Throughout my life many have asked me who I consider to be a role model, and I have noted many times that I am an admirer of Eleanor Roosevelt.  Mrs. Roosevelt spent her life advocating for fairness in wage and hour laws, equal treatment for all, and access to the tools working families needed to emerge from the Depression. She also made progress for women in creative and effective ways. For example, as First Lady, she began calling press conferences, but would only permit female reporters attend.  The media scrambled to send women to cover the First Lady’s remarks, and the result was a strong, active women’s press corps covering White House activity for years.

Eleanor Roosevelt's work and mission align with the messages of International Women’s Day, which we recognize today as a celebration of “the economic, political and social achievements of women past, present and future.”  The focus of this year’s International Women’s Day is standing united to end violence against women and girls.

Every single day around the world, women and girls are victims of verbal abuse, domestic violence, stalking, sexual and physical assault, human trafficking, and so many other acts of violence that many choose to ignore.  While progress has been made, there is much more that needs to be done to ensure the safety, well-being and respect of all women and girls.

On this International Women’s Day, consider giving your time and talents to an organization with this mission in mind.  Spend an hour on a weekend volunteering at a women’s shelter, or use your skills to organize a food drive for a local food bank, or donate a few extra dollars to a worthy non-profit organization dedicated to ending human trafficking.

Upon Mrs. Roosevelt’s death, she was remembered by the words of Adlai Stevenson -  “She would rather light candles than curse the darkness, and her glow has warmed the world."   Join with women around the globe and make an impact this International Women’s Day to end violence against women.