2018 is finally here and we have never been more prepared, energized and ready to make history during this election cycle.
We kicked off 2018 by welcoming over 125 guests to hear from elected officials and activists, meet candidates and other politically involved women, and find channels for their political energy at our Election Year Kickoff Breakfast at Pipeline Philly.
Our speakers stole the show, offering their insight from the state capitol to the campaign trail, on how we can put our resources to best use during this election cycle. Represent Endorsed PA State Representatives Leanne Krueger-Braneky, Patty Kim and Donna Bullock shared with our guests their experiences as women candidates and legislators, and why we must do whatever it takes to elect more women to the state legislature.
“We are always so eager to pass off opportunities,” Rep. Patty Kim shared. “We have to stop passing the ball. We have to be the ones who put the points on the board. It is our time.”
Women in Pennsylvania are winning elections because of Represent donors, and organizations like Emerge PA and She Can Win. In the 2017 election cycle, Emerge PA, under the direction of Executive Director Anne Wakabayashi, had a 100% win rate, electing women to the state legislature, mayorships, council seats and school boards across the commonwealth.
“We create a network of women who help pave the way for women who come after them. When women run, women win.” said Emerge PA Executive Director Anne Wakabayashi.
Our guests also heard from grassroots organizations like Turn PA Blue and PA Together, groups that emerged out of the 2016 election, working to not only elect more Democrats across PA, but also to facilitate connections between people eager to take a more active role in our political process.
In order for us to have a successful 2018, it is going to require commitment — commitment of time, resources and donations. We asked each of our guests to fill out a Commit Card (which you can fill out too by clicking here) where they answered this simple question: What are you committed to doing in 2018? Is it volunteering on a campaign? Hosting a phone bank? Or donating money and resources to organizations like Represent PA so that we can power progressive women across the finish line in 2018?
Christine Jacobs, the Executive Director of Represent PA shared with the crowd that:
“We get the government we elect, and thus the government we deserve, and I think Pennsylvania can do better. Are you with us?”
So, are you with us? Become a Represent PA member today!
Contact Info For Speakers:
Anne Wakabayashi, Emerge PA
contact@emergepa.org
www.emergepa.org
Jasmine Sessoms, She Can Win
jasmine@shecanwin.net
www.shecanwin.net
Amy Calamari, Turn PA Blue
www.turnpablue.org
Katie Rubin, PA Together
www.patogether.org
