MISSOURI TOWN HALLS REPORT

Informed with quantitative data from the Status of Women in Missouri 2020 report, United WE set out in 2021 to launch the Missouri Women’s Economic Development Task Force to study issues related to women’s participation and advancement in the workforce. This initiative intended to shed light on what is holding women back so we can generate fresh solutions to longstanding challenges. We are using these insights to better translate our research into actionable change for women in Missouri. Review our 2021 Town Halls Report to learn about the insights and findings from the town halls, as well as opportunities for impact in six key areas that have proven to be barriers for Missouri women in order to fully participate in the workforce.

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ABOUT MISSOURI TOWN HALLS

United WE invited women across the state from diverse industries, areas, and backgrounds to study issues related to women’s participation and advancement in the workforce, and lead the effort to hear from them directly as members of the Missouri Women’s Economic Development Task Force.

Launched in June 2021, the task force held a series of nine town hall discussions throughout the state of Missouri collecting both qualitative and quantitative data through discussion, surveys and polling.

This was THE single largest effort in the history of Missouri to listen and address the economic needs of women. Our goal is always to ensure we’re creating impact - not just right now - but for years to come as we support future generations of women.

OPPORTUNITIES FOR IMPACT

Drawing on the key findings from the town halls as well as data from the Status of Women in Missouri 2020 report, six key areas emerged as the top barriers for Missouri women to fully participate in the workforce.

These six areas must be addressed to recruit and retain Missouri women in the workforce and grow Missouri’s economy to its full potential. There is no one-size-fits all policy solution to reduce these barriers, yet Missouri government, corporations, nonprofits and citizens must continue to research and emphasize a multi-solution approach for the strength of our economy.

TESTIMONIALS

We heard a wide variety of personal stories and experiences at each of our town halls. Below are just a few that we heard. These are unique stories, but we heard common themes across the state from women of all backgrounds. Women want to participate in the economy, and they are doing everything they can to make it work, however there are structural barriers keeping women from participating fully or succeeding.