“We Were Made for Times Like These”: Advocacy Orientation Recap
Written By: Margaret Moodian, Ed.D., Rise Advocacy Co-Chair
Last night’s Together Women Rise advocacy webinar inspired our advocacy team, including many who joined us for the first time. The theme, “We Were Made for Times Like These”, resonated with everyone in attendance, serving as a powerful reminder that although the future may seem uncertain, we have the tools and the determination to make a difference. Our constitutionally-assured access to the corridors of power in Washington provides us with an incredible opportunity to advocate on behalf of women and girls around the world who lack a voice.
We were honored to have our fearless leader, Beverley Francis-Gibson, as our special guest. Beverley delivered a stirring message about the importance of advocacy, reminding us that Together Women Rise is more than just an organization supporting women and girls globally—it is a community where we lift each other up and amplify our collective voice. When we advocate together, we not only transform the world but also ourselves.
Rise Advocacy Chapter member, Chris King, and Advocacy Chapter coach, Jim Hennigan, shared heartfelt remarks about their personal journeys with advocacy. They reflected on the history of the organization, how much it has grown, and the profound impact advocacy has had on both their lives and the lives of those we aim to support. Their words served as a testament to the power of persistence and passion in advocacy work.
Susan Wright provided an insightful recap of the highlights from 2024, celebrating the progress we have made and the milestones we have achieved. She also shared information about this month’s grantee, Clean Start Africa, a remarkable organization helping incarcerated women rebuild their lives in Kenya and neighboring countries. Learning about their mission and the tangible impact they are making was inspiring.
We also heard from Karyne Bury with the Grassroots Team at RESULTS, who offered valuable insights into the work RESULTS does to support the Rise Advocacy chapter and examples of the great tools they can offer to Rise advocates. Her expertise and encouragement underscored the importance of our strategic partnership and how it can lead to meaningful policy changes.
As the author Alice Walker once said, “The most common way people give up their power is by thinking they don’t have any.” These words were a resounding call to action throughout the evening, reminding us that we each possess the power to advocate for change. And as Michelle Obama encourages us, “Do something!” We are equipped, empowered, and ready to make a positive impact.
The webinar left us all feeling inspired, motivated, and ready to take action. Advocacy is not just about amplifying voices—it is about creating meaningful change, standing in solidarity, and believing that we are truly made for times like these. We look forward to working with our newly expanded team to be powerful advocates for women and girls throughout 2025!
In case you missed it, you can watch the recorded webinar here. And if you are interested in making a difference this year through advocacy, sign up here.