Business and Professional Women's Monday Minute |
President's Message
March may not be the start of Spring, but it does mean a little warmer temps in the U.P. We will start to see some melting of our snow. I also start to look forward to our very short Spring, the Spring Convention (who's ready for a spa night), and summer vacations. Before I get to ahead of myself though, we need to look at what March will bring us.
March 4, 2026 is World Day of Fight Against Sexual Exploitation. This day was first designated by the European Parliament in 2009 to raise awareness and promote action against all forms of sexual exploitation, including trafficking, prostitution, and other related crimes. It's a reminder to stand up for human rights and protect vulnerable individuals from this global issue.
March 4, 2026 we observe Equal Pay Day for 2026. As a reminder, Equal Pay Day is the symbolic day dedicated to raising awareness of the gender pay gap. The day is even further out for women of different ethnic groups.
March 28, 2026 will be Michigan BPW Spring Board meeting. Who should attend? All members are welcome to attend, with minimally one member from each local organization in attendance to represent your group. At Spring Board, you can expect to hear about updates to forms, learn about the Michigan BPW convention in May, and we will approve the budget for this next year. Spring Board meeting will be virtual and can be found at this link, starting at 10:00 AM.
https://michigantech.zoom.us/j/84292920383
I look forward to seeing all your smiling faces on the Zoom call on March 28th.
Forging Forward,
Margaret Landsparger
MI BPW President 2025-2027
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Editor's Note
Happy March.
We have a lot going on this month in BPW land. Please take a look at all that is happening and support and attend as your schedule allows.
Please contact me at angelbpw1719@gmail.com for
for any events or news you'd like to have highlighted in this publication. You have many chances to do so.
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Spring Board Information
Time: Mar 28, 2026 10:00 AM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Join from PC, Mac, Linux, iOS or Android:
https://michigantech.zoom.us/j/84292920383
Or Telephone:
Dial(for higher quality, dial a number based on your current location):
US: +1 305 224 1968 or +1 309 205 3325 or +1 312 626 6799 or +1 646 876 9923 or +1 646 931 3860 or +1 301 715 8592 or +1 719 359 4580 or +1 253 205 0468 or +1 253 215 8782 or +1 346 248 7799 or +1 360 209 5623 or +1 386 347 5053 or +1 507 473 4847 or +1 564 217 2000 or +1 669 444 9171 or +1 669 900 6833 or +1 689 278 1000
Meeting ID: 842 9292 0383
International numbers available:
https://michigantech.zoom.us/j/84292920383
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Presidents and officers, please send reports to margaret@mtu.edu by March 16 for inclusion in the meeting packet.
10:00 Business Meeting
- Call to order
- Greetings
- Roll Call
- Credentials
- Standing Rules
- Adoption of Agenda
- Officer Reports, EC Actions, Recommendations
- Committee Chair Reports
- Nominations Chair Report
Unfinished Business
- Convention 2026 – Saturday May 2, 2026
New Business
- Legislative Platform
- 2026-2027 Budget
- By-Laws with respect to Sponsorships
All members are welcome, and board members are strongly encouraged to attend. I look forward to continuing my first year with the Spring Board as your president.
Margaret Landsparger
Forging Forward
MI-BPW President 2025-2027
Keweenaw Chapter
906 231-0013
margaret@mtu.edu
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Affiliate Liaison Updates
Since March has a lot going on, we decided to skip a meeting and look for a speaker in April. Stay tuned for a meeting date.
If you are an affiliate or know of one, please contact Sue Oser. at angelbpw1719@gmail.com.
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Please send your local and state dues to your local treasurer for her to forward the state portion to the BPW/MI membership chair. The dues are $60 for state dues and will cover your dues until 5/31/2025. For affiliate members, you may send your dues directly with checks made out directly to BPW/Michigan. Here is the link for the BPW/MI 2025-26 membership form.
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BPW/Michigan Schedule of Events
2025-2026 Schedule
Happy Hour Thursdays (3rd Thursdays of the Month)
Spring Board - March 28, 2026 (online or hybrid)
State Convention - May 2, 2026 (location TBD)
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BPW Local Meeting Dates
If you are interested in travelling to a local BPW meeting in your are or another part of Michigan, please be mindful of their meeting, dates and times.
Albion BPW - Meets at 5:00pm, at the Sheridan Township Hall in Albion on the 4th Monday of the month.
Ionia - Meets 2nd Monday, noon
Jackson BPW - Jackson BPW meets on the 1st and 3rd Monday of each month at the Cascade Manor House in Jackson Michigan from noon - 1:15 p.m.
Keweenaw - Meets 1st Tuesday of the month at 6:00 pm
Wayne - Meets 4th Tuesday 6pm to 7:30pm at the Wayne Public Library
West Branch - Meets 2nd Wednesday, 5:30 p.m.
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BPW/Michigan would like to honor the following birthdays:
March Birthdays
5- Jean Barker, Ionia
6- Anne Marie Revett, Traverse City
8 - Beverly Blankertz, Wayne
16 - Jeanmarie Hagan, Keweenaw
23 - Barb Fuller, Jackson
Julie Portman, Keweenaw
25 - Sarah Tackett, Jackson
27- Barb Montgomery, Ionia
28 - Judith Dabanian, Wayne
29 - Lynda Zeller, Affiliate
If you want your birthday to be recognized, make sure to write it down when you renew or apply for membership. You just might get a nice card out of it.
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Stay tuned for updated information on the Happy Hour.
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Please keep those BPW sisters in your thoughts and prayers who are sick, struggling or otherwise. Take care of yourselves, your family, and each other. Check in on those older members and keep in touch in all forms of communication.
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Email warning
BPW members -
We continue to get messages phishing for you to buy gift cards and other items. The messages are pretending to be me or others on the EC, but if you look closely you’ll see it is not originating from my email address or those of our EC members.
Don’t reply or do anything with those email messages - delete them.
It has been a problem of ours for years.
The lesson is that we should always read the email address when you’re asked to do something that seems odd.
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Michigan Manuals are available for $10. Send request to Shirley Zeller seztowne@gmail.com and she will mail it to you.
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NFBPWC NEWS
he National Federation of Business and Professional Women's clubs (NFBPWC) develops the business, professional and leadership potential of women on all levels through education, advocacy, networking, mentoring, skill building and economic empowerment programs and projects.
The National Federation of Business and Professional Women's Clubs (NFBPWC) of the United States of America is an affiliate of the International Federation of Business and Professional Women, which spans across five regions and over 110 countries of the world. In 2017 we celebrated 98 years of empowering women through our mission which is to develop the business, professional and leadership potential of women on all levels through education, advocacy, mentoring, networking, skill building and economic empowerment programs and projects.
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Theme for 2024-2026: Connecting Locally, Uniting Nationally, Igniting Globally
NFBPWC Executive Committee (2024-2026):
Barbara Bozeman, President
Maria DeSousa, VP Membership
Emily VanVleck, VP Advocacy
Nermin Ahmad, Secretary
Dr. Jo Naylor, Treasurer
Bryn Norrie, Young BPW
Megan Shellman-Rickard, Immediate Past President
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Important events and dates coming up (open to all NFBPWC members)
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National Events
- Every Friday: Friday Night Conversations (BPW members only)
- NFBPWC JDEI March 9, 2026 2nd Monday of the Month 5:00pm PDT/8:00pm EDT Open to the Public
- NFBPWC ADVOCACY COMMITTEE March 12, 2026 2nd Thursday of the Month
- CSW70 - THE 2030 CHALLENGE: WOMEN LEADING SOLUTIONS FOR SDGS March 16, 2026 10:30am PDT/12:30pm EDT (virtual) Open to the public Register at https://nfbpwc.org/event-6591786
- NFBPWC MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE March 16, 2026 3rd Monday of the Month 5:00pm PDT/8:00pm EDT BPW Members only
- NFBPWC L3 (LIFELONG LEADERSHIP AND LEARNING) COMMITTEE March 17, 2026 4:00pm PDT/7:00pm EDT BPW Members Only
- NFBPWC VIRTUAL PRESENTS MASTERING ZOOM: MEETING HOST ESSENTIALS March 18, 2026 3rd Wednesday of the Month 5:00 pm PDT/8:00pm EDT Open to the Public Register at: https://nfbpwc.org/event-6581845
- NFBPWC ESB PRESENTS FROM STIRRING TO SERVING: TURNING INSIGHT INTO ACTION March 22, 2026 5:00pm PDT/8:00pm EDT Open to the Public Register at https://nfbpwc.org/event-6084110
- NFBPWC HEALTH March 23, 2026 4th Monday of the Month 5:00pm PDT/8:00pm EDT Open to the Public
- NFBPWC FINANCE March 27, 2026 4th Friday of the Month 3:00pm PDT/5:00pm EDT BPW Members Only
- BPW PASO DEL NORTE PRESENTS LEADING MEETINGS EFFECTIVELY USING ROBERTS RULES OF ORDER March 28, 2026 Time TBD Open to the Public Register at https://nfbpwc.org/event-6574574
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Save the Date
July 16-19, 2026 NFBPWC General Assembly in Raleigh/Durham hosted by NFBPWC North Carolina
REGISTER HERE
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TAKE THE SURVEY
You’ve already received a few emails encouraging you to complete the survey. It is a JotForm and according to those who’ve already taken it, it should require only about 15-20 minutes of your time. *Please note that if you do not fill out the form completely, it will not be submitted. If you are concerned about anonymity, the system does not track emails, and you can answer “NFBPWC” and “USA” where it asks for Affiliate and City.
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National Board Meetings
April 7, 2026 | July 7, 2026 5:00 pm PDT / 8:00 pm EDT NFBPWC Board of Directors Meeting (Open to All BPW Members)
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1st Tuesdays of the Month 5:00 pm PDT / 8:00 pm EDT Executive Committee Meetings (EC Only)
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Considering next month’s theme of Wellness for Women, this month’s editor’s question is about taking care of yourself and the women in your life. Taking care of ourselves and others looks different for each of us:
- Do you treat yourself to a great haircut, mani-pedi, massage, new shoes, or a designer scarf or purse?
- Do you cook nice meals for yourself, even when you’re the only one eating?
- Do you cook for others-inviting them over or bringing them something when they’re down, sick, or just had a long day?
Please take a minute to tell your NFBPWC sisters how you express care by emailing magazine@NFBPWC.org.
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Every day is a good day to advocate, but there is no better time to advocate for gender equality than during Women's History Month. With March around the corner, the Advocacy Committee has engagement opportunities to share.
Monthly Advocacy Dates
Women's History Month. This year NFBPWC commemorates Women's History Month by honoring notable women through history. Check out our social media pages to learn more. Make sure to share the posts with your networks.
Endometriosis Awareness Month. March is designated Endometriosis Awareness Month, bringing awareness to the devastating disease. Endometriosis impacts 1 in 10 women worldwide and often takes years to diagnose.
Equal Rights Amendment
Another 28th and still no 28th. Join NFBPWC as we continue the fight for the ERA by participating in a financial blackout on February 28th. Use your purchasing power by avoiding unnecessary spending on the 28th of each month, and if you must shop, support small businesses. We won't spend another 28th without the 28th. Share our campaign graphic to spread the word.
CSW70
The 70th Session of the Commission on the Status of Women will convene on March 9th, bringing together world leaders and civil society advocates from around the world. Register to join parallel events during the Forum or visit UN Web TV to watch official side events.
Advocacy Tools
Your Advocacy Committee has created new tools to enhance your advocacy efforts. The new How to Advocate Guide, Bill Screening Best Practices guide, and Legislative Tracking Spreadsheet are now available on the advocacy page of the national website.
A workshop unveiling these tools was held earlier this month - the recording can be viewed here.
Advocacy doesn't need to be complicated. The Advocacy Committee is working to bring you quick, easy ways to make your voice heard.
Wishing you a Happy Women's History Month.
In Unity,
Emily VanVleck
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International BPW News
What is BPW International?
The International Federation of Business and Professional Women (BPW International) was founded by Dr. Lena Madesin Phillips in 1930.
BPW International is one of the most influential international networks of business and professional women with affiliates in over 100 countries in five continents. Its members include influential women leaders, entrepreneurs, business owners, executives, professionals and young business and professional women.
Mission:
BPW develops the professional, business and leadership potential of women through skill building, networking advocacy, mentoring around the world.
For Online BPW news, please visit BPW International web site www.bpw-international.org, International Federation of Business and Professional Women’s
Facebook http://www.facebook.com/BPWinternational2020 and BPW International’s Facebook www.facebook.com/BPW.international.
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Every year, prior to the opening of the Commission on the Status of Women at the United Nations in New York City, BPW International holds a special two-day event known as the BPW International Leaders' Summit.
The dates are March 6 - 7, 2026
This event represents an opportunity for members interested in International engagement and leadership development to connect directly with BPW International and fellow members from around the world. For those who value in-person global collaboration and strategic discussion, this may be an enriching experience.
Please note this summit is in person only with no virtual component available for those who cannot get to New York City at that time.
Message from IFBPW President, Diana Barragan:
https://www.bpw-international.org/2026/02/11/final-call-bpw-international-leaders-summit-registration-deadline-17-february/
For any additional questions, our Regional Coordinator Karin Gorgerat has graciously offered to serve as POC: karin.gorgerat@bpw-international.org
*If you do intend to attend, please let me know. There are a few of us from USA who are attending CSW and possibly the Leaders' Summit.
Barbara Bozeman
President, 2024-2026
National Federation of Business and Professional Women's Clubs
president@nfbpwc.org
President’s Message (from BPW Canada)
MARK YOUR CALENDARS – March 8th, 2026 is International Women’s Day Rights. Justice. Action. For ALL Women and Girls This is the slogan for International Women’s Day for 2026. – This theme focuses on dismantling structural barriers to equality, such as discriminatory laws and weak legal protections.
What is the significance of March 8th?
International Women's Day is celebrated in many countries around the world. It is a day when women and girls are recognized for their achievements without regard to divisions, whether national, ethnic, linguistic, cultural, economic or political achievements.
International Women's Day (IWD) is a global day to recognize and celebrate women’s and girls’ social, economic, cultural, and political achievements. It’s also a time to highlight the progress made in advancing women’s rights and the ongoing efforts needed to ensure their full participation in all aspects of society. It's a time to celebrate progress, raise awareness of ongoing challenges, and drive action toward a more inclusive world.
BPW Canada stands with BPW International in recognition of all the above achievements made from women and girls around the globe. We also recognize the setbacks many of them have had, but endured all the same, to break through the proverbial “glass ceiling”. They have created the path for women and girls to follow in their footsteps and go beyond.
We live in a world with many uncertainties, but one thing is for sure, BPW will continue to create resolutions, present briefs to government and push towards recognition for all. So, thank you to all the women and girls before us. May we know them, may we be them and may we lead others along the path to equality. On March 8th, take a moment to say “thank you” to those that went before us. Thank you for your perseverance and tenacity to make things right for all women and girls.
Be the Voice . . . Be the Change . . . Be the Difference
Shannon McEwing
President 2024-2026
BPW Canada
president@bpwcanada.com
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Michigan Legislative Platform Focus
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ERA News
ABOUT THE ERA COALITION
The
ERA Coalition/Fund for Women's Equality was founded in 2014 to bring concerted, organized action to the effort to ratify the Equal Rights Amendment. Comprised of nearly one hundred organizations across the country, the Coalition provides education and advocacy on Constitutional Equality. The ERA Coalition’s groundbreaking research indicates that more than 94% of all Americans want an Equal Rights Amendment. The ERA Coalition/FFWE has offices in New York City and Washington, DC
For more information about the Equal Rights Amendment and ERA Coalition, please visit our website .
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Once again, Epstein survivors were dismissed by the Department of Justice.
The latest Epstein files released by the Justice Department publicly exposed survivors’ identities, violated their privacy, and inflicted additional trauma upon those who had already suffered immeasurably. The head of the Department of Justice refused to apologize when prompted to do so.
Survivors deserved much better. They deserve the protections afforded by the Equal Rights Amendment.
"Equality of rights under the law shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any state on account of sex."
The ERA was ratified as the 28th Amendment on January 27, 2020, when Virginia became the 38th state required for ratification. However, it remains unrecognized—despite 78% of public support. This deliberate inaction perpetuates inequality and enables continued attacks on fundamental rights.
The 28th Amendment would elevate sex discrimination to the highest level of constitutional scrutiny—the same standard applied to racial and religious discrimination. This would transform the legal landscape for survivors, ensuring meaningful access to justice and accountability for perpetrators, regardless of their wealth or influence.
We must advocate for universal recognition and implementation of the 28th Amendment through our vote, sustained pressure on Congress, and persistent efforts across our judicial system and policy frameworks.
Join us. Take the pledge to claim the 28th Amendment today and invite others to join. Together, we can secure the justice and equality that all survivors deserve.
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Equal Pay Day Coalition News
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Equal Pay Day Coalition Partners
The Michigan Equal Pay Coalition is working to raise awareness of the wage gap between men and women and call for action from policymakers.
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MI EPD Coalition Partners
Supporting Organizations:
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Michigan Women’s Commission: A Voice for Michigan Women
The 15-member Michigan Women's Commission was created by statute in 1968. Commission duties include reviewing the status of women in Michigan, directing attention to critical problems confronting women, and recognizing women's accomplishments and contributions to Michigan. Commissioners are appointed by the Governor and serve three-year terms.
If you would like to get in touch with Shannon M. Garret, Chief Strategy Officer and the Luncheon Speaker at Convention, please connect with her here:
Shannon M. Garrett | Chief Strategy Officer
Michigan Women’s Commission
A Voice for Michigan Women
Email: garretts5@michigan.gov
Cell: 517-940-2422
Website | YouTube
Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | LinkedIn
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Attacks on Election Integrity
- President Trump called to “nationalize” elections, demanding federal intervention in state and local election administration for all races. His rhetoric is “a calculated effort to dismantle the integrity of the election system.”
- LWV issued a statement responding to reports that the Administration is preparing an executive order to impose federal control over elections.
- The US Department of Justice appeared to target a local election office (Ulster County, NY), requesting that they submit documentation to federal authorities.
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AAUW Awardee Spotlight
Lynn Marie Bahringer, a 2025-26 Career Development Grant recipient, is pursuing a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at SUNY Fredonia. In 2025, she completed her counseling internship at Spectrum Health and Human Services, where she gained hands-on experience working in community-based mental health settings. Lynn Marie’s long-term career goal is to work in community mental health, advocating for populations who face barriers to quality mental health services.
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We’re proud to partner with Kalamazoo College to continue a powerful, longstanding storytelling project: The Abortion Monologues — inspired by The Vagina Monologues and rooted in the belief that the stories we’re told to hide are often the ones that most need to be heard.
This week, we’re building a cohort of storytellers who are willing to anonymously share their abortion experiences or other personal experiences in the pursuit of reproductive freedom. Your story will be thoughtfully crafted and then performed by students and local actors in a public theater performance on campus in May 2026.
By sharing diverse experiences, we amplify voices that are too often marginalized, spark meaningful conversation, and create art that moves people toward empathy and action. As a member of this cohort, you will work in a supportive, collaborative environment designed to foster creativity, vulnerability, and connection — while remaining anonymous.
What participation looks like:
- Approximately 5 hours over 5 weeks
- Virtual storytelling trainings
- Guided workshops to craft and refine your story
- Small-group story sharing
- A $250 stipend for participating
All experiences with reproductive health care are welcome. Your name will not be shared.
Applications are due Friday, March 6.
APPLY TODAY
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What happens when life rewrites your story without warning?
Emmy Award-winning TV anchor Christy McDonald thought she had mastered composure after nearly three decades in television news. Then her husband’s terminal diagnosis changed everything — including how she understood strength, leadership, and authenticity.
You’re invited to join MWF’s Power of 100 Women community for an intimate evening with Christy as she shares a deeply honest conversation about resilience, vulnerability, and what it really means to show up fully when life shifts course.
This gathering offers a glimpse into the kind of connection and inspiration that defines Power of 100 Women — a community of leaders who believe in lifting each other as they rise.
- ✨ Insightful conversation
- ✨ Meaningful connections
- ✨ Refreshments served
If this speaks to you, we encourage you to reserve your seat now. Tickets are $10 and very limited.
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Contact Your Representatives
Speak up on the issues that matter.
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VIA NFBPWC -
Inflation Reduction Act (IRA)
We’re advocating to protect the IRA from rollbacks and ensure its historic investments in clean energy and climate resilience remain in place.
Take Action for the IRA
Stop the SAVE Act
The so-called SAVE Act would impose voter suppression tactics under the guise of election security. We're urging lawmakers to reject this dangerous bill. Take Action on the SAVE Act
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Today marks the beginning of Black History Month, a celebration of Black Americans’ achievements and contributions, and an opportunity to expand public awareness of their role in shaping our country’s history. Learn more about the month’s origins and meaning, including why it takes place in February.
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Notorious RBG
Film & Conversation
Tuesday, March 3, 2026--5:30 PM
GVSU Loosemore Auditorium, DeVos Center, City Campus
What a great kick-off for Women's History Month!
Join the Greater Grand Rapids Women's History Council (GGRWHC) and GVSU partners* for an engaging evening celebrating the life and legacy of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg -- the "Notorious RBG." Explore RGB's groundbreaking contributions to voting rights, reproductive freedom, and equal protection.
Born in 1933 in Brooklyn, New York, Ginsburg rose from humble beginnings to become one of the most influential legal figures in American history. At a time when few women entered the legal profession, she excelled academically, graduating at the top of her class from Columbia Law School after studying at Harvard. Despite her brilliance, she faced persistent gender discrimination, which shaped her lifelong commitment to equality.
Before joining the Supreme Court, Ginsburg co-founded the American Civil Liberties Union’s Women’s Rights Project. In the 1970s, she argued a series of landmark cases that persuaded the Court to recognize that laws discriminating on the basis of sex violated the Constitution. Her careful, strategic approach transformed constitutional law and expanded opportunities for women and men alike. She was appointed to the Supreme Court in 1993.
5:30 PM: Reception with light refreshments
6:00 PM: Screening of RBG
After film panel discussion
Parking available at Grand Valley Seward Ramp/Lot. Bring ticket to event for validation.
Panel Participants
- Navid Darvishzadeh, Assistant Professor of Film Studies, GVSU’s Department of Visual and Media Arts.
- Laura Schneider, Associate Professor and Internship Coordinator for the GVSU political science department.
- Liz Balck, Policy strategist at the ACLU of Michigan, based in Grand Rapids.
*Special thanks to our GVSU Partners: Center for Women and Gender Equity, CLAS Visual & Media Arts, Pew Faculty Teaching and Learning Center, GVSU's Women's Commission, and GVSU's Division of People, Equity, and Culture--Office of Civil Rights and Title IX
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Michigan Legislation
Gov. Whitmer’s 2026 State of the State Address as Prepared for Delivery
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer delivered her eighth and final State of the State address at the Michigan House Chamber in front of a joint session of the Michigan House of Representatives and the Michigan Senate and broadcasted live throughout the state.
The address focused on her three main policy priorities in her final year as governor: literacy, housing, and health care affordability. It reflected on the past seven years of progress that helped move Michigan forward. Since taking office, Gov. Whitmer has worked across the aisle to get things done. She has signed a record 1,575 bipartisan bills and seven balanced, bipartisan budgets into law, delivering on the kitchen-table issues that make a real difference in people’s lives.
Read the full State of the State press release and the Gov. Whitmer's remarks as prepared for delivery.
Watch the State of the State address replay.
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“I want to be remembered as a woman … who dared to be a catalyst of change.”
– SHIRLEY CHISHOLM
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Know Your Rights, Michigan
All eyes are on Minneapolis this month, but federal agencies continue to escalate their attacks on communities nationwide, from Los Angeles to Chicago to Maine. In the face of these unprecedented operations, Planned Parenthood of Michigan reaffirms our commitment to serving all people regardless of immigration status.
Ensuring that PPMI health centers remain safe spaces for our patients and their loved ones is one of our top priorities. We do not allow law enforcement or federal agents into our health centers without valid judicial warrants, and we have policies in place to ensure that we are doing everything possible to protect patient privacy and safety.
In a time like this, it’s important that everyone remains informed and knows their rights. Below are some resources from trusted community partners designed to help you understand your legal rights, stay safe during encounters with federal agents, and support your communities.
- Know Your Rights with ICE: A helpful new guide from our friends at Michigan Voices, ACLU of Michigan, and the Michigan Immigrant Rights Center.
- Red Cards: Red Cards provide information on how to exercise your rights during encounters with immigration enforcement. You can order Red Cards online in a variety of languages or download files to print them yourself.
- ACLU of Michigan’s Know Your Rights mobile hub: Bookmark this page for quick access to the ACLU’s library of immigration rights resources.
- Michigan Immigrant Rights Center: MIRC connects detainees and their families with assistance, offers a guide to help prepare your family and community for encounters with immigration enforcement, and more.
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If you or someone you know needs to talk, here are lifelines where compassionate support is available:
- Stand with Trans Ally Parent Program: 833-435-7798
- Trans Lifeline: (877) 565-8860
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741-741 or AYUDA to 741-741 for Spanish support
- Trevor Project Chat: (866) 488-7386 or Text START to 678-678
- National LGBT Hotline: (888) 246-7743
- LGBT Youth Talkline: (800) 246-7743
- LGBT Senior Hotline: (888) 234-7243
- Blackline: (800) 604-5841
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It’s especially important to prioritize your well-being and be aware of resources for those who may need them. Here are some that could help.
- National Sexual Assault Hotline: Call 1-800-656-4673 or chat at rainn.org for support after sexual assault including referrals to the closest rape crisis center.
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 for free and confidential support from a crisis counselor.
- VictimConnect Resource Center: Visit victimconnect.org or call 855-484-2846 to learn about your rights and get emotional support as a crime victim.
- End Rape on Campus: Visit endrapeoncampus.org to learn about your institution’s sexual assault investigation policies, prevention efforts, and survivor support resources with the Campus Accountability Map + Tool.
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Other hotlines and resources to provide support to survivors are always available. Make sure that you reach out for help if you, or someone you know, need it.
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Themes of the Month: March
American Red Cross Month or Red Cross Month Link Link, Credit Education Month,
Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) Month Link,
Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month Link, Endometriosis
Month Link, Expanding
Girls' Horizons in Science & Engineering Month Link, Irish-American
Heritage Month, National Breast Implant Awareness Month Link, National
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Awareness Month, National Craft Month,
National Multiple Sclerosis Education & Awareness Month, National
Kidney Month, National Nutrition Month, National Social Work
Month Link, National
Women's History Month, Spiritual Wellness Month, Transgender Month of
Action for Healthcare Equality Link, Women's
History Month: Link, Worldwide
Homeschooling Awareness Month
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BPW/MI members making it
Celeste Bennett, BPW/MI member is working on her
next book in her Yarn Genie Mysteries. She has also been featured as
part of IFBPW Artslink. You can find more information about her books
at celestebennett.com.
Sue Oser, Affiliate member, is now a writer/blogger for Patheos. You can find her writings here:
https://www.patheos.com/blogs/theangelwriterspiritualreal/author/soser/
Pam Withrow has two books, an autobiography
called Welfare to Warden and a memoir called Madam
Warden. Both are available through Amazon or from her
at Pamelawithrow.com,
although you cannot order through the website. However, you can
contact Pam through it. Only Madam Warden is
featured on the website.
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Who is getting the Monday Minutes in your local? Are those without email access staying informed to the latest? Please help in passing along information to those members via your local meetings or otherwise. If you know someone who is not getting a Monday Minute or other email information, please let us know how we can help.
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