A Woman's Touch: The Global Influence of Women in Politics with Valerie Dowling

 

 

​​Valerie Dowling is the Director of the Women's Democracy Network at the International Republican Institute. Since taking the role in 2016, Valerie has been passionately spearheading efforts to enhance women's involvement in elected offices worldwide, to foster inclusive and diverse political landscapes. Valerie's past roles include Director of Women's Programs in the Office of the Co-Chairman at the Republican National Committee, Political Director for the National Federation of Republican Women, and Pennsylvania Coalitions Director for the Romney for President Campaign. As a result of her initiatives, she successfully engaged more women within the Republican Party, leading to increased influence and amplified the voices of Republican women across the country. Valerie's experience in various capacities within the Bush Administration provided her with valuable insights into government operations and policy-making processes. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Valerie actively contributes to the Women's Public Leadership Network as the Vice-Chair of the Board of Directors, advocating for the advancement of women in leadership roles.

 

Today, Valerie and I discuss the importance of increasing women's political participation, leadership, and representation globally. She emphasizes the need for women to take an active role in politics and highlights the power and potential of women in shaping policy and the future. She discusses her work in encouraging women's involvement in the political process and creating platforms for women to connect and collaborate. Valerie addresses the challenges women face, such as the social stigma associated with political affiliations and the importance of women realizing that their participation in democracy goes beyond personal emotions and extends to issues affecting their families and communities. We discuss various avenues for political engagement, including advocacy, running for office at different levels, and supporting candidates through donations and investments of time. We also discuss how the media portrays women's issues and how to get young people involved in politics.

 

“Women need to be involved at all levels of the political and civic process in our communities if we want to see democracy work. “- Valerie Dowling

 

 

 

This week on Political Contessa:

 

• The importance of increasing women’s participation in politics globally
• The power women have to shape the future
• How to encourage women to get involved in politics
• The challenges faced by women in politics
• How to get involved in politics without running for office
• How women’s diverse backgrounds and life experiences make them well-suited to holding office
• How to promote democracy in other countries
• How the media portrays female candidates
• The role of taxpayer dollars in funding public institutions
• How to get college students to think about democracy

 

 

Resources Mentioned:

 

• The Pocketbook Project

 

Connect with Valerie Dowling:

 

• Website: Women’s Democracy Network
• Valerie Dowling on LinkedIn

 

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