a great success!

The MWPC PAC is proud to support prominent women to elected offices. We had a great turnout at our event! Join the MWPC PAC in continuous support of our women candidates: click below to donate to our PAC and to read more about Suzanne Bump for State Auditor.

Donate to MWPC PAC Now

Suzanne Bump for State Auditor

WOMEN for Suzanne Bump cordially invite you
to a breakfast fundraiser for

SUZANNE BUMP Candidate for State Auditor
The University of Massachusetts Club
225 Franklin Street, Boston, MA
33rd Floor
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
7:30 A.M. - 9:00 A.M.

www.suzannebump.com

(Suzanne is a Clean Election Candidate and Qualifies for Matching Funds.
Your Contribution, Up to $250, Will Be Matched)

Honorary Event Chair, Shannon O'Brien along with
Massachusetts Women's Political Caucus PAC

Host Committee
Alona Abalos
Laura Ackerman
Jennifer Armini
Frances Burke
Sheila Capone-Wulsin
Joyce Ferriabough-Bolling
Mary Fifield
Karen Grant
Carolynn Jones
Andrea Kramer
Patricia Lynch
Rosanne Bacon Meade
Natasha Perez
Priti Rao
Lauren Stiller Rikleen
Dorothy Turrell
Louise Venden

Please join us for a conversation with Suzanne Bump about the challenges facing Massachusetts women and families in these tough economic times and the best ways for government and the private sector to meet them going forward.

Further information on Suzanne:

As a former Secretary of Labor and Workforce Development in the Patrick administration, Bump worked to ensure that the concerns of working families during the recession were addressed. Now she is running for State Auditor to bring greater transparency and accountability to this critically important office.

Bump, a former state representative and selectman from Braintree, hopes to succeed outgoing Auditor Joseph DeNucci. In addition to her previous government service, she has held leadership roles in the private sector. Bump was an assistant vice president at the American Insurance Association, and vice president in government relations for Citigroup. As House chairwoman of the Commerce and Labor panel in the early 1990s, Bump helped oversee the development of worker's compensation reform. She is a committed progressive activist in Massachusetts who came out of political retirement in 2006 to co-chair Deval Patrick's campaign for Governor.

For recent news on the campaign please visit:

http://www.boston.com/news/local/massachusetts/articles/2010/06/06/patrick_rallies_party_calls_out_gop/?page=2

http://www.suzannebump.com/campaign-updates/massachusetts-women%E2%80%99s-political-caucus-pac-endorses-suzanne-bump-for-state-auditor/

Empower Peace

2010-07-29T11:24:00.002-04:00

You're invited...

Dear Friends,

As the Executive Director of the Massachusetts Women's Political Caucus I'd like to invite you to the 5th Annual Empower Peace Women2Women International Leadership Reception, an event that will welcome international female leaders to the city of Boston. Founded in 2006, by MWPC's Former Good Guys honoree, Rick Rendon, the Women2Women program builds connections between young women in the United States and those in the Arab world.

The leadership skills, cultural competency, and network of peers provided through the program enables these young women to make a difference in their communities. This event serves as part of Empower Peace, an organization which aims to bridge cultural and communication divides between international youths. Please join us in supporting this outstanding organization. I hope to see you on August 5th!

Best,
Priti Rao
MWPC Executive Director

Women2Women Reception for
Empower Peace

Please join Rick Rendon, The Rendon Group
and Empower Peace as we welcome over 100 young women leaders
from over 20 countries to
Boston, USA!

Thursday, August 5, 2010
5:30 pm to 7:30 pm

The State Room
60 State Street, 33rd Floor
Boston, Massachusetts

Refreshments will be provided

To R.S.V.P. contact Kristin Wagner at
kwagner@empowerpeace.org or call 617-912-3834

Suggested Donations:
Help Sponsor One Delegate: $75.00
Help Sponsor Two Delegates: $150.00
Make Check Payable to

Empower Peace
Donations are Tax Deductible. Empower Peace is a 501(c)3 non-profit
organization

Event Honorees

Torch Bearer Awards:
Joan Menard, State Senator, Majority Whip
Martha Coakley, Massachusetts Attorney General
Andrea Cabral, Sheriff, Suffolk County

Special Guests:
Therese Murray, President, Massachusetts State Senate
Niki Tsongas, United States Congresswomen

A Women's Night Out: Kelly Tynan

2010-07-28T16:15:00.006-04:00

Upcoming Event: Commonwealth Commentary

2010-06-17T15:01:00.000-04:00

Come join the Massachusetts Women's Political Caucus, this Tuesday, June 22nd for the Commonwealth Commentary: Election Strategies in 2010.

This election season boasts the most competitive legislative races in MA history and more competition from both parties than ever before. Join us as the Chairs of the MA Democratic Party and MA GOP discuss the political climate, their big picture strategy, and what they need to do to help their candidates win.

The event will be moderated by Janet Wu, WCVB-TV's NewsCenter 5 State House reporter and Co-Host of "On the Record." Panelists will include John Walsh, MA Democratic Party Chairman and Jennifer Nassour, MA GOP Chairwoman.

REGISTER

Tuesday, June 22nd, 2010
7:30-9:00 am

Fairmont Copley Plaza Hotel
138 St. James Avenue
Boston, MA 02116

$25 for individual ticket
$400 Table Sponsorships

Presented by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts

PRITI RAO NAMED NEW EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE MASSACHUSETTS WOMEN’S POLITICAL CAUCUS

2010-04-27T15:34:00.000-04:00

Boston, MA- The Massachusetts Women’s Political Caucus (MWPC) announced the appointment of Priti Rao as its new Executive Director. Rao previously served as the organization's Associate Director and most recently as Acting Executive Director.

"On behalf of the Board of Directors of the MWPC, I am proud to announce the appointment of Priti Rao as our new Executive Director,” said MWPC Board President, Lora Pellegrini. “Priti came to work for us as our first-ever Representative Deborah Blumer intern. As Associate Director and Acting Executive Director, she has been integrally involved in all of our successful initiatives designed to help women win elected and appointed office. She brings the kind of energy, commitment, and top-flight campaign skills critical to our goal of supporting a new generation of women seeking political opportunity. Priti’s rise from intern to executive director is a source of great pride for our organization because it epitomizes MWPC’s ongoing and fundamental role in supporting and mentoring women political leaders.”

Rao is a Cum Laude graduate of Mount Holyoke College, where she majored in Politics and Spanish. She has coordinated field activities for Congressional and City Council races in New York. Here in Massachusetts she worked in the successful campaign of Congresswoman Niki Tsongas, the first woman elected to Congress in 25 years.

As Acting Executive Director and Associate Director, Rao worked to design and execute strategic political and field support that helped fuel the successful election of 5 MWPC endorsed women to the MA House of Representatives in 2008, and the 2009 election of Ayanna Pressley to the Boston City Council, the first woman of color ever to serve on the Council in its 100 year history.

“I'm thrilled to have the opportunity to continue working with the outstanding and dedicated MWPC board and its membership to advance our important mission,” said Rao. “We’re excited about the 2010 elections and the excellent women candidates who have made the commitment to run for public office despite the challenges. As Executive Director, I look forward to working to maintain and expand the number of women in elected and appointed office and in other leadership roles here in the Commonwealth. I will work to support initiatives that serve to ensure greater equality for women and families and expanding the reach of the MWPC to include men and women of all ages, races, and party affiliations in order to bring together a strong coalition of supporters committed to continuing to advocate for women’s political parity at all levels of government."

About the MWPC
Founded in 1971, the Massachusetts Women Political Caucus is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit, multi-partisan organization that works to increase the number of women elected and appointed to public office and public policy positions and to increase the involvement of women of all ages in the political process. Our Educational Fund provides campaign skills training, legislative workshops, an internship program, and an informational resources program designed to give women the skills they need for effective political and public policy participation.
Follow us on http://twitter.com/MWPC and join our group on Facebook.
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Commonwealth Commentary: Why Women Run Recap

2010-04-16T14:32:00.000-04:00

More than 70 guests attended the Massachusetts Women Political Caucus’ (MWPC) first Commonwealth Commentary of 2010 at Boston Omni Parker House on Wednesday, April14. Moderated by NewsCenter 5 political reporter Janet Wu, the discussion focused on why women run for office and featured two prominent women politicians, Representative (11th District) Karyn Polito (R) and Suzanne Bump (D), Former Secretary of Labor for the Commonwealth. Both women are running for state-wide public office in the 2010 election cycle, Bump for Auditor and Polito for Treasurer. MWPC Vice-President, Pam Nourse, welcomed attendees and thanked sponsors Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts, UMass-Boston Center for Women in Politics and Public Policy, and Karyn Polito.

Noting that two women, Sarah Palin and Senate President Therese Murray dominated the front page of both local papers that morning, moderator Wu said it was a sign of the times that would have been unheard of when she began her career as a reporter more than 30 years ago. The two candidates joined Wu in a candid discussion of their reasons for seeking elected office and the challenges they faced.

Responding to the question of what she felt was her greatest challenge in her first run for statewide office, Bump mentioned the overall political climate, particularly Martha Coakley’s loss and the fact that so much money was generated and spent on that race, making fundraising more difficult especially for women running in “down ballot” races. Polito agreed and in expanding on the fundraising difficulties that women face, she said men are much more generous to men candidates than women are to fellow women candidates. “We must support each other!” Polito declared.

Polito was asked if she thought Senator Scott Brown’s election might have a snowball effect by creating the kind of momentum that might open the doors for more Republican women to run for, and finally win, a statewide seat. Polito responded that she felt the important thing that came out of Brown’s election, for anyone running for office, was that it underscored a change in Massachusetts’ political climate, and spurred a greater involvement in the electoral process. Asked by an audience member how they planned to build on that mantra of change considering that both women served as elected officials; both candidates said they felt confident that their records would show that they were independent thinkers and dedicated public servants who first and foremost worked for, and answered to, the people they were elected to represent. Both said another challenge for them was educating people about what the offices of Treasurer and State Auditor did so voters could see the many different opportunities that the offices offered.

Wu asked the audience of mostly young professionals if anyone was interested in running for office. Several hands went up. Probing deeper, as is her trademark, Wu asked one of the respondents what motivated her to decide she wanted to run. She responded that many in her generation felt that just getting a political degree wasn’t enough to effectively take what they had learned to the next level, but direct involvement, and developing skills as an advocate or being elected to office, gave her the greatest opportunity to make a real difference. Acting MWPC Executive Director Priti Rao called attention to the importance of MWPC as a vehicle for just that kind of involvement and asked attendees to volunteer their time to MWPC to help continue to give women running for political office the tools and support they needed to effectively compete.

Spotted in the crowd: Karen Payne, former head of the NAACP, currently running for the seat vacated by Representative Willie Mae Allen; legendary activist family members Gladys Vega and her daughter, City Councilor Madelyn Vega, from Chelsea, Carol Fanta-Hardy and Donna Stewartson, of UMass-Boston Center for Women in Politics and Public Policy, who proudly pointed out CWPP graduate Christina Knowles, who now serves as the new State Director of Massachusetts National Organization for Women (NOW).

MWPC Urges President Obama to replace retiring Justice Stevens by appointing a woman

2010-04-09T16:39:00.000-04:00

- MWPC calls Justice Stevens a true advocate for women’s rights and making the appointment of a woman to succeed him a continuation of a legacy for equal opportunity -

Boston, MA- The Massachusetts Women Political Caucus (MWPC) recognizes Justice John Paul Stevens contributions to the ongoing struggle for gender parity and equal rights for women. We wish him and his family health and happiness in retirement.

Justice Stevens spent his distinguished career as a jurist championing the rights of the individual. He was strong liberal voice for civil rights and equality for all Americans including women. He upheld a woman’s right to choose and dissolved restrictions to exercising that right in 1992 Planned Parenthood v. Casey. Since 1975, Justice Stevens has been a reliable and steadfast voice for the principles of social justice in American society.

In 2008, women comprised more than 51% of the U.S. population, more than 30% of lawyers, more than 29% of judges sitting on federal courts of appeal, and more than 25% of U.S. district court judges. In contrast, only two women, out of nine total justices, are currently seated on the U.S. Supreme Court and only three women have served in its 220-year history.

The MWPC respects the fact that there are several outstanding women jurists in consideration for this seat. We call on President Obama, his administration, and the United States Senate to consider the unique perspective that the appointment of more women to the nation’s highest court will bring, and urge President Obama to use this rare opportunity to promote gender parity and equal participation in all levels of government

Massachusetts Women's Political Caucus PAC Endorses Simmons, Harkins in State Senate Special Elections

2010-03-30T12:27:00.000-04:00

BOSTON, MA-The Massachusetts Women's Political Caucus PAC has endorsed State Representative Lida Harkins and Cambridge City Councilor Denise Simmons in the April 13th special primary elections for the Massachusetts State Senate. Rep. Harkins seeks to represent the Norfolk, Bristol & Middlesex district previously held by U.S. Senator Scott Brown. Councilor Simmons seeks to represent the Middlesex, Suffolk & Essex district previously held by Former Senator Anthony Galluccio. The general elections for both seats will be held on May 11th.

"Both Rep. Harkins and Councilor Simmons are great candidates for State Senate, and we are proud to support them," stated MWPC PAC Co-Chair, Pam Nourse. "Their dedication to supporting equality and fairness for women and their families is unparalleled. Rep. Harkins has proven herself a committed public servant with a strong track record of service delivery that has improved the quality of life for working families. Councilor Simmons, a former school committee member and current small business owner, brings a diverse base of experience and support as well as a commitment to enhancing public education and ensuring that small business owners are at the table during these challenging economic times."

"I am especially gratified to receive this endorsement because of our shared commitment to issues that affect women", said Representative Harkins. "I look forward to working with the MWPC during this campaign and in the future."

Rep. Harkins has been a Needham resident for 38 years and is Chair of the Needham Democratic Town Committee. She has proven herself a strong supporter of issues concerning women throughout her career in public service. During her tenure at the State House, Harkins has been devoted to improving public education, advancing equal rights for women and minorities, and advocating for strengthened relations with labor conditions. Harkins has also spoken in support of a statewide network of health care workers for in-home elderly care, and has worked for a relief in property tax for seniors.

"The MWPC is a wonderful organization and I am delighted to receive their endorsement," said Councilor Simmons. "As the only woman in my race, the support of an outstanding, well respected women's organization will be a great asset to my campaign."

Denise Simmons is a life-long Cambridge resident and former Mayor of Cambridge. She is currently serving her fifth year as Cambridge City Councilor. Her ten years on the Cambridge School Committee and her time as a small business owner give her the experience to guide her constituents through these tough economic times. Councilor Simmons has worked to diversify involvement in civic life. As a woman, African-American, and member of the GLBT community, Simmons strives to ensure that every constituency group is given a strong voice in state government.

MASSACHUSETTS WOMEN’S POLITICAL CAUCUS SPONSORS 9th ANNUAL "GOOD GUY" AWARDS

2010-02-22T18:01:00.000-05:00

More than 350 guests are expected to salute the honored guests at the 9th annual Mass Women's Political Caucus, Good Guy Awards.

This year’s Good Guy Awards honorees include Massachusetts House Speaker Robert A. DeLeo; Essex County Sheriff Frank G. Cousins, Jr.; Rick Rendon, President and Founder of Empower Peace; and, Gregory Torres, President of MassINC. United States Senator John Kerry will receive the Edward M. Kennedy Lifetime Achievement Award.

Local television and radio host Jim Braude will serve as Master of Ceremonies for the event.

The Good Guy Awards recognize men who have demonstrated an ongoing commitment and partnership in the struggle for women’s equality. They recognize that the goal of attaining parity in politics and equality in American society can only be reached through the concerted efforts of both men and women in all areas of professional and personal life.

Good Guy honorees come from all fields and backgrounds. The MWPC seeks to honor a diverse group of men, all of whom have been dedicated to strengthening the position of women in all sectors of society.

“The Good Guy Awards are one of our most prestigious events,” said Lora Pellegrini, Board President for the Massachusetts Women’s Political Caucus. “It is a chance for us to recognize some outstanding men in the community who are making a difference in women’s lives through the work they do. These year’s honorees are particularly impressive. On behalf of the board, I am very grateful for the support of Comcast, our Presenting Sponsor and all of our contributing sponsors and host committee members who make this event such a success year after year.”

Previous Good Guy recipients include the late Senator Edward M. Kennedy, and Robert M. Coard, former Governors William F. Weld and Argeo Paul Cellucci, Peter Meade, James Roosevelt, Jr., Thomas P. O’Neill, III, Wayne Budd, Charlie Baker and Ralph Martin, to name a few.

Individual tickets to this year’s event are $125 apiece. Proceeds are used to fund the programs of the Massachusetts Women’s Political Caucus Education Fund, and all donations are tax deductible.

Media inquiries, including biographical information and head shots, and requests for additional ticket information can be directed to Priti Rao, Executive Director of the Massachusetts Women’s Political Caucus, at (617) 451-9294 or priti@mwpc.org.

MWPC Annual Meeting - Photos

2010-02-02T09:53:00.000-05:00

Last night, MWPC held its 20th Annual Meeting in Boston, sponsored by the Simmons Institute for Leadership and Change.

The meeting started with opening remarks by Associate Director Priti Rao and an annual report by MWPC Board President Lora Pellegrini. Then, members heard a spirited keynote address by Ayanna Pressley, Boston City Councillor At Large.

MWPC PAC's "Inside Look at the 2009 & 2010 Elections" A Huge Success

2010-01-21T23:33:00.000-05:00

On January 21, MWPC's PAC sponsored "An Inside Look at the 2009 and 2010 Elections: From Capitol Hill to Beacon Hill." The event was a huge success.

A large crowd of attendees packed the conference center at O'Neill and Associates to hear from our panel of experts and to learn more about their opinions on recent and upcoming political contests. For many, it was their first chance for an in-depth discussion about what happened in the recent US Senate race and what it means for future races.

Panelists included David Bernstein and Adam Reilly of the Boston Phoenix, Andy Hiller of WHDH Channel 7, Julie Mehegan of the Boston Herald, and Joan Vennochi of the Boston Globe. The panel was moderated by Elaine Kamarck of the Kennedy School.

Special thanks to our moderator and panelists, as well as O'Neill and Associates for hosting the event. Special thanks also go to our Host Committee of Andrea Kramer, Joyce Ferriabough-Bolling, Lora Pellegrini and Pam Nourse; our Sponsors, Alona Abalos, Ann Murphy and Deirdre Savage; and, our Contributors, Mary Ryan and Jeff Ross.

MWPC PAC: Vote for Martha Coakley Today!

2010-01-19T07:03:00.000-05:00

Today is election day!

Today, we will choose the candidate we want to fill the seat occupied by the late Senator Ted Kennedy.

The MWPC PAC has been hard at work for the NWPC PAC endorsed candidate, Attorney General Martha Coakley. This election is enormously important, and the stakes are too high to sit on the sidelines.

We urge you to get out and vote. Polls will be open from 7am to 8pm. If you're not sure of where to vote, please visit www.wheredoivotema.com.

Please do what you can to elect Martha Coakley to the U.S. Senate! Our next Senator will be a critical voice and vote on health care reform, the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, the economy and social justice and our civil liberties. Every vote counts. Talk to your friends and family and make sure they know what's at stake.

Thank you again for all your help and support. Please get out and vote!

Join MWPC for an Inside Look at 2009 and 2010 Elections

2010-01-18T15:19:00.000-05:00

MWPC's Lauren Stiller Rikleen on NECN

2010-01-14T09:59:00.000-05:00

Lauren Stiller Rikleen, member of the MWPC Board of Directors joined host Jim Braude on NECN's "Broadside" last night to discuss the US Senate race. In particular, they discussed issues about women's health and its role in the campaign.

Check out the great video below!

MWPC Press Conference Supporting Coakley on Choice

2010-01-12T17:12:00.000-05:00

At a press conference today, Massachusetts’ leading advocacy organizations for women’s reproductive rights denounced Republican Scott Brown’s poor record on a woman’s right to choose. The organizations, including the Planned Parenthood of Massachusetts, NARAL Pro-Choice Massachusetts, the Massachusetts Women’s Political Caucus and the Massachusetts Chapter of the National Organization for Women, criticized Brown’s long record of opposition to policies that promote choice and privacy rights. The organizations highlighted Martha Coakley’s strong support of a woman’s right to choose.

The organizations blasted Scott Brown’s previously proposed legislation that, if it had passed, would have allowed hospital emergency rooms to deny emergency contraception to victims of rape. This callous approach to reproductive rights led the anti-choice Massachusetts Citizens for Life (MCFL) to endorse Scott Brown. MCFL wrote on its blog, “Our PAC has been supporting Scott Brown because he will be a pro-life vote in the Senate.”

The organizations also criticized Brown for denying the severe impact of his legislation on victims of rape in yesterday’s debate hosted by the Kennedy Institute. During the debate, Coakley repeatedly pressed Brown to acknowledge that his legislation would have allowed hospitals to deny emergency contraception to victims of rape, which he attempted to deny. Brown was simply wrong.

“Scott Brown demonstrated in last night’s debate the lengths to which he will go to mislead the voters about his record,” said Andrea Miller, Executive Director of NARAL Pro-Choice Massachusetts. “He has repeatedly shown his willingness to compromise for political gain the health and well-being of some of the most vulnerable women in Massachusetts, including victims of sexual assault. Massachusetts needs a United States Senator who will be honest about his or her record and who will stand up every single day in defense of our rights, including a woman’s right to choose. Martha Coakley has been a true and steadfast champion for choice throughout her career.”

“Scott Brown is simply not telling the truth about his record -- and, even worse, he's not telling the truth about the impact his legislation would have on victims of sexual assault,” said Pam Nourse, Vice President of the Massachusetts Women’s Political Caucus Board of Directors. “Scott Brown is endorsed by anti-choice groups like Massachusetts Citizens for Life because of his co-sponsorship of waiting periods for abortions, and his record of supporting legislation that would allow hospitals to turn away rape victims seeking emergency contraception. There is no way Scott Brown can honestly call himself a defender of a woman’s right to choose. Martha Coakley is the candidate in this race who will protect and defend a woman’s right to choose. The National Women’s Political Caucus is proud to support Martha Coakley to be our next United States Senator.”

“Scott Brown says that victims of rape should just get back in the car and drive to another hospital,” said Christina Knowles, State Director for the Massachusetts Chapter of the National Organization for Women. “Legislation he filed would have denied rape victims access to emergency contraception at numerous hospitals across Massachusetts. His legislative record shows a deep lack of understanding of women’s health issues and an enormous lack of empathy for what victims of rape are going through. Throughout her career, Martha Coakley has been a staunch defender of fundamental democratic principles like equality and freedom of choice. We are confident that Martha will continue to defend these essential principles in Washington.”

“With many health care battles still to be fought and with a closely divided Supreme Court, who Massachusetts elects to the U.S. Senate on January 19 will have an impact that is felt nationally and felt for years to come,” said Dianne Luby of Planned Parenthood of Massachusetts. “It is baffling to hear Scott Brown paint himself as a supporter of women's reproductive health. The amendment he filed in 2005 to the Emergency Contraception Bill would have forced rape survivors to travel from hospital to hospital seeking emergency contraception. That certainly doesn't feel supportive."

The four groups strongly criticized Brown’s record regarding critical health services for women:

Brown was the lead sponsor of a legislative amendment in 2005 that would have allowed hospital emergency rooms to deny emergency contraception to victims of rape.
Brown has co-sponsored the so-called Women’s Right to Know Bill, legislation that would impose a mandatory delay before a woman can obtain an abortion. This legislation is supported by Massachusetts Citizens for Life, an organization that has endorsed Brown for United States Senate.
Brown recently filed legislation that, if enacted, would allow the removal of previously
mandated insurance coverage for a wide array of health services, including critical health care for women. Among the women’s health services that his bill would allow to be removed as mandated coverage are mammograms, minimum maternity stays for new mothers, and screenings (pap smears) to detect, among other possible conditions, cervical cancer at an early, treatable stage.
Brown opposes national health care reform that includes many benefits for women, such as ending denials by insurance companies to women who have had a Caesarean section or who suffered domestic abuse under the premise that they were “pre-existing conditions.”

Since 1972, NARAL Pro-Choice Massachusetts has been a leading force advocating to protect privacy and promote reproductive health. Mobilizing its 20,000 members across the Commonwealth, NARAL Pro-Choice Massachusetts uses the political process to guarantee every woman the right to make personal decisions regarding the full range of reproductive choices.

Planned Parenthood seeks to protect and promote sexual and reproductive health and freedom of choice by providing clinical services, education and advocacy.

The Massachusetts Women’s Political Caucus is a multipartisan organization founded in 1971 to maximize the participation of women of all ages in the political process and to increase the number of women appointed and elected to public office and public policy positions.

Massachusetts NOW is the state affiliate of the National Organization for Women, which is the largest and oldest multi-issue, multi-strategy feminist organization in the country. Massachusetts NOW embraces a comprehensive approach to securing women's rights, and seeks to obtain full equality for women and girls in all aspects of life.

MWPC Annual Meeting on February 1st

2010-01-11T17:38:00.000-05:00

The Massachusetts Women's Political Caucus will be holding our Annual Meeting on February 1st, 2010 at Simmons College in the Linda K. Paresky Conference Center from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. The featured speaker will be Ayanna Pressley, Boston City Councillor At Large. We hope to see you there!

MWPC Election Panel Discussion January 21

2010-01-11T14:12:00.000-05:00

Please join the Massachusetts Women's Political Caucus January 21st at 6PM for an in-depth analysis of the recent elections, from municipal seats to the Senate race.

Don't miss our engaging panel discussion moderated by the Harvard Kennedy School's Elaine Kamarck with WHDH TV's Andy Hiller, NECN's Alison King, the Boston Herald's Julie Mehegan and the Boston Globe's Joan Vennochi.

The event will be held at the offices of O'Neill and Associates, 31 New Chardon Street, Boston. We hope to see you there! If you have any questions or to confirm your attendance, please contact Melissa Roberts, Program Coordinator at 617-451-9294 or melissa@mwpc.org.

Sheila Capone-Wulsin talks about health care on NECN

2009-12-23T06:26:00.001-05:00

Sheila Capone-Wulsin appeared on NECN last night to discuss the status of health care reform, including provisions in the House and Senate proposals relating to abortion.

Check out the video below!

Congratulations to NWPC PAC endorsed candidate Martha Coakley

2009-12-09T12:03:00.000-05:00

MWPC PAC would like to congratulate Martha Coakley on her extremely impressive 19-point victory last night in the Democratic primary to fill Senator Kennedy's vacant US Senate seat.

MWPC members were busy helping to support Coakley's candidacy all day yesterday, including the MWPC Young Professionals, who were phone banking all last night.

Check out some of the pictures of us "in the field" below.

Election Day is Today!

2009-12-08T07:08:00.000-05:00

Today is Election Day here in Massachusetts.

December 8 is the date set for the primary in the January 19, 2010 special election to fill the vacancy in Senator Edward Kennedy's seat in the United States Senate.

MWPC's PAC has proudly joined the NWPC PAC in their endorsement of Attorney General Martha Coakley in this race, and we encourage all MWPC members to do everything they can to support her.

If you have some time today to volunteer, please let us know. You can call Sheila Capone-Wulsin (617) 451-9294 to find out more about opportunities.

Sheila was quoted in an editorial by Margery Eagan today, talking about the role of women in the race. You can read more about her comments here.

But most importantly, please remember to get out and vote today!

Please join us TONIGHT for our Holiday Party!

2009-12-03T06:23:00.000-05:00

Please RSVP to priti@mwpc.org.

In the News

2009-11-19T11:56:00.000-05:00

Joan Vennochi has a very interesting column about women and the federal health care bill in the Boston Globe today. The first two lines sum up her thoughts pretty well: "Women must always fight to make sure they are not thrown under the political bus. The latest example is health care reform."

http://www.boston.com/bostonglobe/editorial_opinion/oped/articles/2009/11/19/taking_a_hit_on_health_care_why_thats_womens_work/

The Women for Coakley Web site also has an interesting speech by Evelyn Murphy, which is a great read. Murphy talks about the fact that the language the press uses regarding candidates on the subject of toughness and strength holds them up to stereotypical male standards, and that women are every bit as strong, just in different ways.

http://www.womenforcoakley.com/2009/11/18/evelyn-murphy-on-coakleybig-and-loud-no-strong-absolutely/

As always, these stories show exactly how important it is for us to continue our mission at MWPC to make sure the voices of women are heard in the political dialogue.

Letter to the Editor Praises Coakley

2009-11-16T21:38:00.000-05:00

Today, the Boston Herald contained a letter to the editor from MWPC Executive Director Sheila Capone-Wulsin.

The letter praised U.S. Senate candidate Martha Coakley for her courage, character and principles in saying that she would vote against the health care bill for its restriction of funding for reproductive services.

Attorney General Coakley is endorsed by the NWPC PAC.

To read the full letter, please click below:

http://www.bostonherald.com/news/opinion/letters/view/20091116coakley_shows_courage/

MWPC Exec. Dir. Sheila Capone-Wulsin on NECN

2009-11-12T18:03:00.000-05:00

MWPC Executive Director Sheila Capone-Wulsin appeared on NECN's "BroadSide" with host Chet Curtis last night.

The topic was Martha Coakley's position that she would vote against a health reform bill if it limits access to abortion coverage. MWPC endorsed that view in a statement earlier this week.

Also joining Curtis is former Mass. State Senator Lois Pines, a supporter of Michael Capuano in the Senate contest.

Please click here to watch the video:

http://www.necn.com/Boston/Politics/2009/11/11/Broadside-Race-for-Senate/1257984965.html

Bernstein and Chabot Speak at Commonwealth Commentary Breakfast

2009-11-06T16:03:00.000-05:00

This morning, MWPC sponsored another of its "Commonwealth Commentary" breakfast series events at the Harvard Club of Boston.

The Commonwealth Commentary breakfasts are presented by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Massachusetts and provide participants with an opportunity to network and to hear first hand from some of the most influential and notable faces in Massachusetts politics.

The theme of this morning's discussion was "City Elections 2009 - An Insider's Analysis." The featured keynote speakers were David Bernstein of The Boston Phoenix and Hillary Chabot of The Boston Herald.

Prompted by questions from MWPC Board President Lora Pellegrini, both speakers discussed the outcome of recent elections across Massachusetts, including the race for Mayor of the City of Boston and several other municipal races. Bernstein and Chabot also spoke about the current political landscape on Beacon Hill and their expectations for upcoming races for United States Senate and Governor of the Commonwealth.

The question and answer session that followed allowed MWPC supporters the chance to speak directly with the featured speakers and to get their thoughts on subjects such as media coverage of women candidates in statewide races.

Additional speakers included Sheila Capone-Wulsin, MWPC Executive Director, and Jay Curley, Senior Vice President of Public, Government and Regulatory Affairs for Blue Cross Blue Shield of MA.

Prior to the event a moment of silence was held in honor of Robert Coard, who passed away earlier this week. Mr. Coard was the head of ABCD and he also was recognized by MWPC at its annual Good Guy awards last year.

Those in attendance also paused to recognize Sandy Pressley, mother of Boston City Councilor-elect Ayanna Pressley. Ayanna Pressley's candidacy was proudly endorsed by the MWPC PAC and on Tuesday, Pressley became only the third woman -- and the first woman of color -- ever to serve on the city council. Congratulations, Ayanna!

Globe Endorses Ruth Balser for Mayor of Newton

2009-11-02T06:50:00.000-05:00

Congratulations to State Representative Ruth Balser, who today picked up the endorsement of the Boston Globe in the race to be the next Mayor of Newton.

Ruth Balser also is proudly endorsed by the MWPC PAC. It was our first municipal endorsement ever.

For those who do not already know her, Ruth Balser is a lifelong resident of Newton and she has spent more than 20 years as a public servant, serving as a Newton Alderman and now as a legislator in her sixth term. She has been an active member of her sons' PTOs, as well as civic, political and religious organizations.

A total of 32 men have served as mayor in Newton, which is one of the largest cities in Massachusetts. We're working hard to make sure the next mayor is Ruth Balser. On June 7, a number of us attended a special event in Newton to announce our endorsement and to show our support.

For more information on Ruth Balser and her candidacy, or to see how you can volunteer on Election Day, please visit: http://www.ruthformayor.com/.

In The News Today

2009-10-30T10:55:00.000-04:00

As supporters of MWPC's mission, there are some stories in today's papers that we thought you might be interested in...

Check out today's Boston Globe, which includes a great editorial endorsing Ayanna Pressley for an at-large seat on the Boston City Council. Ayanna's candidacy is proudly endorsed by the MWPC PAC. If elected, she would be only the third woman -- and the first woman of color -- ever to serve on the city council. Congratulations, Ayanna!
There is also a distressing op-ed in the Boston Globe about how abortion rights are being slowly eroded here in Massachusetts due to a lack of facilities willing to offer abortion procedures. In particular, there is a controversy in Brookline where residents are trying to block the opening of an abortion clinic due to concern over protests. It's an interesting column and well worth the time to read.
Another concerning article in the Boston Globe shows that we may be going backwards in terms of advancement of women in high-profile positions in Massachusetts businesses.

These articles show how the role of MWPC is just as necessary now as when we first got started.

Congresswoman Niki Tsongas Endorses Martha Coakley With Support From MWPC

2009-10-28T19:12:00.000-04:00

We are thrilled to report that Congresswoman Niki Tsongas has formally endorsed Attorney General Martha Coakley for the United States Senate.

The endorsement was announced earlier today at an event in Lowell, which was attended by AG Coakley and also by MWPC Executive Director Sheila Capone-Wulsin and Pam Nourse, MWPC Board Vice-President and Co-Chair of the MWPC PAC.

MWPC played an important role in the election of Niki Tsongas to Congress a few years ago, and we are still proud to support her as the only female member of the Massachusetts congressional delegation. It’s especially gratifying to stand beside her again now as she, in turn, lends her support to Martha Coakley in her bid for the United States Senate.

Candidates who are endorsed by the MWPC PAC get a wide range of useful support, including resources, access to our network of contacts and experience of professionals who have been working in and around political campaigns for years. It’s one of the things we do best, and it’s all in support of our basic mission to promote the participation and involvement of women of all ages in the political process.

Congratulations to Martha Coakley for a Great Debate

2009-10-28T19:03:00.001-04:00

MWPC congratulates Attorney General Martha Coakley for a command performance in Monday night’s debate of candidates for the United States Senate.

Coakley was extremely impressive as she demonstrated a deep knowledge of all the issues and distinguished herself as a capable and experienced candidate through her responses to the many questions posed by debate moderator Peter Meade.

Then again, we expected nothing less. After all, Martha Coakley and her candidacy are strongly endorsed by the NWPC PAC. In fact, we were so excited about the debate that we sponsored a special Debate Watching Party at our offices in Boston. It was fantastic for those in attendance to have the opportunity to join together and watch such an inspiring showing from our candidate.

We’re proud of Martha Coakley’s performance, and we’re proud to be joining the NWPC PAC in endorsing her candidacy. We can’t wait to watch the next debate.

For more information about Martha Coakley’s candidacy, please visit http://www.marthacoakley.com/.

"Commonwealth Commentary" Event on November 6

2009-10-28T16:00:00.002-04:00

On Friday, November 6, MWPC will be sponsoring the next in its series of Commonwealth Commentary breakfasts.
The event will take place at the Harvard Club of Boston, which is located at 374 Commonwealth Avenue, Boston, and it will run from 7:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m.

Special guests speakers will include newspaper reporters David Bernstein of the Boston Phoenix and Hillary Chabot of the Boston Herald, who will offer their insights into the current political landscape here in Massachusetts and the role of women.

Individual tickets to the event are $25 apiece. Table sponsorships (which include signage and a program listing) are $500.

For more information or to purchase tickets, please visit our Web page at http://www.mwpc.org/program/commonwealth_commentary_reg.htm.

MWPC Special Edition Newsletter is Available Online

2009-10-28T16:00:00.000-04:00

Are you interested in reading more about what MWPC is up to? Would you like to see photos of our latest Tribute to Abigail Adams awards event?
Check out our latest newsletter, which is available online.

Click here to read more.

Election Day is November 3

2009-10-28T15:59:00.001-04:00

Election Day is less than a week away and candidates endorsed by the MWPC PAC need your help to win.

The MWPC PAC has endorsed State Representative Ruth Balser in her race to become the 33rd Mayor -- and the first female Mayor-- of Newton. Ruth is a lifelong resident of Newton and she has spent more than 20 years as a public servant, serving as a Newton Alderman and now as a legislator in her sixth term. She has been an active member of her sons' PTOs, as well as civic, political and religious organizations.

In Boston, our PAC has endorsed Ayanna Pressley for an at-large seat on the Boston City Council. Many of us are familiar with her exemplary, collaborative approach and can-do style in connecting the residents of Boston and the state to resources and services, as an aide to former Congressman Joseph Kennedy and Senator John Kerry. She also served as a former board member of MWPC and she is a Wonder Woman Award recipient. Ayanna would be the first woman of color ever to serve and only the third woman elected at-large in the Council's 100 year history.

For more information on Ruth Balser and her candidacy, please visit: http://www.ruthformayor.com/. For more information on Ayanna Pressley her candidacy, please visit http://www.ayannapressley.com/.

We're looking for volunteers to help us out on these campaigns! Can you assist us? If you can help in any way, please send an e-mail to Priti Rao at priti@mwpc.org or call (617) 451-9294.

22nd Annual Abigail Adams Awards a Huge Success

2009-10-01T11:41:00.000-04:00

Last night, the Mass. Women's Political Caucus hosted its 22nd Annual Tribute to Abigail Adams awards ceremony and dinner at the Fairmont Copley Hotel in Boston.

The evening's distinguished honorees included Attorney General Martha Coakley, Senator Joan Menard, Lt. Gov. Kerry Healey, Dolores Mitchell, Susan Windham-Bannister, Marie A. Turley and Michelle Keating (who received the Abigail Adams Jane M. Swift Public Service Award).

Welcome messages and acknowledgements were provided by Bruce Bullen, CEO of Harvard Pilgrim Health Care (which was Presenting Sponsor of the event), and Lora Pellegrini, MWPC Board President. Chris Matthews, host of MSNBC's Hardball, was Master of Ceremonies. Sheila Capone-Wulsin, MWPC Executive Director, presented closing remarks and also recognized members of the MWPC Board and Priti Rao, MWPC Associate Director, for their efforts. Thanks also were given to James Roosevelt, Jr. and Daniel B. Winslow, Esq. for serving as co-chairs of the Host Committee.

Governor Deval Patrick, Senate President Therese Murray, House Speaker Robert DeLeo, Boston Mayor Thomas Menino, and many other elected officials, corporate sponsors, award presenters and distinguished guests also were in attendance.

MWPC extends its congratulations to all of the honorees, and also its special thanks to the hundreds of people in attendance last night, and to everyone else who helped to make the evening a huge success!

Please check back here and on our Web site, http://www.mwpc.org/, as we post photos of the event soon.

MWPC PAC Joins National Women's Political Caucus in Endorsing Martha Coakley for US Senate

2009-09-30T14:13:00.000-04:00

The Massachusetts Women’s Political Caucus PAC announced today that it has joined the National Women’s Political Caucus in endorsing Massachusetts Attorney General Martha Coakley to be the next United States Senator from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

Coakley is running for the Democratic nomination to fill the seat left vacant by former Senator Edward M. Kennedy, who passed away in August. If elected, she would be the first Massachusetts woman ever to serve in the United States Senate.

A special election is scheduled for January 19, 2010, with a primary election on December 8, 2009.

“Throughout her career, Martha Coakley has distinguished herself as a highly-capable, dedicated and thoughtful public servant,” said Sheila Capone-Wulsin, Executive Director of the Massachusetts Women’s Political Caucus. “We at the Massachusetts Women’s Political Caucus are pleased to have our PAC join the National Women’s Political Caucus in endorsing her to be the first woman ever elected to the United States Senate from Massachusetts. We have full confidence that she will carry on Senator Kennedy’s long legacy of being a consistent and vocal advocate for women's equality.”

Before being elected Massachusetts Attorney General, Coakley served eight years as Middlesex District Attorney, bringing justice to crime victims and their families and emphasizing the importance of working with community leaders, schools, and law enforcement in a variety of diverse and multi-faceted prevention efforts. She has been involved in a number of community and professional organizations, including the Women's Bar Association of Massachusetts and the Board of Directors at the Dana Farber Cancer Institute.

The endorsement was announced at a press event held at the Fairmont Copley Hotel in Boston earlier today, which included MWPC Executive Director Sheila Capone-Wulsin, Senate President Therese Murray, EMILY's List President Ellen Malcolm, and numerous female legislators from across Massachusetts. You can see more photos of the event by clicking the link below.

New England Cable News 9.30.2009

Martha Coakley picks up key endorsements in Senate race

MWPC Executive Director Sheila Capone-Wulsin

Senate President Therese Murray

EMILY's List President Ellen Malcolm

Attorney General Martha Coakley

Press Conference at the Fairmont Copley Hotel

22nd Annual Abigail Adams Awards on Sept. 30

2009-09-24T12:35:00.000-04:00

Chris Matthews, host of MSNBC's "Hardball," will serve as Emcee for the 22nd Annual Tribute to Abigail Adams Awards sponsored by the Massachusetts Women's Political Caucus.

The Massachusetts Women's Political Caucus introduced the Tribute to Abigail Adams in 1988. Award recipients are women who have demonstrated through their work and/or their community activism an outstanding commitment to the realization of equal political, economic, and social rights for women.

This year's honorees include Massachusetts Attorney General Martha Coakley; Massachusetts Senate Assistant Majority Leader Joan Menard; former Massachusetts Lieutenant Governor Kerry Healey; and Boston Women's Commission Executive Director Marie Turley. The Abigail Adams/Jane M. Swift Commitment to Public Service Award also will be presented to Michelle Keating, President and Chief Executive Office of Alder Foods. Other distinguished honorees also will be recognized for their accomplishments and achievements.

A dinner and awards ceremony honoring the recipients will be held Wednesday, September 30, 2009 at the Fairmont Copley Plaza Hotel in Boston. A reception will begin at 6 p.m. with a dinner and awards ceremony to follow at 7 p.m. The event is open to members of the press.

Proceeds from the event will benefit the MWPC Education Fund, a 501c(3) non-profit organization. All donations are tax deductible.

The Massachusetts Women's Political Caucus is a multipartisan organization that promotes the participation and involvement of women of all ages in the political process. The organization was founded in 1971 for the purpose of increasing the number of women elected and appointed to public office and public policy positions.

Born in Weymouth, MA in 1744, Abigail Adams was one of the earliest women's advocates with strong beliefs in equal political, economic, and social rights for women. Abigail was the wife of our nation's second President, John Adams, and the mother of six children.

Background information on award recipients follows below:

DOLORES MITCHELL is the executive director of the Group Insurance Commission, the state agency that provides life, health, disability, dental and vision services to more than 300,000 state and municipal employees, retirees and their dependents. She has been in that position since 1987, serving in the administrations of Governors Dukakis, Weld, Cellucci, Swift, Romney, and now Governor Patrick.

Mrs. Mitchell serves on a number of professional and community organizations, including the Massachusetts Health Data Consortium, of which she is a Director, and the Greater Boston Big Sister Association, of which she is Board Chairman.

Mrs. Mitchell is a frequent speaker on health care, politics, women's career issues, and related subjects.

KERRY HEALEY has been a life-long advocate for women in Massachusetts and all over the world. As Lieutenant Governor of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts from 2003-2007, she successfully increased penalties and supervision for sex offenders, as well as increased protections for victims of child abuse, sexual assault and domestic violence.

Healey is currently working on the executive committee for the Public-Private Partnership for Justice Reform in Afghanistan. In September 2008, Healey served as chair of the "core" committee for The Afghan Women Lawyers' Training and Empowerment Conference being held in California in January 2009 and visited Afghanistan in October 2008.

Healey graduated from Harvard College in 1982, and was awarded a Rotary International Scholarship. She earned a Ph.D. in political science and law from Trinity College in Dublin, Ireland.

MARTHA COAKLEY has dedicated the last 20 years of her life to a career in public service.

Before being elected Massachusetts Attorney General, Coakley served eight years as Middlesex District Attorney, bringing justice to crime victims and their families and emphasizing the importance of working with community leaders, schools, and law enforcement in a variety of diverse and multi-faceted prevention efforts.

Coakley has been involved in a number of community and professional organizations, including the Women's Bar Association of Massachusetts and the Board of Directors at the Dana Farber Cancer Institute.

Martha Coakley received a B.A. degree, cum laude, from Williams College in 1975, and a J.D. degree from the Boston University School of Law in 1979.

MICHELLE J. KEATING is owner, president and CEO of Alder Foods, Inc. She joined the company in 1998 as Vice President of Marketing. Under her leadership, Alder Foods has become one of the top 30 companies selling worldwide to the Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA).

Michelle's concern for and commitment to our United States service members and their families continues to be an integral part of Alder Foods. Her support of The Fisher House Foundation has led her to take on the role of fundraising chair for the new construction of the Fisher House Boston, which is slated to open in 2010. Fisher Houses are comfort homes specially designed to house and support the families of our veterans while their loved one is recovering at military medical centers.

SUSAN WINDHAM-BANNISTER is president and CEO of the Massachusetts Life Sciences Center. Previously, she served as Managing Vice President of the Commercial Strategy Group for Abt Bio-Pharma Solutions Inc. and a founding member of the commercial division of its parent company, Abt Associates.

Dr. Windham-Bannister was President of her class at Wellesley College and is active at Wellesley College with mentoring and career development for future women leaders. She is a member of LINKS, which is a service organization of African-American women focused on service projects for women, such as scholarships for young women who are having trouble paying for school. She is a former Board Member for YMCA of Greater Boston, where she was inducted into their academy of women achievers, and she served as member of the Board of the Center for Women and Aging at Brandeis University.

Dr. Windham-Bannister holds a B.A. from Wellesley College, a doctorate in health policy and management from the Heller School at Brandeis University, and was a post-doctoral fellow at Harvard University's John F. Kennedy School. She completed her doctoral work under a fellowship from the Ford Foundation.

Congratulations to Ayanna Pressley

2009-09-23T10:53:00.000-04:00

Congratulations to Ayanna Pressley, who earned a spot on the November 3 general election ballot for one of four at-large seats on the Boston City Council.

Our PAC endorsed Ayanna Pressley this summer, and a number of us had a great time supporting her out in the field yesterday.

Many of us are familiar with Ayanna's exemplary, collaborative approach and can-do style in connecting the residents of Boston and the state to resources and services, as an Aide to former Congressman Joseph Kennedy and Senator John Kerry. She also served as a former board member of MWPC and she is a Wonder Woman Award recipient.

Ayanna will not only bring new leadership and new vision to the office, but she also brings proven, problem solving qualities and a life-long dedication to public service that will translate to even greater service to the families of Boston during these most challenging times. In addition, she would be the first woman of color ever to serve and only the third woman elected at-large in the Council's 100 year history.

For more information on Ayanna Pressley her candidacy, please visit http://www.ayannapressley.com/. And if you are looking for opportunities to help her campaign or any other candidate we've endorsed, please contact our office at (617) 451-9294.

Good News for MWPC-Endorsed Candidates Pressley, Balser

2009-09-16T15:32:00.000-04:00

MWPC would like to congratulate State Representative Ruth Balser for topping the ticket in the City of Newton's preliminary election for Mayor yesterday. Balser is trying to become the first female mayor in the city's history.

You can read about Balser's impressive showing in a story in today's Boston Herald.

MWPC also would like to congratulate Ayanna Pressley on picking up the Boston Herald's endorsement for an at-large seat on the Boston City Council. The preliminary election is on September 22, and is slated to narrow down a wide list of candidates to 8 contestants vying for 4 seats in the general election.

The MWPC PAC is proud to have endorsed both candidates this year. Way to go!

Sheila Capone-Wulsin in The Hill

2009-09-13T16:43:00.000-04:00

MWPC Executive Director Sheila Capone-Wulsin was quoted in The Hill on Saturday, talking about Martha Coakley's candidacy in the special election to fill Senator Kennedy's vacant seat in the United States Senate.

Click here to read the full article.

Abigail Adams Awards - Sept. 30

2009-09-11T12:30:00.000-04:00

22nd Annual Tribute to Abigail Adams Awards

September 30, 2009
Fairmont Copley Plaza Hotel, Boston

6:00pm – 7:00pm Reception
7:00pm – 8:00pm Dinner and Awards Ceremony

This year, we will be honoring these exceptional women:

- Attorney General Martha Coakley
- Senator Joan Menard (Assistant Majority Leader )
- Lt. Governor Kerry Healey
- Marie A. Turley (Executive Director, Boston Women’s Commission )
- Jane M. Swift Commitment to Public Service Award presented to
Michelle Keating (President & CEO, Alder Foods)

...and other Distinguished Honorees!

Please click on the following links for additional information:

The Massachusetts Women’s Political Caucus introduced the Tribute to Abigail Adams in 1988 to recognize six Massachusetts women leaders. Award recipients are women who have demonstrated through their work and/or their community activism an outstanding commitment to the realization of equal political, economic, and social rights for women. The proceeds benefit the MWPC Education Fund a 501c(3) non-profit organization. All donations are tax deductible.

As part of the Abigail Adams event the Massachusetts Women’s Political Caucus has also established two additional awards. The MWPC created the Dolores L. Mitchell Lifetime Achievement Award to honor her for being one of the MWPC's founders and current Board Members. This Award was presented to Teresa Heinz Kerry in 2003. In 2002 the MWPC honored Governor Jane M. Swift with the creation of a new award in her honor, the Jane M. Swift Commitment to Public Service Award.

Born in Weymouth, MA in 1744, Abigail Adams was one of the earliest women’s advocates with strong beliefs in equal political, economic, and social rights for women. Abigail was the wife of our nation’s second President, John Adams, and the mother of six children.

MWPC Mourns Loss of Senator Kennedy

2009-09-10T16:42:00.000-04:00

August 26th was a solemn day in the long struggle for women's equality.

On that day, Massachusetts lost Senator Edward M. Kennedy, who was a consistent and vocal advocate for women's equality through the years.

That day also marked the 28th annual Women's Equality Day. Women's Equality Day was first established in 1971 by Rep. Bella Abzug as a way to commemorate the ratification of the 19th Amendment to the Constitution in 1920, which gave women across the country the right to vote.

MWPC took time on the 26th to honor the sacrifice and commitment of the original Suffragettes who made that day possible, including people like Susan B. Anthony and Elizabeth Cady Stanton.

We also joined together several days later to remember Senator Kennedy and his years of work on behalf of women in the U.S. Senate. A number of MWPC staff members, friends and supporters held signs along the motorcade for his funeral cortege, expressing messages of thanks and appreciation for all of his efforts.

Boston Globe endorses Balser for mayor of Newton

2009-09-10T12:37:00.000-04:00

Earlier today, the Boston Globe endorsed state Representative Ruth Balser for mayor of Newton in the preliminary election to be held on Tuesday.

You can read the full endorsement editorial here.

Ruth Balser was proudly endorsed by the MWPC PAC earlier this year. It was our first municipal endorsement ever. Ruth is a lifelong resident of Newton and she has spent more than 20 years as a public servant, serving as a Newton Alderman and now as a legislator in her sixth term. She has been an active member of her sons' PTOs, as well as civic, political and religious organizations.

A total of 32 men have served as mayor in Newton, which is one of the largest cities in Massachusetts. We're working hard to make sure the next mayor is Ruth Balser. On June 7, a number of us attended a special event in Newton to announce our endorsement and to show our support.

For more information on Ruth Balser and her candidacy, please visit:http://www.ruthformayor.com/.

Sheila Capone-Wulsin in Politico

2009-09-10T12:32:00.001-04:00

MWPC Executive Director Sheila Capone-Wulsin was quoted in Politico today, talking about the role women will play in the special election to fill Senator Kennedy's vacant seat in the United States Senate.

Click here to read the full article.

Welcome to our blog.

2009-09-10T12:14:00.000-04:00

Thank you for visiting the Massachusetts Women's Political Caucus blog.

The Massachusetts Women's Political Caucus is a multipartisan organization that promotes the participation and involvement of women of all ages in the political process. The organization was founded in 1971 for the purpose of increasing the number of women elected and appointed to public office and public policy positions.

This blog gives us an opportunity to share news and updates with you on a frequent basis. Please check back often for new information. Please also be sure to visit our Web page, www.mwpc.org