She Matters

Gwen’s Girls and The Black Girls Equity Alliance present The 7th Annual Equity Summit and Awards Ceremony centering on youth voices for systemic change.  The event takes place on September 29th (virtually) and September 30th (in-person) at the Sheraton Pittsburgh Hotel at Station Square.  She Matters is dedicated to protecting and uplifting the well-being of Black girls in our community.

The 2-day event begins at 10:00 am with a Youth Kickoff followed by speakers and panel discussions.  The BGEA’s workgroup conveners will share their current efforts and the policy shifts necessary to implement change for Black girls in our key issue areas: health and wellness, juvenile justice, education, and child welfare.  On Thursday evening, enjoy celebrations, music, and fun at the 7th Annual See the Best in Me Awards Ceremony and Reception.

Friday’s event kicks off at 7:00 am with low-impact chair yoga followed by breakout workshops, a fireside chat, and an amazing panel of speakers.  Breakfast and lunch is included throughout the day, and guests will have a chance to celebrate at the closing reception.

Featured speakers during the 2-day event include Dr. Monique W. Morris, Ed. D, author of Cultivating Joyful Learning Spaces for Black Girls (featuring on Sept. 29th) and Joanne N. Smith, founding President and CEO of Girls for Gender Equity (featuring on Sept. 30th). 

Left: Dr.Monique W. Morris, Ed. D., photo courtesy of Facebook Right: Joanne N. Smith, photo courtesy of Facebook

Gwen’s Girls was founded by Gwen Elliott in 2002 to give girls the gender-responsive programs and services they desperately needed after witnessing the struggles of young women and girls who came to the attention of law enforcement.  Their mission is to empower girls and young women to have productive lives through holistic, gender-specific programs, education, and experiences.

To register for this event and to view the full schedule, click here.

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