John,

This is the first of a series of Reports I’ll be sending you from the Democratic National Convention in Chicago.  

Given your long-standing commitment to our shared values I want to keep you as updated as possible in these critical weeks leading up to the critical  2024 elections.

As the Democratic National Convention opened today, I witnessed enthusiasm like never before. Our EqualiTEA  event, held at the iconic Palmer House Hilton in Chicago, was overflowing with energy, passion, and commitment to equality and victory. 

More than 300 attendees packed the State Ballroom, representing a diverse coalition of activists—from those who have fought for decades to newcomers ready to make their mark.

The sense of urgency and dedication to ensuring that women and young voters are the difference-makers in 2024 was palpable.

We kicked off the event with opening remarks from Zakiya Thomas of the ERA Coalition  and Lisa Ann Walter, of the hit show Abbott Elementary setting the tone with their engaging and energizing introductions.

The room buzzed with excitement as Zakiya and I welcomed everyone and celebrated Kamala Harris’s historic candidacy and progress made toward placing the Equal Rights Amendment in the Constitution.

ERA rounds, buttons, and t-shirts were everywhere—symbols of our movement that continues to gain momentum at a time when equality and personal freedoms are under threat as never before.

As the program unfolded, an incredible lineup of speakers emphasized the stakes in this election and what we need to do to win.

• Polling expert Celinda Lake provided key insights, showing how issues like abortion rights and women’s equality are crucial in mobilizing women voters across the country.
• We then heard from powerhouse speakers like Dolores Huerta and Supervisor Hilda Solis, who emphasized the critical importance of mobilizing Latina voters, and the Hon. Betty Yee, who spoke about energizing AAPI women voters.

One of the highlights was hearing from Holli Holliday and Melanie L. Campbell on the mobilization of Black women voters—a pivotal group that has been at the forefront of change in this country.

And Madelyn Amos, our passionate college campus coordinator, reminded us that young women are ready to turn out in record numbers to protect their rights and shape their future.

The Multi-Generational Fight for the ERA

The event also focused on the multi-generational fight for the ERA, highlighting that the torch is being passed on to a new generation of leaders.

• Tina Tchen and Ambassador Carol Moseley Braun reflected on the progress we’ve made...
• ...while we also heard from leaders from the last three states to ratify the ERA: Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan, Virginia State Senator Jennifer Carroll Foy, Virginia State Delegate Charniele Herring, Nevada State Senator Pat Spearman, and Illinois Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton.

Their stories served as a powerful reminder of how far we’ve come—and how far we still have to go.

As the event came to a close, Dee Martin emceed a rousing finale, where we heard from Congresswoman Cori Bush, and Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley on the status and urgency of placing the ERA in the Constitution.

Christian Nunes, President of NOW  and law Professor Michele Bratcher Goodwin underscored the ongoing importance  and urgency of getting the ERA into the Constitution and why this fight is crucial for the future of equality in America.

Call to Action

We wrapped up with a final call to action and a shout-out for everyone to grab their t-shirts—a reminder that this movement you’ve supported is growing stronger and stronger.

Coming Attractions

In my next Reports I’ll update you on the progress we’re making toward winning critical Election 2024 contests in key battleground states.

I’ll  focus especially on our goals and progress of our Vote For Equality efforts.  You’ll recall that Vote For Equality is the political action arm of our Feminist Majority. 

Our goals for the weeks ahead are clear and urgent:

1. Electing Kamala Harris/Tim Walz to the White House
2. Holding a pro-women’s rights/pro-choice Democratic majority in the Senate
3. Flipping the House to a pro-women’s rights/pro-choice Democratic majority
4. Passing constitutional abortion rights measures in states where abortion is on the ballot

Your Role

Now is the time for EVERYONE to GET OFF THE SIDELINES and JUMP IN FOR VICTORY

It’s clear that come November every vote will count.  And we intend to make sure we  mobilize and turn out the  votes required to meet our goals.

But doing this requires everyone do their part.  Including giving money to help meet the extraordinary cost of mobilizing on key campuses in key battleground states.

So please,  help by chipping in $5, $15, $25, $50, or even $100 . Every contribution to Vote4Equality, the political action arm of the Feminist Majority, will help ensure that college students in key battleground states turn out in record numbers to vote.

In the days ahead, I will be sending you detailed reports not only from the Convention but also from our grassroots organizers out in the states. Together, we can turn this momentum into historic victories.

As always thank you for your loyalty, your commitment and  your support.

For Equality and Victory,

Ellie Smeal
President, Feminist Majority

P.S. REMEMBER:  Every vote counts, and every dollar helps. Please do what you can and contribute today.