On September 18th, we lost one of the strongest fighters for women’s rights, civil rights, and reproductive rights in modern history – Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. From co-founding the ACLU’s Women’s Rights Project, to writing the court’s 7-1 opinion declaring that the Virginia Military Institute could no longer remain an all-male institution, to becoming the chief architect of the battle for women’s legal rights, Ginsburg broke down every wall that stood in her way and in the way of all women. She was a tireless force and pioneering advocate who revolutionized the gender equality movement.

During her 27 years on the Supreme Court, Justice Ginsburg demonstrated leadership grounded in courage, logical reasoning, perseverance, resilience, empathic listening, and humility.  She never once wavered in her determination to protect the rights and freedoms of every single person in this country, even when she was battling cancer. She was, and will always be, a role model for women and girls across the country who used her intellectual power to build consensus on the Supreme Court and win cases that protected the rights and freedoms of all women which ultimately strengthened our democracy.

In 2019, WOMEN’S WAY honored Betsy West and Julie Cohen for their documentary RBG at the 42nd Annual Celebration. Julie Cohen spoke at the event and shared many amazing stories about what a wonderful wife, mother and grandmother RBG was while also being a trailblazer and tireless advocate for equality and justice. It was a gift to honor Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg through honoring these two amazing filmmakers.

During this divisive time in our country where those in political power are working to undo the work of RBG and jeopardize the rights and freedoms of women, we must stand united more than ever for justice. Like RBG, we much channel our fears and anger into thoughtful action. WOMEN’S WAY will continue to honor – and fight to – protect her unwavering legacy by strengthening our efforts to advance gender equity. We will continue to work with our many partners to break down barriers of injustice so that all women and girls thrive. We will continue to speak up for reproductive rights, women’s safety, economic justice, and gender and racial equity. We will continue the work of RBG until all women and girls have the freedom and opportunities to excel and realize their dreams.

Together, we must continue Justice Ginsburg’s legacy because our lives depend on it.

In solidarity,

Diane Cornman-Levy

Executive Director

WOMEN’S WAY