Happy New Year!

I am excited to be the Chair of the Women's Policy Forum. I hope we can include as many women as possible from Tarrant County to join our mission and vision. My intention for my monthly newsletters is to provide our members with highlights of key events and women.

January is not only a month for celebration and remembrance, but also a time for raising awareness about critical social and health issues. 

• National Poverty in America Awareness Month: This observance shines a light on the struggles faced by millions of Americans living in poverty. It's a call to action for policymakers, nonprofits, and individuals to address economic inequality and create opportunities for all.
• Human Trafficking Prevention Month: Human trafficking affects millions globally. January serves as a time to educate, advocate, and mobilize efforts to end modern-day slavery and protect vulnerable populations.
• Cervical Health Awareness Day: Celebrated on January 23, this day raises awareness about maternal and reproductive healthcare in the United States.

Significant Women's Events in January

• Margaret Chase Smith became the first woman to serve in both the House and Senate (1949).
• Nellie Taylor Ross became the first woman governor in U.S. history (Wyoming) (1925).
• Amelia Earhart makes the first solo flight from Hawaii to North American (January 11, 1935).
• Nellie Bly, journalist, completed her around-the-world trip in 72 days, 6 hours, 11 minutes and 14 seconds after setting sail east to prove she could circle the globe in les than 80 days (January 25, 1890).
• Mary Decker became the first woman to run a mile in under 4 1/2 minutes, running it at 4:17.55 (January 25, 1980).
• Violet Neatly Anderson is the first black women to practice law before the U.S. Supreme Court (January 29, 1926).
• Hattie Wyatt Caraway became the first woman elected to the U.S. Senate (1932).
• Nancy Pelosi was elected the first woman Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives (2007).
• The Women's March, a large-scale demonstration advocating women's rights, took place in January 2017.
• Kamala Harris was sworn in as the first female Vice President of the United States (2021).

As we navigate the start of a new year, let us remember the lessons of the past, honor the diverse traditions that connect us, and commit ourselves to building a more informed, compassionate, and just world. Whether through remembrance, celebrations, or advocacy, January reminds us that every new beginning carries the legacy of those who came before--and the responsibility to shape a better future. Let's make it a great year.

To Your Success,

Dr. Di An Sanchez, SPHR, SHRM - SCP