Happy Friday! Welcome to our Media Round Up. Each week we’re collecting and sharing our favorite gender + politics stories. Here’s what caught our eye this week:

The coronavirus crisis is proving we need more women governors and mayors

Barbara Lee, Newsweek

Barbara Lee, President and Founder of the Barbara Lee Family Foundation, writes that the coronavirus is proving we need more women in executive office. Research shows that women come prepared, bring diverse perspectives, and pave the way for more women to run. Lee says, “This crisis is reshaping our society, our economy and our lives at warp speed. Let’s make sure it also reshapes our notion of what executive leadership looks like.”

You can read the full article here.

What It’s Like to Run for Congress Without Health Insurance During a Pandemic

Isabella Grullón Paz, The New York Times

Running for office comes with lots of barriers for women. The idea of going without health insurance can deter a lot of women from running, especially political outsiders and first-time candidates. Many candidates are especially scared during the coronavirus crisis, when getting sick could also mean serious medical debt for their families.

You can read the full article here.

Coronavirus Crisis Offers Test for Biden’s VP Shortlist

Tarini Parti and Joshua Jamerson, The Wall Street Journal

The coronavirus may help decide Joe Biden’s vice presidential pick. Several women have used the crisis to demonstrate their ability to lead. Governor Gretchen Whitmer has gained national attention for her efforts obtaining PPE, while Senators Kamala Harris and Amy Klobuchar have been speaking up for affected communities. If Biden picks one of these women leading the COVID-19 response, he could help show how women can lead during a crisis.

You can read the full article here.

Black Women Are Behind These Presidential Campaigns

Donna M. Owens, Essence

In the 2020 election cycle, Black women assumed critical leadership roles, from being the candidate themselves, serving as campaign managers, to acting as senior advisers, and more. Their leadership and expertise shaped the success of many campaigns. Check out this article to learn more about some of these powerful women.

You can read the full article here.

Mrs. America Conjures Up the Messy History of 1970s Feminism—and Anti-Feminism

Joy Press, Vanity Fair

Looking for a new show to watch while staying at home? The Hulu limited series Mrs. America begins in 1971 during the start of the women’s liberation movement. It tells the story of the Equal Rights Amendment through the eyes of women like Gloria Steinem, Shirley Chisholm, and Phyllis Schlafly. Check it out, premiering April 15^th.

You can read the full article here.

 

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