Women's Empowerment Conference Coming To Lansdowne

LEESBURG, VA — The National Association of Commissions for Women (NACW) will be holding its 50th annual conference in July at Lansdowne Resort & Spa in Leesburg. This year's conference, scheduled for July 19-22, is themed "Hear Our Voices: Equality, Resiliency, Advocacy" and focuses on ways to address justice and equality for women and girls.

Coming on the heels of Virginia ratifying the Equal Rights Amendment and the 100th anniversary of the Women's Suffrage Act, the timing of the conference in the D.C. area is ideal, according to conference organizers.

"We are thrilled to secure this event, particularly in a year when the nation commemorates the 100th anniversary of a milestone in women's equality," Ann Hayes, director of sales, groups and meetings for Visit Loudoun, said in a statement.

Visit Loudoun, also known as the Loudoun Convention and Visitors Association, worked in tandem with the Loudoun Commission on Women & Girls, along with the office of Loudoun County Board Chair Phyllis Randall, to bring the 2020 NACW conference to Leesburg, Hayes said.

The organization's annual conference, which is open to the public, has been hosted in such cities as Boston, Chicago and Los Angeles in recent years. The conference draws women from across the country to share ideas and achievements.

NACW's mission is to sustain, strengthen and advocate for women's commissions in their work to promote equality and justice for women and girls and ensure they are represented in their communities. After the Presidential Commission on the Status of Women dissolved in 1963, NACW formed to take its place.

Commissions can be established at the city, county, or state level through an executive order, legislative order, or by executive or legislative appointment. They can serve as a forum for political advocacy, provide opportunities to collaborate with other women's organizations, and promote the accomplishments of women in the community.