In this moment, togetherness matters more than ever
Across California and around the world, women are struggling under the weight of overlapping gendered challenges. From juggling caregiving demands, to persistent pay inequities, we continue to push against systems that were not designed with us in mind. And despite what the headlines suggest about a so-called “ambition gap,” women are not lacking drive. They are simply depleted from lifetimes of being undervalued.
At the Commission, we know that the solution for these challenges lies where it always has, in radical solidarity and commitment to uplifting each other as we fight for an equitable world. When women stand together, we don’t just weather hard times, we reshape what’s possible and build communities where everyone can thrive.
The Commission focuses on a legislative package grounded in our mission to ensure that California’s systems work for women and girls in every community. During the legislative session, we will continue to champion policies that move us closer to equity, dignity, and opportunity for all.
As we move into Women’s History Month, I’m reminded that progress has never been the work of one person or one moment. It has always been the work of many, linked through shared purpose, and a belief in what we can achieve when we work together.
Darcy Totten, Executive Director
California Commission on the Status of Women and Girls
 Post-Convening Meeting Update
Commission staff hosted the first virtual follow‑up meeting stemming from the California Convening of Women last November. At the California Convening for Women, hosted at Mount Saint Mary's University, the CCSWG and the Los Angeles County Commission for Women heard from local women's commissioners, youth, elected officials, and organizations serving women and girls to build shared goals. At this virtual update, the Commission provided the latest policy updates, shared insights, and continued building the momentum we sparked at the Convening. Join us for our next update on May 19.
Youth Advisory Council Meeting
The Youth Advisory Council (YAC) Virtual Meeting is scheduled for March 4. The YAC will be discussing the CCSWG legislative package and youth bills. Learn more.
March Commission Meeting
The next full Commission meeting is scheduled for March 9 in Sacramento. Read the agenda to learn more.
Celebrate Women’s History Month: Join Us at Our Open House
Leadership California “The Power of Us”
The Leadership California “The Power of Us” 2026 event is scheduled for April 20, 2026, from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at the California Museum Courtyard in Sacramento. This event serves as an evening of connection and celebration, bringing together women leaders and partners. Register to attend.
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Youth in Technology
The Youth in Technology Convention, a free one-day technology event designed for college-aged women, will take place on May 12, 2026, from 12:00-5:00 p.m. at Aggie Square in Sacramento. Registration is open through April 28, 2026, and applications for the Tech Pitch Competition will be accepted until April 13, 2026.
Thank you to our International Relationships Committee and partners, Global Ties Sacramento and Sacramento State University’s Carlsen Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, for helping to organize this event.
 Mount Saint Mary’s University 2026 Report on the Status of Women and Girls
The Center for the Advancement of Women at MSMU is releasing its 2026 Report on the Status of Women and Girls in California on March 27, 2026, from 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. at the Skirball Cultural Center in Los Angeles. The 15th annual report, titled “Shift: Building a Future That Works for Women,” focuses on workforce participation, leadership, and policy. Register to attend.
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Legislative Women’s Caucus Gubernatorial Forum on Women’s Economic Security, Health, and Safety
The Commission staff attended the California Legislative Women’s Caucus’ Gubernatorial Forum on Women’s Economic Security, Health, and Safety. This forum provided an invaluable opportunity to hear diverse perspectives on issues that impact women and families across California.
California Budget Center Report Highlights Unmet Childcare Needs
According to the California Budget Policy Center’s recent report “Understanding California's 1.8 Million Gap in Publicly Funded Childcare” showing the number of children eligible for publicly funded childcare vs. the number actually enrolled, there is a large unmet need in California, especially variable in the different counties. The report also contains data about unmet need by county.
West Hollywood Women’s Advisory Board
Join the City of West Hollywood and its Women’s Advisory Board for the Free Women’s Health Symposium on March 7 from 10:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. at 7377 Santa Monica Boulevard, West Hollywood. This free event was created to support the health and well-being of women in the community and will include guest speakers, panels, workshops, conversation circles and resources. Learn more and register to attend.
Sacramento County Commission on the Status of Women and Girls
The Sacramento County Commission on the Status of Women and Girls is hosting their free 2026 Sacramento Women and Girls Festival on March 7 from 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. at Sacramento City College. This free, family-friendly event is a one-stop resource hub for women, girls, youth, and families, featuring organizations that provide vital programs and services for the community. Learn more.
UN Commission on the Status of Women
This year's UN Commission on the Status of Women will meet in NYC for its 70th session from March 9 - 19. Attending the UN CSW or the parallel NGO CSW is an opportunity to attend hundreds of sessions on every issue important to women and gender equity and meet thousands of officials and women’s rights advocates from around the U.S. and the world. You can also register to attend most of the sessions virtually. Learn more.
Los Angeles County Commission for Women
The Los Angeles County Commission for Women's Women of the Year’s 4Oth Anniversary Commemorative Ruby Celebration Gala "Moving Forward Together! Women Educating and Inspiring Generations" is scheduled for March 9 at the Biltmore Los Angeles Hotel. This event recognizes courageous and dedicated women for their outstanding accomplishments in seeking gender equity, as well as their valued contributions in addressing a variety of wellness and quality-of-life issues facing women throughout the County of Los Angeles. This in-person event will be live-streamed, and a portion of the proceeds will be used to fund educational scholarships. Register.
San Francisco Commission on the Status of Women
Join the San Francisco Department on the Status of Women, Mayor Daniel Lurie, First Lady Becca Prowda, and the Commission on the Status of Women to recognize outstanding gender equity leaders on March 19! Doors will open at 5:30 p.m. and the program will begin promptly at 6:00 p.m. Registration is required.
Girls on the Run Greater Sacramento Volunteers Needed
Girls on the Run of Greater Sacramento is hosting their Spring 5K run on May 9 and needs volunteers! The Spring 5K is on May 9 at William Land Park in Sacramento. Volunteers help set up, hand out water to participants, cheer on participants as part of the “cheer squad”, help girls make friendship bracelets, and more! All volunteers receive a free Girls on the Run volunteer t-shirt as well. Register as a volunteer.
Learn About Some February Heritage/Awareness Topics
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