Public Policy/International Relations

What We Do

We work to inform members about the current Public Policy Priorities of AAUW which serve to advance gender equity for women and girls. Speakers and forums promote public discussion of these topics as well as information related to current ballot issues. Some of the topics covered are pay equity, educational opportunities, enforcement of Title IX, and affirmative action.

We also work to inform members about AAUW’s efforts to advance equality for women across the globe. Fellowships are awarded to women in more than 150 countries, and AAUW works closely with the United Nations and U.S. Dept. of State to improve the status of women throughout the world. We invite members to participate in the yearly Women PeaceMaker forums at USD.

Since Public Policy concentrates on equity for women and girls, we combine education with action to achieve legislation. Policy Co-Chairs AAUW California Amy Horn & Melissa Maceyo keep us informed on bills before the legislature that our organization supports.

Unfortunately, legislation is not enough. It needs to be enforced. Over the years we have had speakers who play a leading role in the educational, economic and political life of San Diego. Greater economic prosperity through justice is the key to all our programs. From the right to vote to Title IX to equality in the workplace, we are fighting poverty through the advancement of our gender.

We will be joining Gov Trek, an AAUW program for high school juniors and seniors. Through this program, we are hoping to create interest in pursuing careers in public service and elective office.

Past Speakers

Recent Public Policy speakers to a General Meeting of the branch have been:

  • Jeanne Weidner, League of Women Voters of San Diego
  • Michael Vu, former Registrar of Voters for San Diego County
  • Chris Abe, Vice President of Operations for Rady Children’s Hospital
  • Georgette Gomez, former San Diego City Council member and president of Toyon Strategies

Website Links:

Find your State Assemblymember:  http://assembly.ca.gov
Find your State Senator:  http://senate.ca.gov
Contact Governor Newson:  http://gov.ca.gov/home.php
AAUW California – Bill Status:  https://www.aauw-ca.org/documents/2021/04/bill-tracking.pdf/