The historic day finally arrived, and the Vital Voices Global Headquarters for Women’s Leadership opened its doors to the public for the first time. Before a crowd of hundreds of girls, DC residents, and women leaders from around the world, Vital Voices President and CEO Alyse Nelson cut the ribbon and ushered in a new era for women’s leadership in Washington D.C.
“Vital Voices was created 25 years ago for and because of audacious women leaders, women who were bold enough to see a problem in their community and step up to take on the world’s greatest challenges. From climate change to fighting gender-based violence to economic inequities, we knew then what I think the world is going to finally wake up to, that in every single community there are women and girls who choose every day to step up, to right wrongs, and to give voice to those long-silenced voices,” Alyse Nelson shared with the audience.
Secretary Hillary Clinton, Diane von Furstenberg, Mayor Muriel Bowser all spoke at the ceremony, highlighting the groundbreaking nature of the first ever global headquarters for women’s leadership. Mayor Muriel Bowser announced the Equality Corridor highlighting that it “speaks to the fact that we’re surrounded by neighbors, both past and present, who have had a profound influence on movements for progress, including, civil rights, women’s suffrage, and LGBTQ rights, and more.”
After a special performance by musical guest MILCK, the building was officially opened, and guests welcomed inside. What does a Global Headquarters for Women’s Leadership mean to you? Share with us @VitalVoices on social media.
