Springfield-Annandale Branch of AAUW
Our branch was organized in March of 1955 and received into the Virginia Division that Fall. Composed primarily of young college educated women at home with young children in a young community of newly built homes, it has evolved into an organization of women of many ages with strong interest in current issues, particularly women’s issues. Our branch has stronglly supported AAUW’s mission. We invite you to browse and learn more about our programs, community impact activities and special interest groups.
AAUW Celebrating Over 140 Years
AAUW Mission Statement
To advance gender equity for women and girls through research, education and advocacy. Vision: Equity for all. Values: Non-partisan. Fact based.
AAUW Diversity Statement
In principle and in practice, AAUW values and seeks an inclusive membership, workforce, leadership team, and board of directors. There shall be no barriers to full participation in this organization on the basis of age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, geographical location, national origin, race, religious beliefs, sexual orientation, or socio-economic status.
THE 5 STAR NATIONAL RECOGNITION PROGRAM rewards affiliates (states, branches, other organizations) for aligning their work with the AAUW strategic plan and other initiatives that foster the organization’s mission of advancing gender equity for women and girls.
Congratulations to the Springfield-Annandale Branch on Achieving ‘Star’ Status in all 5 AAUW Focus Areas!
Upcoming Programs: Irene McGhee, Amy Crolius, Co-VPs for Programs
Earlier this year, AAUW-VA’s President, Lane Stone, encouraged branches to provide 100 of anything to donate in celebration of our centennial. Springfield-Annandale’s Board decided to purchase 100 pairs of men’s and women’s socks. They have been delivered to the Eleanor U. Kennedy Shelter affiliated with New Hope Housing this month.
Public Policy and Advocacy: Susan Burk, Public Policy Chair
The Virginia General Assembly adjourned Sine die (without setting a day to reconvene) on February 22. It was a busy session with some 3,000 bills considered during less than two months. The following bills of importance to AAUW-VA passed the House and Senate and are headed to the Governor’s desk for signature, amendment, or veto:
HB 1921: This bill requires employers to provide paid sick days to all workers in Virginia. Passed the House 51-47; Passed the Senate 21-16.
HJ 2/SJ 248: Constitutional amendment would automatically restore voting rights for people convicted of a felony after their sentence. Passes the House (must be approved again in 2026 to be placed on the ballot for a vote by VA voters.)
HB 1928: Minimum wage. Increases the minimum wage incrementally to $15.00 per hour by January 1, 2027. The bill codifies the adjusted state hourly minimum wage of $12.41 per hour that is effective January 1, 2025 and increases the minimum wage to $13.50 per hour effective January 1, 2026 and to $15.00 per hour effective January 1, 2027. The bill requires the Commissioner of Labor and Industry to establish an adjusted state hourly minimum wage by October 1, 2027. Passed the House 50-46; Passed the Senate 21-19).
Failed
SB 1122: Paid Family and Medical Leave. Passed Senate 21-18; Killed on House floor 49-48 (2/3 required to pass).
For a detailed list of bills passed this session, go to: https://lis.virginia.gov/ .
2024 IncIusion Awards: Judy Baldwin
Thomas Jefferson High School has been added to the schools we contact so there are now five: Annandale, John Lewis, Lake Braddock, Thomas Jefferson and West Springfield. Applications are due March 14 and the Committee will meet March 21 to select the winners. Awards will be given at the April 24 meeting at the Pohick Regional Library, 6450 Sydenstricker Road, Burke.
Be a Two Minute Activist Fight for equal pay, family leave, stopping sexual harassment, and equal opportunity in education from the comfort of your own home. Sign up to be a Two Minute Activist and get regular alerts and the opportunity to take action. AAUW.org/act/two-minute-activist/. It couldn’t be easier!
Did You Know? You can sign up now to start your free, online salary negotiation workshop. Just go to https://salary.aauw.org/ to begin. AAUW Start Smart is designed for college women who are approaching the job market. AAUW Work Smart is designed for women in the workforce at any career level.
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