Challenges to Gender Equity

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the challenges to gender equity in education, employment, economic security and freedom from violence, but our democracy thrives on the active participation of its citizens. Taking action to defend our shared values and push back against those who seek to repress our rights is crucial for shaping the future we want to see. We can take action in many ways:

  • Vote. Gather information from credible sources to choose your candidates (including League of Women Voters Naperville Vote 411), and then be sure to cast your ballot by mail or in person.
  • Reach out to your elected officials. To identify your state and federal elected officials, see here. See our Action Toolkit for information on local elected officials..
  • Write a letter to the editor. To submit a letter to a local newspaper, see our Action Toolkit.
  • Submit Witness Slips for Illinois legislation. Create an account here and submit witness slips before committee hearings on proposed legislation. 
  • Join AAUW Naperville Area. We have a strong history of advocacy, particularly through the activities of our public policy committee, I-Act.  
  • Stay informed. Read credible news sources, get on your legislators’ email list (most have regular newsletters you can sign up for), attend events.
  • Share information. Consider sharing information respectfully on social media about upcoming events or legislation or issues of concern. Do the same with friends and family if you can.
  • Attend rallies with like-minded organizations. You will find information on upcoming events on social media, including the AAUW Naperville Facebook page. Find organizations that share your values and follow them. (Included pictures are from a rally in Naperville on March 4 at the Naperville train station.)
  •  Step outside your comfort zone. Don’t be afraid to go out on a limb, that is where all the fruit is!

Whatever you choose to do, advocate FOR positive action. Seek out those who share your concerns and work together. As John Lewis said on the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, Alabama in 2020, at an event commemorating Bloody Sunday, “Get in good trouble, necessary trouble, and redeem the soul of America.”