Running and Winning Workshop Gives Girls Opportunity to Meet Women in Politics
The second annual Running and Winning workshop gave 36 Westchester high school girls the chance to meet and talk with 16 women elected officials and learn what it means to run for office and work for the interests of the people of Westchester.
The workshop was sponsored by the League of Women Voters of Westchester, the American Association of University Women of Westchester, and the YWCA of Central Westchester, which provided the location. The Westchester Community Foundation provided funding.
The elected officials began the workshop by telling how they got involved in politics, often coming from a strong desire to solve a critical community problem. The girls then asked probing questions about the women’s experiences, and heard answers stressing the importance of just doing the work in front of one and of being authentic and thereby winning people’s respect. They learned from several office holders that helping other people is very rewarding.
The girls then developed their own campaigns around environmental issues, a challenge requiring teamwork, organizing and public speaking. Their campaigns offered creative action at the community level to improve our environment through cleaning up water, recycling many items, using alternate energy, and others. The girls presented their campaigns in rousing speeches that illustrated their enthusiasm and ability to think creatively.
They also learned how the officials approach raising money in an ethical and respectful way, even though they are uncomfortable with it. One office holder quoted Eleanor Roosevelt, “Do one thing every day that scares you.” The girls also received practical suggestions about how to get involved in politics and build their skills – volunteer for candidates you respect.
“Running and Winning” addressed the growing awareness of the need for more girls and women to develop their unique leadership potential. Women, 50.8 percent of the population, now make up only 20 percent of the U.S. Senate and 17.9 percent of the House. There are only nine women governors and 11 lieutenant governors. In 2012, women held 23.7 percent of the 7,382 state legislative seats. In 2013, New York State has one woman U.S. Senator, and six Congressional representatives.
Adam has worked in the local news industry for the past two decades in Westchester County and the broader Hudson Valley. Read more from Adam’s author bio here.