March 8, 2012

Dear AAUW members:

Today is International Women’s Day, a global celebration that honors the economic, political, and social achievements of women — past, present, and future. Now, more than any time in the recent past, we must continue to remain vigilant to ensure that women’s rights are protected and that we break through the barriers that still hinder women’s advancement around the world.

AAUW has been committed to global issues for more than a century. Since we started our International Fellowships program in 1921, AAUW has supported 3,283 women from 132 countries, funding graduate-level scholarship and training as well as international project grants to outstanding women scholars. AAUW’s work continues to extend globally through collaborations with international organizations, membership in coalitions, travel delegations, and hosting international visitors.

As we celebrate International Women’s Day, AAUW members are at the United Nations participating in the 56th Commission on the Status of Women, where we join women from around the world to amplify our voices to support the empowerment of rural women and girls.

I know that in your states and branches, you are also marking this important day in many ways — marching in Poughkeepsie, New York; advocating for legislative and attitude change in Colorado Springs, Colorado; putting on a social justice play in California; and hosting the Human Rights in the Americas event in Bowling Green, Ohio. And these are just a few of the many important programs taking place on this special day.

AAUW remains committed to ongoing efforts to engage in opportunities to connect, engage, and empower women and girls globally, and the commitment to global gender equality will continue to develop in the coming years. I am pleased to announce that our next travel delegation will visit China in fall 2012.

Thank you all for your efforts to break through barriers for women and girls in your communities and beyond.

Happy International Women’s Day!

Carolyn Garfein
AAUW President

P.S. Visit AAUW Dialog to read our International Women’s Day blog post!