Dear friend, 

The last few weeks have shown that this election season is truly unprecedented.

Amidst the charged political climate and polarizing rhetoric, it's more important than ever for citizens to make their voices heard and remain actively engaged in the political process.

We often hear candidates and politicians refer to "women's issues," but the truth is that all issues are women's issues — from the economy, to healthcare, to immigration, to foreign policy, to the environment.

And while voting is one way that Americans can shape the future direction of their communities and our nation as a whole, it isn't the only way. By participating in the political process — whether that's through volunteering, organizing, or even running for office themselves — women can make a difference for years to come.

Every vote counts; every voice matters. Even small actions can make a big difference. You can make a big difference.

Onward,

Larissa

WPLN Founder and President

In case you weren't able to join us in Denver last month for our 2024 #WPLNSummit, we've started sharing blog posts about the event on our website!

Want a full rundown of the 3-day event? Here's our recap of our 2024 #WPLNSummit:

Our 2024 Summit Speakers included current and former members of the U.S. Congress, state lawmakers, campaign and policy experts, business leaders, and more! There were inspiring conversations, insightful panel discussions, and meaningful networking opportunities.

Sue Finkam

Mayor of Carmel, Indiana

Sue Finkam was elected Mayor in 2023 after serving for 10 years on the Carmel City Council in various leadership roles. She is also a small business owner of a marketing agency and the mother of son Drew.

Mayor Finkam attended the 2024 #WPLNSummit in Denver, saying: "Last week, I took a couple days off to attend my first Women's Public Leadership Network National Summit, and I'm glad I did. It allowed me to clear my mind after running hard since taking office. Meeting incredible female leaders from across the country in various public service roles was inspiring. Excited to return today more determined than ever to do what's right for our future."

To learn more about Mayor Finkam, visit her website and follow her on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram!

... a woman has secured enough delegates to be the 2024 presidential nominee for a major political party!

It's likely that for the second time in 8 years — and only the second time in American history — a woman will be one of the two major party nominees for president.

In a year in which the number of women running for Congress has unfortunately fallen, a woman at the top of the ticket helps to normalize and socialize the fact that women can lead every level of government.

We look forward to the day that a female candidate, or a two-women ticket, or a female-majority Supreme Court, is seen as normal in the United States.

As WPLN Immediate Past Chair Jen Sarver said at our 2024 #WPLNSummit, “At some point, it won’t be a novelty that women are running for office… I’m so excited to never see the word ‘first’ again.”

And since we know you're busy, here are our top picks for other "must reads" this month!

• For the woman who recognizes the power of influencers with large platforms, the New York Times reported on the "voices young conservatives are listening to online."
• For the woman who knows the need for all kinds of support systems, read about Olympic athlete Allyson Felix partnering with Pampers to establish the first-ever nursery in the Athletes Village at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
• For the woman who understands that sexism and misogyny directed toward one woman perpetuates sexism and misogyny against all women, Deseret News covered "research-tested ways to mitigate the effects of sexist comments and attitudes."
• For the woman who wants to Remember the Ladies, check out our monthly feature on key moments in women's representation and rights in the past during the month of July.

If you have a good recommendation for next month,

let us know!

AUGUST 1 | Thinking about running for office? Join our Virginia training partner Virginia Conservative Women's Coalition for "Running For Office 101," a special lunchtime session with State Senator Emily Jordan and Mike Young, Managing Director at FP1 and former Executive Director of the Virginia State Senate Caucus.

AUGUST 15 | Our Massachusetts training partner The Pocketbook Project is launching its Young Professionals Council (YPC)! To apply, send a cover letter and resume to team@pocketbookproject.org by August 15.

Support WPLN programs and resources by making a contribution today!

Women’s Public Leadership Network (WPLN) is a non-profit organization organized under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Donations are tax-deductible to the full extent provided by law.