It’s hard to believe it’s been a year since we created the Democratic Women’s Alliance. Over the past 365 days, the DWA engaged with women across the country and armed nearly 400 women with the tools to lead their communities in the fight for women’s rights.

I don’t need to list all the ways we’ve seen Republicans work systematically to move us backwards on women’s rights. From reproductive freedom to equal pay, Republicans have consistently voted against expanding equality and opportunity for women. And when they aren’t actively blocking legislation that will benefit millions of American women, they’re insulting them with offensive ads and rhetoric — they actually thought comparing women’s votes to choosing a wedding dress was a good idea.

The annual Women’s Leadership Forum’s National Issues Conference is one way the Democratic Women’s Alliance is empowering women to take steps toward ending these harmful policies and furthering political involvement. Women from across the country gathered in Washington D.C. this September, where they heard from leaders like President Obama, First Lady Michelle Obama, Vice President Biden, Dr. Jill Biden, Hillary Clinton, Wisconsin gubernatorial candidate Mary Burke, and more.  We held trainings on online organizing, fundraising, and working in politics, heard from expert panels, and shared our own experiences with one another. In addition to big conferences and trainings, we also make regular updates on issues important to women through our Twitter, @DNCWomen (if you don’t follow us, you should!).

It’s no secret: When the voices of women are heard, things get better for everyone.  That’s why we’re encouraging everyone – women and men alike – to commit to vote this November. It’s vital that we both celebrate the progress we’ve made and continue our work to mobilize women, engage women voters, and train Democratic leaders. And the first step in doing that is by turning out the vote.
 
Why are you voting this November? I’m committing to vote because I want a Congress that fights for working families. Share your reason at commit2vote.com, and make sure to get it out there on Facebook and Twitter.

Here’s to a great first year. Thanks for all your help.