In the global struggle for human rights, the fight for women's autonomy and rights as equals are often given short shrift. IWDC gives women in a voice in politics and government and makes them visible, empowered participants in patriarchal societies. IWDC gives women the power to change their destinies, the lives of their families, and to play important roles in politics, economics, education, etc. The organization does a superb job of informing the public of the plight of women and in getting things done. They make things happen quickly and create lasting change that has a rippling effect in the communities and countries they serve.
Although there are many deserving organizations that compete for time & money, I find it easy to respond to emergency needs, while ignoring the systemic problems of societies that undervalue women. The IWDC focuses on the heart of the matter. When women are trained to be politically active at the grassroots level, their influence "trickles up", and permeates the whole society. I will always attempt to respond to urgent needs for food, shelter & medical supplies, but one of my "five guineas" will be spent at the heart of the problem, with an organization that works to change power structures and attitudes.
I continue to be impressed with the training and opportunities this organization provides for young women to develop effective political and community leadership skills. Through programs such as CAMP, which promotes peace through training women from strife-ridden areas in public policy and advocacy skills, and the Pipeline Project, which trains young women in how to effectively shape public policy debate in politics and their communities, IWDC is empowering women to address the challenging issues of our day in a meaningful way.