Keeping Womens Issues Visible - VP Sherryll - Oct26

With Parliament having been dissolved ahead of the November General Election, it has been a quieter period for formal parliamentary advocacy. However, the issues affecting women and girls in Aotearoa New Zealand have certainly not gone away.

Issues such as pay equity, online safety, violence against women and girls, and the protection of vulnerable women and children remain important areas of concern. Our BPW policies provide a strong foundation for continuing to speak up, raise awareness and advocate for positive change. The coming election is also an opportunity for us to consider the issues we want to see prioritised by the next Parliament. I encourage members to look closely at the policies and commitments of candidates and political parties, and to consider how these align with the advancement, equality and rights of women and girls.

I would also encourage members to keep sharing the issues that matter to them and to consider how their clubs can contribute to our advocacy work. You do not need to be an expert to make a difference. Sometimes, asking questions, sharing information or bringing an emerging issue to our attention is an important first step. Our strength lies in working together, drawing on our policies and values, and speaking with a collective voice.

Advocacy may be quieter at present, but our commitment remains strong. I look forward to working with members as we continue to identify the issues that need our attention and prepare for the next stage of our advocacy.

Ngā mihi

Sherryll Markie-Brookes

Vice President-Issues