Atlanta's Mayor Andre Dickens has put the spotlight on women's issues, as he sets up the city's inaugural Women of Atlanta Advisory Council. A heavyweight team of local ladies is picked to head the committee, bringing experience from philanthropy to politics. They're rolling up their sleeves to tackle inequalities spanning healthcare to the workplace, all aimed at improving the lives of the city's women.
With gender-based discrimination and the wage gap still heavy weights on the scales of justice, the Council's creation is timely. "The urgent issues impacting women today, including maternal health, gender-based discrimination, equitable housing and the wage gap are at the forefront of our priorities and demand immediate attention," Mayor Dickens outlined, according to the City of Atlanta's statement. This commitment is part of his strategy to drive change and support the entire community, Atlanta's women especially.
For the Council, it's not just about today but weaving the narrative of yesterday's women who helped sculpt the city. Set to collaborate closely with the Mayor's Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, the Council will be spearheading a year-long initiative to honor and celebrate the role of women in Atlanta's history, present, and future.
The driving force behind the council includes an impressive array of honorary chairs. We see Stephanie Blank of GEEARS, retired IBM exec Ann W. Cramer, and Shan Cooper of Journey Forward Strategies, leading the charge, shared the announcement. Former Mayor Shirley Franklin is on board too, alongside Sharon A. Gay of Dentons and Jewel Burks Solomon of Collab Capital, all lending their expertise to shed light on the women who anchor Atlanta's families and enterprises.
This group's mission is to create tangible results that will inspire the city and beyond. Their work promises to foster a culture of celebration and recognition, while putting substantive support mechanisms in place for women who play a crucial role in the city's fabric. Geared to make a difference, the Advisory Council has its sight set firmly on creating equal opportunities and shrugging off the historical shackles that have held back half the population for far too long.
