Women’s Legislative Briefing Topic: Empowered Women Protect Democracy’

MONTGOMERY COUNTY, MD — The Montgomery County Commission for Women will host its 43rd Annual Women’s Legislative Briefing virtually from 12:30 to 5 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 29. The theme of this year’s event is “Empowered Women Protect Democracy.”

The annual event brings together advocates, allies, policymakers and emerging leaders to empower, engage and mobilize Marylanders around issues affecting women and girls. Attendees will hear from, and engage with, members of the Maryland General Assembly, community leaders and representatives of organizations that advance the status of women and girls.

The opening session, “Women Who Empower Through Advocacy,” will include Adrianna Hopkins, a news anchor from WJLA ABC 7. She will serve as the moderator of a panel that includes:

• Virginia Kase Solomón, CEO, League of Women Voters
• DeAnna Hoskins, CEO, JustLeadershipUSA
• Susan Jin Davis, Social Impact Officer, Al Roker Entertainment

Their national viewpoints will offer perspective on how empowerment looks throughout the United States and how advocacy can lead to a career in many fields.

“This year’s Women’s Legislative Briefing theme is ‘Empowered Women Defend Democracy.’ This important message comes at a crucial time as we encourage civic action to support solutions and protections for issues affecting women and girls,” said County Executive Marc Elrich in a news release. “We know that empowered women can change laws, policies and represent us in office. Last year, Montgomery County voters elected its first-ever female majority to our County Council and I look forward to serving the next four years with all of these new members. Together, along with the Women’s Commission, we are going to ensure that Montgomery County is a place where all women and girls can be supported and thrive.”

Following the opening panel discussion, attendees may participate in breakout sessions focused on how empowered women and girls can influence critical legislation and policies to protect, access and secure women’s right to health care, public safety, economic justice and education.

An important component of the briefing is the emerging leaders sessions for middle and high schoolers. The interactive workshops focus on civic engagement and pathways to leadership for young women and men. This year’s topics include “Feeling Safe Everywhere: Home, School, Community” and “How to Express My Mental Health.”

Students may earn up to three Student Service Learning hours by participating in the program.

To participate in the Women’s Legislative Briefing, register at the WLB website.

For more information, call 240-777-8300 or visit the CFW website. Follow the event using the hashtag #MoCoWLB via Twitter and Facebook.