Group explores women's policy issues
 

An expanded version of the former LBJ School Women's Issues Network was established at the school this year.

The group called Policy, Women and Resources (PoWeR), brought together students, faculty, staff, alumni, and members of the larger community interested in a range of issues related to women and public policy. PoWeR quickly garnered support and enthusiasm, creating an electronic mailing list, organizing events, and developing mechanisms to increase communication among policymakers and students.

With a mission that aims to support women's involvement in the policy process and ensure access to information and resources, the organization focused the year's efforts on developing an interactive web site, raising visibility, and initiating a dynamic network within the university and in the local and national communities.

According to Paula McDermott, one of PoWeR's organizers, the positive response reflected the need for a serious and sustainable forum where members of the LBJ School could share work, ideas, and resources that support women's meaningful involvement in the policy process.

"As a group we were able to discover efforts underway by students, faculty, and alumni with gender emphasis and build on each other's work," said McDermott. "We also were able to identify goals for future curriculum and infrastructure development at the LBJ School that would fill gaps and strengthen the program's appeal and utility in terms of education about--and support for--women and policy."

The dinner held March 8th to commemorate International Women's Day demonstrated the enthusiasm and collaboration inspired by the organization as more than 50 participants enjoyed food provided by members while discussing ways those at the LBJ School and in the community could link resources and efforts.

PoWeR also joined forces with the UT Austin Center for Women's Studies to participate in the Women, Leadership, and Policy series; with the Barbara Jordan Memorial Forum Committee to host a reception during the three-day forum; and with the Institute of Latin American Studies' ILASSA organization and the Brazil Center to sponsor a brown bag lunch for Brazilian Senator Marina Silva.

PoWeR launched a web site in April that will provide a central point for accessing information and exchanging ideas. One of the site's features is an extensive list of links to organizations addressing policy issues that affect women.

Comments to lbjwmast@uts.cc.utexas.edu