HAPPY NEW YEAR, Friends!

I hope this moment finds you as filled with hope and possibility as I am. While last year was filled with accomplishments for us here at WCW, it was also a year of change and transition. Thank you for being a friend on the journey, every step of the way!

Against this backdrop, there were so many social and political issues lighting up our screens (whether computer, phone, or television) last year—everything from #BlackLivesMatter and #SayHerName, to Planned Parenthood, to the Syrian refugee crisis, to ISIS and the Paris terror attacks, mass shootings here in the U.S., and, of course, the beginning of the 2016 election cycle. It was a year without rest from the issues, a year that made us reflect even more deeply about our work and its purpose in the larger world. We are committed, along with you, to making a difference in the world in 2016.

I am glad that we at WCW have dedicated ourselves to such enduring issues as education, economic security, mental health, youth and adolescent development, and gender-based violence, because these topics are always relevant, and our work, as a result, can always inform positive social change—not only for women and girls, but also for their families and communities, in all their diversity, around the world. I’m so thankful that you stand with us in doing this work.

Over the next year, we’ll be showcasing how our special brand of women- and gender-focused research can inform the next President of the United States. In March—Women’s History Month—look for a special issue of our Women’s Review of Books that features recommended reading for the next President. As the year goes on and we inch closer to the election, look for more from our researchers and scholars as they share their policy recommendations for the next administration. Last but not least, stay tuned later in the year for an announcement about a related event that will occur early in 2017 …

In the months ahead, I can’t wait to share with you “the latest” from WCW—new research findings from our researchers, new project developments from our action programs, and news from my travels around the world and all the places I go to spread the WCW message, and, if I’m lucky, to meet you. Stay tuned via our website, social media, and eNews for these updates and more! 2016 promises to be a great year!

With gratitude, love, and peace,

Layli

Layli Maparyan

P.S. Your generosity is always needed and appreciated. Thank you.