As advocates, conveners, community members and investors in women and girls, it’s essential that we focus on continued learning. Staying up to date with critical issues keeps us informed and inspired. Here is a list of books, articles, videos and podcasts focused on women that Women’s Fund and OPTIONS Alumnae recommend.
WHAT WE’RE WATCHING
“What protected me was the innocence of a child”: Ruby Bridges reflects on 1960 school integration
In an exclusive interview with Meet the Press, civil rights activist and 2024 Power of Women guest Ruby Bridges reflects on the day she made history by attending a newly desegregated Louisiana school in 1960. | YouTube
Black Barbie: More Than Just a Doll
Tracing the origin of the first Black Barbie back to the filmmaker’s aunt—who asked why Barbie couldn’t look like her—this documentary explores the quest for representation and diversity through one of America’s pop
culture icons. | Netflix
A 3-step guide to believing in yourself
Sheryl Lee Ralph is a force, delivering iconic performances both on stage and screen. But she didn’t always know if she’d make it big. In a lively talk sparkling with actionable advice, she shares how her struggles taught her what it takes to believe in herself — and how we can all find the self-confidence to keep moving forward. | Ted Talks
WHAT WE’RE READING
“Weathering” Is Affecting Black Women’s Health. What Can We Do About It?
Experts speak to the impacts on Black women of living under the strain found at the intersections of race and gender, as well as under oppressive systems. | Article from Essence
The Many Lives of Momma Love: A Memoir of Lying, Stealing, Writing, and Healing
Bestselling author Lara Love Hardin recounts her slide from soccer mom to opioid addict and her unlikely comeback as a ghostwriter. | Available wherever books are sold
Allyson Felix launches first-ever Olympic Village nursery for Paris 2024
Discover how Olympic track star and 2023 Power of Women speaker Allyson Felix advocated for women athletes at the 2024 Olympics. | Article from NBCOlympics.com
WHAT WE’RE LISTENING TO
Beautiful Chorus: “Inner Peace”
A Florida-based, all-female vocal ensemble formed in 2011, Beautiful Chorus blends sacred traditions with new age sounds called “high frequency love music” by fans. | Streaming on all major music platforms
How They See Us: “The State of Women and Girls in Indiana”
Host Denise Herd is joined by Mackenzie Pickerrell, Executive Director of the Girl Coalition of
Indiana, and Tamara Winfrey-Harris, President of the Women’s Fund of Central Indiana, for an in-depth discussion on the current state of Indiana girls and women. | Available on all major podcast platforms
Locatora Radio: “We’re Girls”
In this January episode of the Latina-hosted podcast, Mala Muñoz and Diosa Femme look at how both girlhood and womanhood are being defined socially, professionally, and personally. | Available on all major podcast platforms
This article was published within the November 2024 issue of the Women’s Fund’s Diane magazine.
