In today’s update:
- Time to Renew Your AAUW Membership
- Star Recognition for Communications & External Relations
- Stand Up for Voter Access
- Title IX Rollback Silences Survivors
Time to Renew Your AAUW Membership
It’s time to renew your AAUW membership! The membership year is from July 1 – June 30.
If you have an email address on file with AAUW, you should have received an email from memberinfo@aauw.org with a link to renew your membership online and information on how to pay by check. If you did not receive an email, please contact the branch Finance Officer.
Star Recognition for Communications & External Relations
Our Branch was recently notified that we received a star for Communications & External Relations in AAUW National’s Five Star Recognition Program. The email from National said, “We envision a bold future for AAUW that includes using technology to promote initiatives, share ideas, and build community with our members and allies. Your website exemplifies the value of technology in the fight for gender equity. Congratulations on your success in the Five Star Recognition Program!”
AAUW’s Five-Star National Recognition Program rewards affiliates (states, branches and other organizations) for aligning their work with the AAUW strategic plan and other initiatives that foster the organization’s mission of advancing gender equity for women and girls.
Stand Up for Voter Access
The landmark Voting Rights Act of 1965 stopped states from enacting racially discriminatory voting restrictions. However, laws fostering voter suppression have been on the rise. The 2013 Shelby County v. Holder Supreme Court decision gutted key protections in the law, making way for many of these new discriminatory and restrictive voting laws. These voting restrictions disproportionately impact people of color, women, young voters, voters with disabilities, and older voters, making it more difficult for them to access the ballot box.
With so much at stake each time we head to the ballot box, it’s crucial that everyone is able to make their voice heard. The Voting Rights Advancement Act (H.R. 4/S. 561) responds to the Shelby decision and the wave of voter suppression tactics enacted. It’s time for Congress to restore this landmark law and ensure voters can fully participate in elections—urge your Senators to support this bill today!
From AAUW Action Network
Title IX Rollback Silences Survivors
In May, the Trump Administration issued a rule that will weaken Title IX, rolling back protections for student survivors of sexual harassment and assault. “We urge the Administration to keep its focus on protecting our colleges and universities, minding the shaky economy and on keeping Americans healthy and safe,” said AAUW National President Kim Churches in a press release. She also wrote an editorial in Newsweek about the harmful new rule. Help push back by advocating for equity in education.
From AAUW Mission and Action