WPCNR Distaff Dispatch by County Legislator Bill Ryan, District 5. February 4, 2013:
During recent county budget negotiations, many of you offered your thoughts about vital county programs and services. Women in particular focused on safe, affordable childcare and access to essential health and mental health services. One of the strongest voices advocating on behalf of families, women and children was the Westchester Women’s Agenda. Their input has always been very helpful to me, not only during budget season, but throughout the year.
It has come to my attention that the Westchester Women’s Agenda is conducting a first-ever Women’s Summit to address key issues in their continuing advocacy work on behalf of women. I’m writing as one of their supporters to urge you to participate in this upcoming Summit.
Women throughout Westchester are invited to gather at the Yonkers Riverfront Library on Saturday, March 2 at 8:30 a.m. to confront the issues concerning women—economic development, housing and homeless prevention, violence against women, health and mental health services, children’s services, civil and criminal legal services, and immigration. The goal is to engage women in creating a stronger, more just, and more open and equal Westchester.
The event’s keynote speaker is the Rev. Noelle Damico of White Plains (one of my constituents I’m proud to say) who serves as the Associate for Fair Food within the Presbyterian Church’s Hunger Program and she coordinates the PC (USA) campaign for Fair Food. A sought-after speaker and educator, Reverend Damico has confronted head on human trafficking issues and writes and speaks on the church’s role in advancing a human rights-based approach to addressing modern-day slavery.
As part of the program you’ll have an opportunity to participate in break-out sessions in key issue areas, where your group will discuss specific challenges and decide on priorities for action.
Once again, you’re invited. You’re thoughts and ideas are needed. Registration is free, but you must register to attend. Tickets are limited. You can register online at: westwomenssummit.eventbrite.com.
For more information on the event or becoming a member of Westchester Women’s Agenda contact: Sheila Klatzky, WWA Summit Coordinator, Email: srklatzky@gmail.com, Phone: (914) 683-8221.
