Hi John,

I prefer to spend the melancholic month of January in a couch cocoon, emerging only for the bare necessities—like ordering a Taco Bell Crunchwrap Supreme (extra sour cream) for breakfast.

But the National Women’s Law Center, on the other hand, has gotten right back to work—fighting for women with the vibes and vigor I can only manage by jovial July.

Just 25 days into 2023, and we’ve already teamed up with Americans United for Separation of Church and State to sue Missouri over its abortion ban—an extremist law that not only denies people equality and bodily autonomy, but also violates the separation of church and state (one of our country’s founding principles).

But all work and no champagne makes Jill (not Jack, see what I did there?) a dull girl.

As we brace ourselves for the road ahead, we will need to not only harness our rage—but also the lasting power of our joy. We saw so many gender justice wins in 2022, so let’s take a moment to relish in them!

For example, the fact that nearly every state did something good for child care in 2022. One especially exciting victory? In New Mexico, almost every single family is now eligible for child care assistance. Let’s hope other states soon follow suit!

It’s 2023, and We’re Still Failing Black Women.

“I don’t feel like I want to be on this earth. I wish he would have just shot and killed me, if I knew I would have to go through this torture.”

Those heart-wrenching words come from the court testimony of rapper Megan Thee Stallion, who was shot by singer Tory Lanez in 2020.

Though Tory was finally convicted in December, it is unconscionable to say that Megan got any real justice. Because for two relentless years, millions of people have doubted, mocked, slut-shamed, and victim-blamed Megan, driving her to the brink of suicide.

What Megan’s case makes abundantly clear is that, in every aspect of American life, Black women remain unprotected.

A New Year’s resolution that the National Women’s Law Center remains committed to—every day of every year—is centering Black women in our pursuit of gender justice.

For Megan and every other Black woman who can see themselves in her story, they must be a priority—not a postscript.

Must-Do's:

• And as this year has already shown far too often, we are also facing an epidemic of both gun violence and anti-Asian violence. Get involved and learn more at the Giffords Law Center and Stop AAPI Hate.
• For the first time in 50 years, we aren’t celebrating the anniversary of Roe v. Wade. Read how you can do your part in the battle for a new future for abortion access.
• Congress is back in session. It’s (past!) time they take action on gender justice issues.

Must-Reads:

• More GOOD NEWS!
  • The Respect for Marriage Act has been signed into law!
  • The Biden administration is fighting back against the Trump-era rule that greenlit discrimination in health care.
  • Despite enduring racism and sexual harassment at work, women have bravely stayed at the very companies they are fighting to change, ensuring their struggles don’t repeat for the next generation.
• Virginia wants to forcibly out trans students. This young woman is fighting back.
• The FDA (finally) changed the packaging on Plan B—making it clear that it does not cause abortions, a bold-faced lie perpetrated by (purposefully dumb) extremists.
• New research shows that school police have assaulted—or killed—Black and Latine students in 285 cases. How can we claim they’re “keeping our schools safe”?
• Somehow, the gender wage gap still exists (ew). But new pay transparency laws could help.

• You know when you get a Dum-Dum, and there’s a mystery flavor. That’s what this recommended read is. Could be cherry, could be fruit punch, but will be worthwhile either way.

Frivolous Fun

In my first email to y’all, I mentioned that I love a late-night, languishing stroll—preferably under warm-toned streetlamps, and definitely while listening to music so sad it feels like your heart is being wrung out (dramatic, I know).

That’s why I’m thrilled (or delightfully devastated) that my three favorite sad girl singers have reunited as a SAD GIRL BAND! This new song is the latest on my late-night cue.

And if you need a pick-me-up after you’ve listened, celebrate the fact that, just last week, we got one step closer to creating more equitable and affordable housing opportunities for everyone!

Feminist Moment of Joy

BREAKING NEWS: Congress actually… did its job?!

🎉🎉🎉At the end of December—and after 10 years of NWLC’s tireless advocacy— the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act has FINALLY passed.🎉🎉🎉

That means basic accommodations (like… being able to use the bathroom) must be provided to all pregnant workers. And it proves that, even when it takes far longer than it should, progress is still possible.

Speaking of change and progress, I have one final question for you:

Where do you hope to find more joy in 2023?

I’ll share my answer next time, and as always, I can’t wait to hear yours 😊

Gemma Simoes Decarvalho
she/her/hers
Writer and Editor
National Women’s Law Center