Why This Election Matters for Women—and Why We Can’t Afford to Sit This One Out

Fifty years ago, we couldn’t open a credit card or take out a loan without a man’s signature. Just fifty years! It wasn’t until the Equal Credit Opportunity Act (ECOA) in 1974 that women gained the financial independence to build credit, buy homes, and grow businesses in our own names. Let that sink in—because it’s a powerful reminder of both how far we’ve come and how much we stand to lose if we don’t keep pushing forward.?

Today, our autonomy is under threat again, especially in healthcare and reproductive rights. The rollback of Roe v. Wade affects far more than just healthcare access; it impacts our ability to participate fully in the workforce, build wealth, and support our families. When women have control over our bodies, we can build stronger futures—for ourselves, our families, and our communities. Taking away that freedom doesn’t just harm individual women—it holds us all back.?

How Healthcare Impacts Wealth and Freedom?

When women lose access to reproductive healthcare, it affects much more than our personal health. Studies show that women who have control over their reproductive decisions are better able to complete their education, pursue careers, and contribute to the economy. In a country that already faces a significant gender wealth gap, these restrictions make achieving financial independence even harder.?

The gender wealth gap isn’t just a statistic; it’s a reality that affects every aspect of our lives. Women, on average, earn less than men, hold fewer assets, and face a greater risk of poverty as we age. This wealth gap reflects not only income disparities but also the compounded effect of a lifetime of economic inequality—from caregiving roles to reduced access to financial opportunities. Add limited healthcare autonomy, and the wealth gap only grows. And when women fall behind, families, communities, and our economy suffer.?

We’re Already Showing Up—and Now’s the Time to Keep Going?

We’re seeing inspiring momentum. In this election cycle, 11.1 million women have already voted early in seven key swing states—outpacing men by more than a million votes (55.2% women to 44.8% men). Women are proving that when we come together, we’re unstoppable. Let’s keep that momentum strong through Election Day.?

Your Vote Matters More Than Ever?

This election, we have the power to shape a future where women don’t just survive—we thrive. Every vote counts in building that future. Reach out to friends, family, and neighbors. Bring them to the polls. Volunteer if you’re able—there are still ways to help others get out to vote. Together, we’re moving forward, not backward.?

When women stand together, we’re a force that can’t be ignored. By voting, we honor the legacy of ECOA and the hard-won progress of those who came before us. Let’s use our voices and our votes to create a future where women have true freedom, equality, and opportunity. We owe it to ourselves and to every woman who fought before us—and we owe it to future generations.?