Athena Communications - Public Relations & Government Affairs’ Post

"Empowering Conversations: From Farm Bills to Women's Rights and Beyond"🚀 Hey there, LinkedIn community! In our recent discussions, we explored the diverse benefits of hemp, sugarcane, and even delectable insects, shedding light on their potential when utilized wisely. Now, let's shift our focus to recent developments in rights, voting, military service, and beyond. As we continue our conversation during Women's History Month and reflect on International Women's Day, it's crucial to address concerning trends in certain states where abortion and miscarriage rights are being challenged. These developments underscore the ongoing battle for reproductive rights and the importance of advocating for gender equality. In a recent response from Representative Donald Payne regarding the 2023 Farm Bill, we see a commitment to supporting federal agricultural policies that prioritize sustainability, food assistance programs, and rural development. However, challenges such as attempts to cut SNAP funding highlight the ongoing struggle to combat hunger and food insecurity in our communities. In the spirit of advocacy, I've included links to petitions in my comments for those interested in taking action. Remember, every voice matters in shaping our nation's policies and priorities. As we navigate these complex issues, let's remember the words of Maya Angelou: "We all should know that diversity makes for a rich tapestry, and we must understand that all the threads of the tapestry are equal in value, no matter their color." Thank you for your engagement and dedication to creating positive change. Together, we can empower voices, advocate for justice, and shape a brighter future for all. #AdvocacyMatters #EqualityForAll 🗳️ #Empowerment #SocialJustice 🌟 #VoiceForChange 📢 #StandUpForJustice ⚖️ #CommunityEngagement 🤝 #MakingADifference 💪🏽 🌟🗳️ *Representative Donald Payne's Contact Information: ~Twitter: @RepDonaldPayne ~Website: payne.house.gov ~If you need help with a federal agency and are in urgent need of assistance, you may contact: ✓Newark District Office: (973) 645-3213 ✓Jersey City District Office: (201) 369-0392 And remember, your voice matters. Keep advocating, keep engaging, and together, we can drive meaningful change. 💪

Did you know: 🧠 Mexican business owners represented 49.2% of all Hispanic business owners. In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, Advocacy curated a pie chart displaying the share of Hispanic business owners by nationality. Check it out below ⬇️ https://ow.ly/prMq50Tpiru

🌟 Get to know Caitlin Gatlin, the Communications and Marketing Manager for the City of Lawton, Oklahoma! She's a dedicated professional, loving mom, and active community member. Did you know she's also a Trustee for the Great Plains Technology Center Foundation? Learn more about Caitlin and her inspiring journey in this insightful article. 💪🙋♀️ #WomenInLeadership #CommunityEngagement #InspiringWomen #LawtonOK 🌟🌾🔧

🌟 Get to know Caitlin Gatlin, the Communications and Marketing Manager for the City of Lawton, Oklahoma! She's a dedicated professional, loving mom, and active community member. Did you know she's also a Trustee for the Great Plains Technology Center Foundation? Learn more about Caitlin and her inspiring journey in this insightful article. 💪🙋♀️ #WomenInLeadership #CommunityEngagement #InspiringWomen #LawtonOK 🌟🌾🔧

On the need to factor in on diversity and inclusion.

What if your well-meaning advocacy is unintentionally causing harm? Effective advocacy requires a deep understanding of cultural contexts. What works in one region may fall flat—or worse, offend—in another. As global advocates, we must approach our work with cultural humility and awareness. Key considerations: 1. Adapt strategies to fit local contexts. 2. Research local customs and social norms. 3. Be mindful of language and translation nuances. 4. Respect traditional practices while promoting equality. Engage with community leaders and grassroots organizations. Remember: One size doesn't fit all in advocacy. Our goal is progress, not imposition. How do you navigate cultural differences in your advocacy work? Alisha H. Ally, Global Development Visionary.

Public Policy Talks: Contracting Opportunities and Community Advocacy with Markee Tate and Montina Young Fraiser, MM, CBCP In this vital episode of Public Policy Talks, join Markee Tate, President of Advancing Black Businesses, as he hosts Montina Young Fraser, a local government advocate. This session, recorded on June 14, 2024, explores deep insights into securing government contracts and the significance of community advocacy. Highlights of the episode include: Montina Young Fraser's extensive walkthrough on how local businesses can actively participate in bidding for government contracts emphasizes the underutilized opportunities at the local, state, and federal levels. - Practical tips on how to get involved in public policy advocacy effectively, including joining local boards and understanding the procurement processes in Georgia. - Discuss the importance of community presence at board meetings and how this impacts local governance and business opportunities. - A review of the new certification programs available for minority-owned businesses, aiming to increase their participation in state-level contracting. This episode is a treasure trove of actionable advice for entrepreneurs and business owners looking to navigate the complexities of government contracts and enhance their engagement in public policy to foster community growth and economic equity. Subscribe to our channel for more insightful discussions on public policy and how it shapes the landscape of Black entrepreneurship. Engage with us to transform advocacy into action! https://lnkd.in/e_Bn8_bR

"What about men?" "Diversity is when men get excluded." These are actual reactions to the herstoric* swearing-in of the all-women city council in St. Paul, MN. This city council is not just all women, but women representing a spectrum of communities and identities. The above rebuttals are the textbook example of: "When you're accustomed to privilege, equality feels like oppression." They also do not just appear during landmark events. I have seen this ' feedback' made at all women/queer speaking engagements as well as events. Men have been running the show in all manners of society - at work, in government, in powerful positions with the ability to change lives. Where was the diversity then, and where was the advocacy for people other than men to be in such positions of power? Or because the system is set up to give you the sense of entitlement that once taken away (hello, patriarchy 👋🏼 ), you realize that power AND responsibility is not a right? Shoutout to the elected representatives, and to all of us who want to make more of such representation happen, let's keep challenging the status quo 🔥 And for the last time (lol who am I kidding but one can dream): Inclusion without equity is not inclusion; it's pacification AT THE EXPENSE of those who've historically been excluded. *That's not a spelling error. #XincereYiYours #DiversityEquityInclusion

FACE-i MISSION: is to enhance the capacity of CSOs and government officials to collaborate and improve services, particularly for vulnerable groups such as women, children, youth, and marginalized communities. This mission is achieved through a combination of advocacy, capacity building, and service delivery efforts. FACE-i GOAL: is to strengthen the capacity of CSO to engage both the demand and supply sides of governance effectively and efficiently.

The recent figures that have come out showing how prominent the gender pay gap still is - is a reminder that we still have a long way to go. Let’s look to people like Professor Anne Summers for their bravery, strength and resilience to continue to work for gender equity. #internationalwomensday2024