Women have long played an integral role in shaping public policy, yet their perspectives can be underrepresented in key discussions. To help change that, the recently reestablished student group Women in Public Policy is creating opportunities for women to lead, collaborate and advocate for policies that reflect a broader set of experiences.
In recognition of International Women’s Day, WiPP hosted its first event, “Women's Voices in Shaping Future Policy.” The event brought together students from various School of Public Policy groups to discuss the intersection of gender and policy, touching on topics like sustainability, development, education, Indigenous rights and Black women’s representation. Through open conversations, students shared their experiences, challenges and visions for the future of public policy.
WiPP was originally founded in 2002 to promote women’s leadership in policy and raise awareness of issues affecting women and girls worldwide. It provides leadership, networking, professional development, education and service opportunities to the SPP community.
Daniela Wilches, MPP student and member of the Sustainability, Energy and Environmental Council (SEEC) student group, highlighted the importance of such discussions. “Every space that brings women together is a space that should be celebrated and expanded,” she said.
Anna Miller, MPP student and member of the Social Health and Education Policy (SHEP) student group, spoke about using technology to close education gaps for women and marginalized groups. Reflecting on the collaboration between WiPP and SHEP, Miller said, “I was able to collaborate with an incredible group of women to discuss real-life problems and how we can create a difference as policymakers.”
MPP student Kianna Big Crow highlighted the importance of integrating her Indigenous heritage into policy discussions, and the impact of learning from others’ perspectives.
Rachelle Wakefield, MPP student and member of the Black Students in Public Policy (BSiPP) student group, addressed the complexities of being the “token” Black woman in policy spaces. She urged for authentic representation and shared the importance of reclaiming the totality of Black women's voices to create inclusive policies.
WiPP hopes to expand its community to include students from many fields, creating a space for women to support and empower each other in policymaking. Interested students can contact WiPP.
