Bridges Center Research Director Rachel Erstad has joined the Washington State Women's Commission Economic Well-Being (EWB) Committee. The Washington State Women’s Commission (“WSWC” or “the Women’s Commission”) is an executive branch cabinet agency in the Office of Governor Bob Ferguson with an advisory board of 9 Commissioners. It exists to improve the well-being of women and girls by ensuring their needs are reflected in and prioritized by the government that serves them. The EWB committee members are selected due to their experience and work in promoting gender equity in the workplace and beyond. Committee members support commissioners in setting an agenda to advance economic opportunity and security for women and girls. The committee works to promote economic well-being for all Washington women by advocating for policies and infrastructure that alleviate the financial burden associated with women’s disproportionate caregiving responsibilities, expand access to opportunities, and foster safe and inclusive workplaces. 

The goal of the EWB committee is to foster a shared understanding and build a robust foundation for all levels of the community to address economic disparities among women. Members possess lived experience or expertise in WSWC’s economic policy priorities and help inform their legislative and community work. The Economic Well-Being committee's current focus areas are child care barriers and non-traditional education programs.

Learn more about the Women's Commission by visiting their website: https://wswc.wa.gov/.