At 12:01 today, Lt Governor Kathy Hochul was sworn in as the 57th governor of New York State, the first woman to hold that position. Although there will not be the traditional fanfare for this smooth transition of power, please join us on social media today in welcoming our new chief executive and honoring this historic milestone.

Governor Hochul’s ascension marks the end of a painful period for New York, especially for New York women. Working with her in the past, we are sure that she will bring a new tone to governing at a critical moment in our state’s recovery and future. And, as a stalwart advocate for “women’s issues,” particularly pay equity, we are excited to collaborate with her administration to advance policies to meet the urgent needs of women and children.

Watch her 2021 Equal Pay Day Address!

But, a female at the helm is not a panacea; it is an opportunity. She alone cannot end the sexual harassment in Albany and in our culture that brought us to this moment. We all play a role in that monumental shift. That is why PowHerNY will continue seeking solutions through our workshops this fall and will redouble our efforts to advance stronger policies and other changes to the system. Together, we can make New York a beacon of equity and inclusion and a place for women and all New Yorkers to thrive.

PowHer Program Highlights

Dismantling Sexual Harassment in Albany

Earlier this summer, PowHer™ New York, in partnership with Time’s Up and the Sexual Harassment Working Group, hosted a panel to identify the legal, policy, cultural, systemic changes needed to change the toxic workplace and address sexual harassment in Albany. > Watch the Recording

Strengthening Sexual Harassment Protections for NY Women in the Workplace

Advocates joined PowHerNY and the TIME’S UP Foundation in a webinar to learn more about S.6577 Biaggi/A.8421 Simotas, which updated the standard for sexual harassment to make it easier for New York employees to hold their employers accountable for sexual harassment at work the new law and change the culture! > Watch the Recording