The mission of the Progressive Women's Alliance is to influence public policy through the election of candidates and the advocacy of progressive values.
Communities are better – more equitable, just, inclusive, and economically viable – when progressive voices are at the table and progressive values are represented in government, policy, and law. In this way, we raise up all members of our community.
PWA Board of Directors
Karla Amaya-Leone
Karey Hamrick
Shayna Haynes Heard
Emily Heffling
Anne Hiskes
Charissa Huang
Sondra Loucks Wilson
Jodi Michaels
Kelli Langan Pfister
Sherrie Barber Willson
Karen Zivi
Our progressive vision is a society that…
- Promotes justice and social responsibility.
- Respects individual freedom and mutual responsibility.
- Embraces the democratic values of freedom of association and freedom of speech.
- Protects bodily autonomy and reproductive justice.
- Advocates for equity and meaningful opportunities for all.
- Embraces cultural and religious diversity as a source of resilient communities.
- Recognizes the importance of quality public education for democracy.
- Supports efficient, effective government that empowers communities, balances private sector power, and ensures a dignified standard of living for all.
- Encourages inclusive grassroots political involvement.
“Unless women are prepared to fight politically, they must be content to be ignored politically.”
– Alice Paul, 1920
Our Beginning
In the fall of 2003, a group of West Michigan women leaders began what would ultimately become a powerful political force – one where progressive voices and priorities could find root on our community’s political electoral stage.
They formed the Progressive Women’s Alliance of West Michigan – the area’s first and only women-led, independent, non-connected, multi-issue political action committee (PAC) dedicated to progressive values.
PWA’s founders combined their considerable experience in political fundraising and civic organizing with the goal of increasing women’s political leadership and participation.
Guided by their vision, PWA has raised significant funding to support progressive campaigns, endorsed candidates at all levels of government, offered programming to educate our community about key issues, and become a statewide model for effective progressive organizing. The impressive results continue with each electoral cycle.
With gratitude for their vision and hard work, we thank our founders:
Christine Albertini
Micki Benz
Joan Bowman
Sharon Handy
Karen Henry
Phyllis Hooyman
Kathy Humphrey
Helga Kleinschmidt
Deb Mankoff
Noreen Myers
Kate Pew Wolters
Bette Sebastian
Cindy Sharp
Meg Sorenson
Melvene Tardy
