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The History of BPW-[Your State] History Of Business and Professional Women/USA
While mobilizing for World War I, the U.S. Government recognized the need for a cohesive group to coordinate identification of women's available skills and experience. A Women's War Council, financed through a federal grant, was established by the War Department to organize the resources of professional women. The National Federation of Business and Professional Women's Clubs was founded on July 15, 1919.
Throughout the years, three major issues shaped BPW's legislative agenda: elimination of sex discrimination in employment, the principle of equal pay, and the need for a comprehensive equal rights amendment. Individuals may join BPW through a local organization which comes together for regular meetings and special programs, as a student member, or a member-at-large. Members are encouraged to meet new people, network professionally, share career strategies, and to work on legislative and social issues of importance to women. Overview of Important Dates BPW first formally endorsed ratification of the Equal Rights Amendment on July 17, 1937. President John F. Kennedy signs the 1963 Equal Pay Act into law as 1962/63 BPW president Dr. Minnie Miles watches. Dr. Miles received the first pen from the signing. 1979/80 BPW President Julie K. Arri reports to President Jimmy Carter on the findings of the BPW commissioned Lou Harris poll of unratified ERA states. To underscore the economic inequity women face in their jobs BPW launched its Red Purse Campaign with the theme "Better Pay for Women" in 1987.
*new* Domain Hosting Service Provider, Globalnet GNP and BPW/USA partner in their Web Presence Rewards programs which will provide all local organizations nationwide with their own individual website at no charge. Any member who refers new web hosting clients to GNP will reward their local organization with scholarships and a 25% lifetime monthly donation on all revenue from each client. For more information, please visit www.bpwonline.com |
