I am sure many of us have heard the phrase “necessity is the mother of invention.” I mention this because, when we think of Mother’s Day, our thoughts are often literal. We think of a woman who conceives, gives birth to, or raises a child. But a mother is also someone who protects and nurtures, or someone who holds influence, control, or authority.
I feel that Plato’s phrase is very appropriate for AAUW and its mission. That the state of women’s equality as it was, and as it is, necessitated the creation of an organization that could protect the rights of women facing discrimination. Through fellowships and grants, AAUW also nurtures the unique and creative ideas aspiring women have. And we serve as a champion for women’s causes in Washington and abroad through an immense grassroots network of advocacy.
In many ways AAUW can be seen as a mother in a sense of the word. I hope when you think of Mother’s Day, you think beyond the literal definition to women who are leaders in your branch or state, or to someone in your community. Women of influence who galvanize and lead or who make their voices heard by taking action. When you think of celebrating these “mothers”, consider honoring them through AAUW’s Mother’s Day campaign in lieu of traditional gifts. This campaign goes directly to our fellowships and grants program that gives women the ability to succeed. Whether or not you have or are raising children, here’s your chance to nurture, love, and support other women everywhere, as mothers do.
