Leaning in and Leading: Bridges to Equality
NFBPWC-USA is a national network of Business and Professional Women with global affiliation to the International Federation of Business and Professional Women (BPW International). The objectives of the National Federation are to develop the professional, business and leadership potential for women at all levels, to advocate and to strive toward equal participation of women and men in power and decision-making roles. For 2020-2022 the focus issue for NFBPWC/USA is on diversity and inclusion. Diversity is not the end goal, but a means to a more inclusive workplace for all women. And, without also making equity a part of this effort (fair pay, equitable leadership, advancement opportunities), D&I efforts can not be sustainable. Diverse groups must be respected, appreciated and able to thrive at work and in their communities.
BRIEF TIMELINE
1919: Founded by Dr. Leana Madesin Phillips, a lawyer and women’s advocate in the United States. Initially, five state and local affiliate federations/chapters joined:
- Pacific Rim International State Federation (with members in Oregon and Washington)
- California
- New York
- Paso del Norte Affiliate Chapter, El Paso, TX
- LaGrange-Chicago Affiliate Chapter, Illinois
NFBPWC-NYC is in existence and an affiliate federation of the International Federation of Business and Professional Women (IFBPW) since the 1920’s. It is also part of the North America & Caribbean Region of BPW International.
UN Relationship: As a member of BPW International, NFBPWC-USA has consultative status with the United Nations and works closely with many NGOs (non-governmental organizations) throughout the world. Most of the NFBPWC-USA UN Representatives are members of NFBPWC-NYC.
2011: Virtual Chapter formed to allow individual membership to those not living near a state or local affiliate. The Virtual Affiliate hosts educational webinars (open to all NFBPWC-USA members) throughout the year and participates in NFBPWC-USA’s Biannual Assembly, North American and the Caribbean Regional’s Biannual Conventions, BPW International’s Congresses and all other activities of NFBPWC-USA and BPW International.
2012: Pennsylvania Affiliate Chapter formed.
2013: Colorado Affiliate Federation formed.
NFBPWC-USA continues to advocate for women’s equality and is very involved with the movement to pass CEDAW and the ERA. To learn more about NFBPWC-USA visit www.nfbpwc-usa.org