Westchester NOW

Together with Joan Katzman, who answers the NOW phone line, I was lucky enough to attend the sixth-annual "Women Change America" celebration luncheon where Sioux Taylor and Andrea Stewart Cousins were honored as "Women of Change" by the Westchester Community College Women's History Month Committee.

This event culminated a month-long celebration of Women's History Month. It also celebrated the 25th anniversary of the National Women's History Month Foundation.

Taylor, a longtime feminist activist and founding mother of the Southern Westchester Chapter of NOW, was honored for her accomplishments for women and minorities as President of Southern Westchester NOW, as President of the Westchester Women's Issues Committee of the New York State branch of the National Association of Social Workers and, as Commissioner of the Mt. Vernon Recreation Commission, for bringing many new and valuable programs to Mt. Vernon.

Speaking with her blend of fervor and humor, Taylor pointed to the many gains women have made in the 20th century such as women in judgeships, as presidents of major universities, as professionals and in government. She urged members of the audience to work hard until they make their dreams come true.

Stewart Cousins' community involvement goes back to her service on the Yonkers City Council. Later, as a representative to the Westchester County Board of Legislators, Stewart Cousins chaired the Legislative Committee. She is credited with holding the hearings that eventually resulted in legislation to create the County Human Rights Commission.

Stewart Cousins thanked all attending for their support of her. Just as she stood on the shoulders of her foremothers to accomplish so much more than previous generations could, so she welcomed the young women in the audience to continue the journey to racial and gender equity.

For more information about Westchester NOW, e-mail us at info@westchesternow.org!