Local, state, health, and education officials share information on ways women can empower themselves in the 21st century. Photo by Gina S. Gonzalez

reported by Lynda Swann - BCWC

In September the Buncombe County’s Women’s Commission hosted its second Women’s Agenda Assembly. This year marks the 20th anniversary of the Agenda Assemblies in North Carolina. These forums allow women an opportunity to prioritize issues they identify as important to the women of each county.

Speakers included Mayor Terry Bellamy, City of Asheville; Dr. Betty Young, President of A-B Tech; Linda Kinney, MHA of Care Share Health Alliances; Sharon West, Health Director Buncombe County Health Department; and Kathleen Balogh, Western Regional Director of NC Council for Women Domestic Violence Commission. NC House Representative Susan Fisher presented the final words.

Issues of most importance to the participants of the Buncombe County Assembly were access to health care, civic participation and equality, economic self-sufficiency, and violence against women. An effort was made by the members of the Buncombe County Women’s Commission to include a great cross-culture of women, being aware of the need for representation. The more women included in the process, the more of an impact we have on the legislative decisions of the year.