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Celebrating Women in Municipal Government

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Celebrating Women in Municipal Government

Source: National League of Cities

In honor of Women’s History Month, the National League of Cities (NLC) reached out to members of the Women in Municipal Government (WIMG) Constituency Group to share their personal reflections on the impact and importance of women serving in local government. These women leaders, who serve as mayors, council members and other local government officials, spoke candidly about the importance of recognizing women’s contributions to society and advancing gender equity in municipal governance.

How Do You Think Women’s Voices Have Changed the Landscape of Policy and Governance?

“Making up half of the world’s population, women should feel confident to become elected leaders who practice compassion, lead with integrity and build on the legacy of those who pave the way for a more equal and just society. Together we can work to eliminate discriminatory barriers and empower younger generations to feel like they can and should run for local office.”

Councilwoman Dr. Adriana Rocha Garcia, San Antonio, TX – District 4, WIMG President

“Women’s voices have reshaped policy and governance by bringing resilience, wisdom and a commitment to progress—even in the face of adversity. Our presence in government expands perspectives, drives meaningful change and sets new standards for leadership, proving that dignity and determination will always outlast the storms we face.”

Council President, D.M. Collins, Center Point, AL, WIMG Board Member

“Women’s representation at the leadership table is critical to ensure inclusion when discussing community issues. Through lived experiences, women often lead discussions to the establishment of more comprehensive policies that address the needs of ALL citizens.”

Alderman Carol Bell, Savannah, GA, WIMG Board Member

“Women promote cooperation, consensus-building, and focus on common goals through participatory leadership. They advocate for social issues that are often overlooked such as education, domestic violence prevention and child welfare.”

Councilmember Jan Arbuckle, Grass Valley, CA, WIMG Past President

“The increasing involvement of women in policy and governance not only enriches governance processes but also leads to more equitable and just outcomes for all members of society. Women bring diverse perspectives, tend to focus on social issues, have collaborative and consensus-building leadership styles, are role models that inspire future generations and encourage more women to engage in politics and governance.” 

Mayor Debra Wimpee, Broken Arrow, OK, WIMG Board Member

“As more women are elected to serve in government positions, we will have more influence over public decisions. Working together, women have been able to make decisions that impact health, employment, housing and more by taking time to ask questions and study the issues.”

Councilmember Susan Honda, Federal Way, WA, WIMG Board Member

Read here the full article published by the National League of Cities on 27 March 2025.

Image by National League of Cities

 

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Nationa League of Cities

In honor of Women’s History Month, the National League of Cities (NLC) reached out to members of the Women in Municipal Government (WIMG) Constituency Group to share their personal reflections on the impact and importance of women serving in local government. These women leaders, who serve as mayors, council members and other local government officials, spoke candidly about the importance of recognizing women’s contributions to society and advancing gender equity in municipal governance.

How Do You Think Women’s Voices Have Changed the Landscape of Policy and Governance?

“Making up half of the world’s population, women should feel confident to become elected leaders who practice compassion, lead with integrity and build on the legacy of those who pave the way for a more equal and just society. Together we can work to eliminate discriminatory barriers and empower younger generations to feel like they can and should run for local office.”

Councilwoman Dr. Adriana Rocha Garcia, San Antonio, TX – District 4, WIMG President

“Women’s voices have reshaped policy and governance by bringing resilience, wisdom and a commitment to progress—even in the face of adversity. Our presence in government expands perspectives, drives meaningful change and sets new standards for leadership, proving that dignity and determination will always outlast the storms we face.”

Council President, D.M. Collins, Center Point, AL, WIMG Board Member

“Women’s representation at the leadership table is critical to ensure inclusion when discussing community issues. Through lived experiences, women often lead discussions to the establishment of more comprehensive policies that address the needs of ALL citizens.”

Alderman Carol Bell, Savannah, GA, WIMG Board Member

“Women promote cooperation, consensus-building, and focus on common goals through participatory leadership. They advocate for social issues that are often overlooked such as education, domestic violence prevention and child welfare.”

Councilmember Jan Arbuckle, Grass Valley, CA, WIMG Past President

“The increasing involvement of women in policy and governance not only enriches governance processes but also leads to more equitable and just outcomes for all members of society. Women bring diverse perspectives, tend to focus on social issues, have collaborative and consensus-building leadership styles, are role models that inspire future generations and encourage more women to engage in politics and governance.” 

Mayor Debra Wimpee, Broken Arrow, OK, WIMG Board Member

“As more women are elected to serve in government positions, we will have more influence over public decisions. Working together, women have been able to make decisions that impact health, employment, housing and more by taking time to ask questions and study the issues.”

Councilmember Susan Honda, Federal Way, WA, WIMG Board Member

Read here the full article published by the National League of Cities on 27 March 2025.

Image by National League of Cities

 

News
Focus areas