Conference Theme: Empowering Women for the Future
The Women’s Forum of North Carolina champions equality, focusing on social, economic, and political power for women through constructive change and leadership development.
Women’s conferences serve as vital platforms for fostering equality and empowering women across various spheres of life. The Women’s Forum of North Carolina exemplifies this, dedicating itself to achieving and maintaining social, economic, and political power for women through collaborative efforts. These forums aren’t merely gatherings; they are engines for constructive change, providing a space for women to speak out and take decisive action on pressing public issues.
Historically, these conferences have evolved to address a broad spectrum of concerns, from legal rights and economic opportunities to health and well-being. They facilitate the development of potential women leaders, equipping them with the skills and networks needed to drive positive change within their communities and beyond. The ultimate goal is to enhance and enrich the lives of all women, creating a more equitable and just society for future generations.
The Importance of Women’s Leadership
Women’s leadership is paramount for driving progress and achieving a more balanced and representative society. The Women’s Forum of North Carolina recognizes this, actively working to develop the potential of women leaders through its initiatives. Effective leadership isn’t solely about holding positions of power; it’s about being effective agents for constructive change, speaking out on public issues, and taking decisive action.
Increased female representation in leadership roles fosters innovation, improves decision-making, and promotes inclusivity; By empowering women to lead, we unlock a wealth of talent and perspective that benefits entire communities. The Forum’s commitment to this principle underscores its dedication to enhancing and enriching the lives of all North Carolina women, building a stronger and more equitable future for all.
Keynote Speakers & Influential Figures
Attorney Michele Thorne, a key figure in the ERA’s advancement, will deliver the keynote, discussing the impact of recent ABA actions and ratification efforts.
Attorney Michele Thorne & the ERA
Attorney Michele Thorne stands as a pivotal voice in the ongoing fight for the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA). Her dedicated work culminated in a significant achievement: a recent American Bar Association (ABA) Resolution advocating for the immediate publication of the ERA as the 28th Amendment to the US Constitution.
Thorne’s instrumental role extends to the ratification process within North Carolina, demonstrating her commitment to achieving full equality for women. Her keynote address at the conference will delve into the potential impact of the ABA’s actions, offering valuable insights into the current legal landscape and future strategies for ERA ratification. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding the ERA and the crucial steps needed to secure its place in the Constitution.
Impact of ABA Actions on Women’s Rights
The American Bar Association’s (ABA) recent resolution supporting the immediate publication of the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) as the 28th Amendment represents a landmark moment for women’s rights. This endorsement signifies a powerful shift in legal perspectives, potentially influencing ongoing legislative debates and judicial interpretations.
Attorney Michele Thorne, a key figure in securing this resolution, will illuminate its far-reaching consequences during her keynote address. The discussion will explore how the ABA’s stance can bolster legal challenges to gender discrimination, strengthen advocacy efforts, and ultimately accelerate the path towards full constitutional equality for all women. Understanding this impact is crucial for activists, legal professionals, and anyone dedicated to advancing women’s rights.
Core Conference Topics: Political & Legal Empowerment
This forum will delve into the ERA’s status, women’s political participation, and legislative advocacy, empowering attendees to drive impactful change for equality.
The Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) ⎼ Current Status
The conference will provide a comprehensive update on the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA), focusing on its current legal standing and ongoing efforts toward ratification. Attorney Michele Thorne, a key figure in advocating for the ERA, will share insights into the recent American Bar Association (ABA) resolution recommending its immediate publication as the 28th Amendment.
Discussion will center on the potential impact of the ABA’s actions and the broader implications for achieving full constitutional equality for women. Attendees will learn about the historical context of the ERA, the challenges faced in its ratification, and the strategies being employed to overcome remaining obstacles. The session aims to equip participants with the knowledge and tools to actively support the ERA’s final passage and ensure its lasting legacy.
Women’s Political Participation & Representation
This session will explore the critical importance of women’s active engagement in the political process, examining current levels of representation at all levels of government. NC Women United (NCWU), a coalition dedicated to women’s equality, emphasizes building women’s power through grassroots activism and political engagement.
The discussion will analyze the barriers hindering women’s participation, including systemic biases and societal expectations. Strategies for increasing women’s representation – from running for office to advocating for policy changes – will be highlighted. Attendees will learn about effective community organizing techniques and legislative advocacy methods to amplify women’s voices and ensure their concerns are addressed in the political arena, fostering a more inclusive and equitable democracy.
Legislative Advocacy for Women’s Issues
This focused session will equip attendees with the tools and knowledge necessary to effectively advocate for legislation that advances women’s rights and equality. Building on the work of organizations like NC Women United (NCWU), participants will learn how to influence policy decisions through strategic lobbying and grassroots mobilization.
The workshop will cover key aspects of the legislative process, including bill tracking, contacting legislators, and crafting compelling advocacy messages. Experts will share insights on current legislative priorities impacting women in North Carolina and beyond. Attendees will gain practical skills in organizing advocacy campaigns, building coalitions, and amplifying their voices to create meaningful change and ensure women’s issues remain at the forefront of the political agenda.
Economic Empowerment & Financial Literacy
This segment will address the gender pay gap, women’s entrepreneurship, and provide crucial financial planning strategies for securing economic independence and future prosperity.
Closing the Gender Pay Gap
Addressing the persistent gender pay gap is a central focus of the Women’s Forum of North Carolina’s mission for economic equality. This conference session will delve into the systemic factors contributing to wage disparities, examining both overt discrimination and unconscious biases in hiring and promotion practices.
We will explore data-driven insights into the current state of the pay gap in North Carolina, highlighting its impact on women’s financial security and long-term economic well-being. The discussion will also encompass strategies for salary negotiation, advocating for pay transparency, and promoting policies that ensure equal pay for equal work.
Furthermore, we’ll analyze the intersectionality of the pay gap, considering how race, ethnicity, and other factors exacerbate wage inequalities for women from marginalized communities. The goal is to equip attendees with the knowledge and tools to champion fair compensation practices within their workplaces and communities.
Women in Entrepreneurship & Leadership
This session celebrates and empowers women forging their own paths as entrepreneurs and leaders. The Women’s Forum of North Carolina recognizes the vital role women play in driving economic innovation and creating jobs. We will showcase inspiring stories of successful women entrepreneurs, highlighting their journeys, challenges overcome, and lessons learned.
The discussion will focus on practical strategies for launching and scaling a business, accessing capital, and navigating the unique obstacles women often face in the business world. We’ll explore leadership development opportunities specifically designed to enhance women’s confidence and effectiveness as leaders.
Attendees will gain valuable insights into building strong networks, mentorship programs, and collaborative partnerships to support their entrepreneurial endeavors. The aim is to foster a supportive ecosystem where women can thrive as business owners and leaders, contributing to a more equitable and prosperous economy.
Financial Planning & Investment Strategies for Women
This crucial session addresses the unique financial challenges women face throughout their lives, from navigating the gender pay gap to securing long-term financial security. The Women’s Forum of North Carolina understands that empowering women economically is essential for overall equality.
Expert-led workshops will cover essential topics like budgeting, debt management, retirement planning, and investment strategies tailored to women’s needs and risk tolerance; We’ll demystify complex financial concepts and provide practical tools to help attendees take control of their finances.
The session will also explore the importance of financial literacy and building wealth for future generations. Attendees will learn how to advocate for fair financial practices and access resources to support their financial goals, fostering independence and economic empowerment.
Social Issues & Community Building
The forum tackles vital issues like women’s health, gender-based violence, and grassroots activism, fostering a supportive community for constructive change and empowerment.
Women’s Health & Well-being
Prioritizing holistic well-being is central to the forum’s mission, recognizing the interconnectedness of physical, mental, and emotional health for women’s empowerment. Discussions will explore access to quality healthcare, preventative care strategies, and navigating the unique health challenges women face throughout their lives.
The conference will address critical topics such as reproductive health rights, chronic disease management, and mental health support systems. Furthermore, workshops will focus on stress reduction techniques, self-care practices, and building resilience. The goal is to equip attendees with the knowledge and resources to advocate for their health needs and promote overall wellness within their communities.
Emphasis will be placed on creating a safe and supportive environment for open dialogue and shared experiences, fostering a sense of collective empowerment regarding women’s health.
Addressing Gender-Based Violence
A core tenet of the Women’s Forum is the commitment to ending all forms of gender-based violence, recognizing its devastating impact on individuals, families, and communities. This conference segment will provide a platform for raising awareness, sharing resources, and fostering collaborative solutions to combat this pervasive issue.
Expert-led sessions will cover topics such as domestic violence, sexual assault, harassment, and trafficking, exploring the root causes and systemic factors that contribute to violence against women. Attendees will learn about legal rights, support services available to survivors, and effective strategies for prevention and intervention.
The forum aims to empower participants to become advocates for change, challenging harmful norms and promoting a culture of respect and safety for all women.
Community Organizing & Grassroots Activism
NC Women United (NCWU) exemplifies the power of collective action, and this conference segment will delve into the strategies and tactics of successful community organizing and grassroots activism. Participants will explore how to build coalitions, mobilize communities, and amplify women’s voices to drive meaningful change.
Workshops will focus on practical skills such as campaign development, voter registration, lobbying, and effective communication. Attendees will learn how to identify key decision-makers, craft compelling narratives, and leverage social media to raise awareness and influence policy.
The goal is to equip participants with the tools and knowledge to become effective advocates for women’s rights at the local, state, and national levels, fostering a movement for lasting social and political transformation.
Leadership Development & Skill Enhancement
The Forum actively develops potential women leaders, providing a platform for skill enhancement and empowering women to become agents for constructive change.
Developing Potential Women Leaders
The Women’s Forum of North Carolina is deeply committed to cultivating the next generation of female leaders. This commitment manifests through targeted programs designed to equip women with the necessary tools and confidence to excel in various spheres of influence. The forum provides a unique vehicle for women to actively engage in public issues, fostering a proactive approach to constructive change.
Central to this development is the belief that empowering women requires not only addressing systemic barriers but also nurturing individual potential. Workshops and mentorship opportunities will focus on building essential leadership qualities, encouraging participants to step forward and take ownership of their roles as agents of progress. The goal is to create a sustainable pipeline of skilled and empowered women ready to shape a more equitable future for all North Carolinians.
Effective Communication & Negotiation Skills
A cornerstone of empowered leadership lies in the ability to communicate persuasively and negotiate effectively. The Women’s Forum of North Carolina recognizes this crucial need and will dedicate significant conference time to honing these skills amongst attendees. Workshops will delve into strategies for articulating ideas with clarity and impact, fostering confident public speaking, and mastering the art of active listening.
Furthermore, sessions will focus on negotiation tactics, equipping women with the tools to advocate for themselves and their communities. These skills are vital not only in professional settings but also in navigating complex social and political landscapes. The aim is to empower women to confidently voice their needs, build consensus, and achieve favorable outcomes in all aspects of their lives, driving positive change.
Mentorship Programs for Women
Recognizing the transformative power of guidance, the conference will heavily emphasize the importance of mentorship programs for women. The Women’s Forum of North Carolina understands that fostering connections between experienced leaders and emerging talent is essential for sustained progress. Dedicated sessions will explore the benefits of both formal and informal mentorship relationships, offering practical advice on how to find, cultivate, and effectively utilize mentorship opportunities.
Workshops will cover best practices for mentors and mentees alike, focusing on establishing clear goals, providing constructive feedback, and building trust. The goal is to create a supportive ecosystem where women can learn from each other’s experiences, overcome challenges, and accelerate their professional and personal growth, ultimately strengthening the collective power of women in North Carolina.
Networking & Collaboration Opportunities
The forum facilitates building a strong women’s network and forging collaborative partnerships with progressive organizations to amplify impact and drive meaningful change.
Building a Strong Women’s Network
This conference prioritizes fostering connections among attendees, creating a supportive and empowering environment for collaboration. Recognizing the strength in unity, the Women’s Forum of North Carolina actively cultivates a network where women can share experiences, offer mentorship, and build lasting relationships.
Dedicated networking sessions will be integrated throughout the event, alongside informal opportunities during breaks and meals. The goal is to transcend individual experiences and build a collective force for positive change. Participants are encouraged to actively engage, exchange contact information, and explore potential partnerships.
This robust network extends beyond the conference itself, providing ongoing support and resources to women striving for equality and leadership in all spheres of life. It’s about creating a community where every voice is valued and amplified.
Collaborative Partnerships with Progressive Organizations
The Women’s Forum of North Carolina actively seeks and values partnerships with like-minded progressive organizations to amplify its impact and broaden its reach. Recognizing that collective action is crucial for achieving systemic change, the forum collaborates with groups dedicated to women’s rights, social justice, and economic empowerment.
NC Women United (NCWU), a coalition of such organizations, exemplifies this commitment, working towards full political, social, and economic equality. These partnerships facilitate resource sharing, joint advocacy efforts, and cross-promotion of initiatives.
By uniting forces, the forum and its partners can more effectively address critical issues facing women, advocate for policy changes, and build a stronger movement for gender equality across North Carolina and beyond. This collaborative spirit is fundamental to the forum’s mission.
Conference Logistics & Information
The Winter Forum will be held in-person on January 20, 2024, at Highland United Methodist Church in Raleigh, NC, with tickets priced at $45.
Registration Details & Ticket Prices
Secure your place at the Winter Forum! Registration for the in-person event, taking place on Saturday, January 20, 2024, opens promptly at 9:30 AM at Highland United Methodist Church, located at 1901 Ridge Rd, Raleigh, NC. The formal program commences at 10:00 AM, offering a full schedule of empowering sessions and networking opportunities.
Ticket prices are set at $45 per person, providing access to all conference activities, including the keynote address by Attorney Michele Thorne, insightful workshops, and valuable connections with fellow advocates for women’s empowerment. Early registration is highly encouraged to guarantee your spot, as space may be limited. Details regarding online registration and potential group discounts will be available soon on the Women’s Forum of North Carolina website.
Venue & Accommodation Information
Join us at Highland United Methodist Church, the welcoming host of the Winter Forum on January 20, 2024. Conveniently located at 1901 Ridge Rd, Raleigh, NC, the venue offers ample parking and accessibility for all attendees. The church provides a comfortable and inspiring environment conducive to productive discussions and networking.
For those traveling from out of town, a variety of accommodation options are available in the Raleigh area. While the Women’s Forum of North Carolina does not have a designated hotel block, numerous hotels and lodging facilities are within a short distance of the venue, catering to diverse budgets and preferences. Attendees are responsible for making their own accommodation arrangements. Further resources and recommendations for local hotels can be found on the Visit Raleigh website.
Future Forum Dates & Events
The Women’s Forum of North Carolina is dedicated to ongoing engagement and impactful programming for women across the state. Following the successful Winter Forum on January 20, 2024, we are actively planning future events to continue fostering constructive change and empowering women leaders.
While specific dates are still being finalized, we anticipate hosting additional forums throughout 2025 and 2026. These events will build upon the core themes of political, economic, and social empowerment, providing opportunities for networking, skill development, and advocacy. Stay connected with us through our website and social media channels for announcements regarding upcoming dates, locations, and featured speakers. We are committed to providing a consistent platform for women to connect, collaborate, and drive positive change.