AAUW California's biennial public policy action priorities are chosen according to the criteria of viability, critical need, strong member support, and the potential for distinctive AAUW contribution. Implicit are support for government agencies administering programs, including adequate appropriations, effective administration, and provision for citizen participation. We work to increase the representation of women and minorities in policy-making positions.

Brochures about the current national Public Policy Program are available in English and Spanish at the national AAUW website.

AAUW California
Biennial Public Policy Action Priorities
2007-2009

Legislative activism has a long history in AAUW. Members first lobbied for women’s suffrage in 1892 and have continued to be responsive to critical issues of the times.

The AAUW Public Policy program supports its mission to advance equity for women and girls, through advocacy, education and research and complements the Association Public Policy program. AAUW California’s priorities for action are chosen according to the criteria of viability, critical need, and strong member support.

• Constitutional protection for the civil rights of all individuals
• Legislation that addresses current inequities in compensation and benefits for all working women
• Vigorous enforcement of California Title V and Federal Title IX regulations on gender equity

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• Equitable funding for quality public education in preschool through secondary schools that supports all students of any culture, race, ethnicity, special needs or sexual orientation
• Opposition to the use of public funds for school vouchers
• Continuing educational research and reform that improves student achievement
• Programs that provide women with education, training, and support for long-term success in the work force and the community
• Medically accurate health curriculum, including comprehensive sex education

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• Right to determine one’s reproductive life, including the right to privacy and access to quality family planning services
• Access to health care and the expansion of patient rights
• Greater availability and access to high quality, affordable family care giving services, including rigorous oversight
• Respect for diversity and the rejection of all forms of discrimination
• Access to decent, affordable housing
• Promotion of safe, healthy work environments free from sexual harassment and intimidation
• Freedom from violence and fear in homes, schools, workplaces, and communities

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Adopted by the AAUW California Convention - Ontario, April 2007.

The 45th Biennial Convention in Phoenix, Arizona, in June 2007, adopted the 2007-2009 Association Biennial Action Priorities.