Being an Ally to Women and Marginalized Communities

/ News / By

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Kate Zielsdorf Baker,

Communications and Program Associate

Phone: (484) 356-0940

E-mail: katherine@ccfwg.org

Being an Ally to Women and Marginalized Communities

(West Chester) December 20, 2016 — The Chester County Fund for Women and Girls hosted a panel discussion on being an ally to women and marginalized communities on Wednesday, December 14th. Around fifty people joined the Chester County Fund for Women and Girls for this exceptional conversation.

Maia Tolsdorf, Chair of CCFWG’s Education Committee, moderated the panel that focused on 1) heightened concerns in Chester County following the election; 2) actions taken in response; and 3) ways individuals and the community can support those experiencing anxiety, perception of increased vulnerability and discrimination. Panelists included women who are leaders in their field:

  • Caroline Cupp, Associate Pastor for Caregiving and Mission at First Presbyterian Church of West Chester
  • Lisa Fraser, Associate Director of Education at Planned Parenthood of Southeastern Pennsylvania
  • Homa Tavangar, best-selling author and adviser to organizations on inclusion and global citizenship
  • Dolly Wideman-Scott, Executive Director of the Domestic Violence Center of Chester County
  • Aneesah Smith, Assistant to the Vice President for Student Affairs for LGBTQA Services and Special Projects at West Chester University
  • Nina Guzman, Executive Director of Alianzas de Phoenixville

The panelists provided information on what they are seeing in the community as well as concrete suggestions and information about effective advocacy. The session helped audience participants gain empathy, understanding and ways to respond to protect the rights of women and marginalized communities. Panelist Dolly Wideman-Scott noted how critical it is “to sustain current gains and educate others to protect vulnerable women and their families.” Listening, understanding and information are the keys to being an ally. Attendees applauded the exceptional group of women.

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The Chester County Fund for Women and Girls leads and unites the community through philanthropy and advocacy to ensure that women and girls have resources and opportunities to thrive. For more than 18 years, the Fund has raised awareness about the critical needs of women and girls, and has awarded over $2.6 million to 69 non-profit organizations. To learn more about the Chester County Fund for Women and Girls, visit www.ccfwg.org.