Acknowledging Women's History Month and on International Women's Day, the Montgomery County Board of Commissioners announced the 2024 launch of the Montgomery County Commission for Women. Applications are now open for community members who support the mission of enhancing the status of women and girls in Montgomery County.

            "The Commission for Women will be a platform for assessing and guiding the County's efforts to enhance services for women and girls across various demographics," stated Jamila H. Winder, chair of the Montgomery County board of commissioners. "We aim to pinpoint and boost opportunities for women in business and entrepreneurship, address bias and discrimination, and foster safe communities promoting gender equality and eradicating violence against women. Diverse perspectives on the Commission are crucial for achieving these objectives."

            "Beyond celebrating Women's History Month and recognizing well-deserved history makers, I most look forward to implementing policies that address the issues that greatly affect women and girls," said Montgomery County Commissioner Neil Makhija. "We are committed to expanding paid family leave and increasing access to affordable childcare, addressing domestic violence, and disparate maternal health outcomes. Empowering women empowers everyone in our communities, so the work of the Commission for Women is absolutely critical to all of Montgomery County."

            "When we're making decisions at the County level, we need to make sure that our policies are uplifting everyone," said Montgomery County Commissioner Tom DiBello. "It's valuable to have forums such as the Commission for Women advising on how policies affect women and girls, as well as providing input on the kinds of research we should be doing to address barriers to success. I encourage anyone who is interested in being involved to apply."

            The goal of the Commission is to represent the interests and concerns of women of all races, ages, ethnic and social backgrounds, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, ability and social circumstances. The Commission will encompass the concerns and needs of women, girls, and those who identify as female.

            The commission is open to any community member who lives or works in Montgomery County and who wants a role and a voice in improving the lives of women in Montgomery County. Members will serve for an initial two-year term and will meet at least every other month. The county is seeking to appoint up to 21 people, with applications open now through March 28.

            To apply for or nominate someone for the Commission, visit www.montgomerycountypa.gov/CommissionforWomen.