USWCC Home >> National Congress Home >> What is it?

What is the National Congress for the Economic Advancement of Women?

The USWCC National Congress on the Economic Advancement of Women will formally convene on November 15, 2006 in Washington, D.C. and in offices and homes across the U.S. to launch a large, unified push towards advancing economic opportunities for American women.

We believe it is time to come together and say, "The status quo must go!" Our mantra for the future is, "Change, progress and opportunity." We have been lulled (and marketed…) into accepting our current economic levels. But, not any more.

Here is how the National Congress works:

1. Commitment to change: The U.S. Women's Chamber of Commerce is bringing together leaders, researchers, national and local organizations and individuals to commit to top economic issues and steps to progress.
    
2. Working together: We will meet with leaders, researchers and national organizations prior to the November 15, 2006 congress to clearly layout data, issues and strategic leverage points that can be used to begin moving women forward towards stronger economic gains.
    
3. Local grassroots participation: We will outreach to local leaders and organizations to work with us to be part of the National Congress and to implement actions and advocacy locally and nationally.
    
4. November 15th official launch: On November 15, 2006 we will hold a press conference at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C. followed by a national teleconference and webinar. This will be the first bringing together of women and organizations from many regions and focus areas on a national scope to work in coordinated fashion towards clear economic objectives.
    
5. Action Plans: Local organizations and individuals will commit to supporting specific elements of the plan - being part of the whole effort. Each individual will commit to steps and actions taking our economic movement forward.
    
6. Monthly Gathering: Every month we will come together to communicate, report and motivate as we work together to advance this new economic movement for the women of the U.S.
    
7. Online Communities and Local Communities: Participating organizations and local leaders may also hold specific women's economic movement meetings on their own. The USWCC will advertise these opportunities and link the community through online community areas and email notifications.
    
8. Measurement: We will report regularly with specific gains and failures – seeking to hold us all accountable. We seek advancement, not hype and meetings. The National Congress on the Economic Advancement of Women seeks action – and assesses progress through measurements.

How can you take part?

Individuals: Individuals may serve as delegates to the congress by committing to taking action to support our goals. You are welcome whether you have time to be very active – or modestly active. The point is – be part of the movement – and take action. Be a delegate and do at least one thing to help us create real progress.

Individual leaders: The National Congress has several areas of focus. We are looking for national and local caucus leaders to help us advance our efforts throughout all markets. To be a caucus leader, you must have time to actively outreach to your community and advance our activities in your region. We are looking for teams of caucus leaders in all regions of the U.S.

Membership Organizations and Associations: Organizations may take part and be officially recognized by the USWCC and the National Congress on the Economic Advancement of Women. We want your organization to be part of this effort – it is important that we break down the walls of "membership" and "corporate sponsors" so that we can get down to the business of making change. Join us – we will recognize you and invite you to lead the charge within your organizations – and your communities.

Research Organizations: We welcome research organizations that are actively involved in economic issues to be part of the National Congress. We ask you to provide us with insights into issues and potential strategies for progress.

Elected Officials: We invite you to commit to our goals and advance our cause where legislation and influence is required. It is time that we advance our needs and seek your support rather than being rallied to give money to advance the political status quo. Join us – together we will make real change.

Media: We ask the media to take an active part reporting the real economic data on women. We ask you to verify the facts when you are reprinting press releases offered by corporations or corporate funded non-profits and politicians. Consider us a quick and reliable source for fact-checking your stories. We're here to help you report the truth - not the corporate hype.

Join the Revolution: Step up now!

If you believe there is work to be done to bring women greater economic opportunities and retirement security, then please join the revolution now.