Dear Families Rising community,
As we embrace August, a month rich with historical significance, I’m filled with a mix of gratitude and determination. This month, we celebrate both Women’s Equality Day and the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples, reminding us of the long struggles for recognition and rights that continue to shape our world.
On August 26th, we commemorated Women’s Equality Day, marking the 19th Amendment’s ratification in 1920. This hard-won victory for women’s suffrage came after decades of tireless advocacy. However, it’s crucial to remember that for Black women, the fight for voting rights extended far beyond 1920, with many unable to freely exercise this right until the Voting Rights Act of 1965. As we reflect on these milestones, let’s also recognize the work that remains in achieving true equality for all women, especially in fields like child welfare where women’s voices are crucial.
Earlier in the month, on August 9th, we observed the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples. With nearly 476 million Indigenous People worldwide representing 5,000 distinct cultures, their fight for recognition and rights resonates deeply with our mission in child welfare.
These observances underscore a fundamental truth in our work: progress requires persistence, and every voice matters. It’s a sentiment beautifully captured in a recent article entitled: From many Native Americans, the 4th of July whitewashes historyOpens in a new tabOpens in a new tab, by Kendra LowdenOpens in a new tabOpens in a new tab, which I urge you all to read. Kendra’s insights remind us that in child welfare, as in the broader struggle for equality, we must continually strive to amplify marginalized voices and challenge systemic barriers.
As we move forward, let’s carry the spirit of these observances into our daily work. Let’s ensure that our efforts in child welfare are inclusive, culturally responsive, and always centered on the diverse needs of the families we serve.
Thank you for your unwavering commitment to this crucial work. Together, we can create a more equitable future for all children and families.
Be Well,
Ligia