Message from the Executive Director

The cornerstone of our work at the Wellesley Centers for Women (WCW) is the conviction that women’s lives and perspectives matter. For 35 years we have conducted research and action projects on social policy issues of concern to women—issues that are now front and center…early child care, gender violence, work-family balance, the global imperative to address the human rights of women. Our influential work has created positive change in policy and in practice. But the original vision of the women’s movement—equality for all people—has not yet been fulfilled.

There is an urgent need for reliable research and action programs that can inform policymakers and practitioners. WCW is uniquely equipped—and perfectly positioned—to do this work. However, like other organizations dependent on the generosity of funders, we find ourselves badly pinched at just the moment when despite the economic crisis, widespread calls for change are leading to fresh opportunities. There is renewed discussion of the gender wage gap, public emphasis on equity in education, and at the White House, a new Council on Women and Girls.

Now is the time to leverage our 35 years of experience and expertise.

We need your help now to realize the promise of work already done and to move forward quickly with new critically needed research and action programs.

There is no time to waste.

Susan McGee Bailey, Ph.D.
Executive Director