Women Are on The Front Lines of COVID-19

As the days of the week all blend together, and time seems to both speed up and slow down from moment to moment, we’re finding that establishing routines and schedules help structure our days and keep ourselves emotionally grounded.  

I’m hearing from NOW members that these weekly emails are a welcome feature, and I appreciate the opportunity to share with you some of what I’m reading and seeing online—and also to update you on what NOW is doing to advance our issues during this unprecedented national—and international–emergency. 

Speaking of the world beyond our borders, this headline from the Washington Post caught my attention: “Female world leaders hailed as voices of reason amid the coronavirus chaos.”  Well, of course! 

And another story in the New York Times addresses a topic you and I understand very well: “How Millions of Women Became the Most Essential Workers in America” 

For more compelling, empowering reading, I’m thrilled to announce the launch of NOW’s new Feminist Book Club on our Facebook page.  This is a space for discussion so that we may learn from one another and build a movement together.  This month’s reading is “The Twelve Tribes of Hattie” by Ayana Mathis.  Please join the conversation here.   

As you know, NOW is actively engaged in the urgent effort to address the crisis faced by domestic violence and sexual assault survivors and the programs that serve them.  NOW has joined a coalition that is circulating this letter to Congress outlining steps they can take to support survivors and advocates. And here again is the contact information for the National Domestic Violence Hotline, which is available 24/7 at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233).  

We also urge you to check out our own regularly updated COVID-19 Resource Page for fact sheets, upcoming webinars and policy updates. 

Finally, I’ve been a longtime supporter and admirer of New Moon Girls Magazine, the award-winning, ad-free print and online community for girls who want their voices heard and their dreams taken seriously.  Here’s a message I received from Nancy Gruver, New Moon’s Founder. 

And how about just a few more jokes from… My Self-Isolation Quarantine Diary (a friend sent me these and it put a smile on my face) 

Day 7 – I get to take the garbage out. I’m so excited, I can’t decide what to wear. 
Day 8 – Laughing way too much at my own jokes!! 
Day 9 – Went to a new restaurant called “The Kitchen”. You have to gather all the ingredients and make your own meal. I have no clue how this place is still in business.
Day 10 – Struck up a conversation with a Spider today. Seems nice. He’s a Web Designer.

Until next week, stay safe, stay healthy, and stay connected.  Remember—we’re all in this together!