"Democracy is not designed for any of us to sit on the sidelines." ~Nevada Littlewolf
Nevada Littlewolf wasn't planning on running for office, although many asked her too. But she realized as a Native American women and a mother that the issues concerning her were not being addressed in the community. Following the famous words, "If not you then who, if not now then when?" she took a leap of faith and as she put it "jumped off the cliff" and into the world of politics.
Nevada was the youngest and first American Indian women elected to the city council of Virginia, Minnesota. Following the participation in two TWHP trainings, Nevada now works as the Rural Leadership Field Organizer for The White House Project.
We are thrilled to include Nevada Littlewolf and Liz Johnson, also with TWHP in the line-up for the 2nd Annual Passion Into Action Conference. These two incredible women will represent The White House Project by leading three workshops at the event:
Raising Money in Rural Communities: Fundraising in rural communities presents unique challenges and opportunities. Take a look around your community, hear what is working in other communities, and feel supported in making a plan to help you succeed. Learn tips and strategize with others about how to tap into your current networks and look for ways to find and find and tap new resources.
Blueprint for Change: Whether you are running a campaign for yourself or another person, strategizing to raise awareness about an issue, or aiming to win a legislative victory - this hands-on session will help you blueprint a plan of action that works! Take inventory of your assets, allies, research, community, funds, and message to get organized and succeed.
From Plate to Politics: What key ingredient can stir up change in our food system? More women in leadership roles that influence agriculture and food policy change, from rallying for school lunch reform to launching new organic farming enterprises. Come for a crash course in issues and opportunities that face women in agriculture and together sow seeds for cultivating this inspiring
movement.
In addition to co-leading three workshops Nevada is opening for Nina Simons Friday April 29th at the event.
Nevada shares with us her mission to advance women in leadership, why it's so important to connect with women right now and the effect girls and women are creating in the world.
1. What is your personal mission or passion that is helping to re-shape the future?
My personal mission is to help advance a richly diverse critical mass of women leaders in our communities and in politics to improve decision making and problem solving of the issues facing our world today. Women leaders bring a wealth of untapped knowledge and experience that will invariably provide a brighter future for generations.
2. Describe a significant moment or experience that inspired your personal mission or passion to make a difference?
Seeing women in my own community who are leading some of the best and most innovative programs and policy work in our country inspires me. Because of this, I want to do more to seek systemic change to institutionalize and realize the work of human rights, environmental, economic justice and anti-violence movements. I know I can lead in elective office and I always support other women candidates who represent values that support women.
3. What do you hope will be the biggest take-aways for the attendees who participate in your workshops?
I hope women will be inspired to take their leadership to the next level and walk away with ideas, tools and inspiration to take the next step toward not only their own leadership goals but the goals and aspirations of women they know.
4. How do you see women and girls in the local and global communities affecting the future?
It is "our" time and more and more than ever the world is looking to women to help lead solutions to complex problems facing our communities, our country and the world. I see more and more women being invited to run and when they do run, they will win in significant numbers. Women and girls must be in the seats of leadership. On average nationally, women currently represent only 17% of political leadership. When we reach gender parity in leadership, we will truly have a lasting affect on our own destinies.
5. Why is it so important to participate in groups and events that connect women and feature their talents, ideas and solutions right now?
Attending conferences like See Jane Do is a great way to gather the ideas, inspiration and networks you will need to succeed in reaching your goals. Networking and building social capital are vital to achieving your personal leadership goals; hearing about the great work that other women are doing builds on the great work you are doing in your community. There really are not enough opportunities for women to come together in this way. Culitivate, cross-pollinate, and grow something amazing!
5. What is your message to women around the world?
Run for elective office or at the very least find and help another woman to achieve elective office. Democracy is not designed for any of us to sit on the sidelines.
To participate in The White House Project workshops click here to register for Passion Into Action or go to www.seejanedo.com.
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