From the desk of the president

My fellow Zontians and friends of Zonta, these are difficult times. If you are like me, you turn on the TV, scroll on social media or open a newspaper, and you are immediately inundated with troubling news from around the world. From the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic to extreme weather, increased instances of gender-based violence, conflicts, threats to democracy and legislative attacks on women's rights, these events all disproportionately impact women and girls. It can seem overwhelming and maybe even a bit hopeless.

What is Zonta's role and responsibility in these challenging times? I have been doing a lot of reflecting on this question. More than 100 years ago, our founders established Zonta International with a bold vision for gender equality. Now in our second century, I believe we need to act with the same boldness and determination to protect the hard-won gains of the last 100 years and realize our founder's vision for gender equality. Zonta International, our Zonta clubs and individual members must be a strong and consistent voice for promoting and upholding the rights of all women and girls.

It is that Zonta voice reflected in the actions of Zonta clubs around the world that has been an enormous source of inspiration for me and gives me immense hope, despite the challenges we face. Thank you to each and every one of our club members and individual members for being a light in the darkness and a voice for all women and girls. I see you, I appreciate you, and I am proud to work alongside you to realize our vision for gender equality.

7 SEPTEMBER 2021