On Thursday, October 17, 2024 the Philadelphia, PA Chapter of the Independent Women’s Network (IWN) hosted a thought-provoking panel discussion during their most recent Chapter meeting. The event, which focused on the importance of keeping women’s sports female and the ongoing fight for equality, was attended by Chapter members, concerned community members and members of the press.
The panel featured Megan Burke, the Denver, CO Chapter Leader of IWN, as well as Paula Scanlan, Coach Kim, and former 6ABC news anchor and MSNBC journalist Erin Paone. The panelists shared their insights and experiences, shedding light on the challenges faced by women and girls in myriad aspects of life.
Megan Burke, a 2-time NCAA champion runner from the University of North Carolina, has been at the forefront of advocating for equal opportunity and safety for women and girls. She played a pivotal role in the passage of North Carolina’s Fairness in Women’s Sports Act, which saw an override from the state legislature after initially being vetoed by Governor Roy Cooper. Burke’s dedication to the cause extends beyond her home state, as she actively engages in hosting chapter meetings, writing letters to members of congress, and organizing rallies in Colorado.
“When Elizabeth and Bridget reached out to me, it was a no-brainer; I had to be in Philly to stand up for women and girls, especially for my two young daughters,” said Megan Burke. “As a former D1 athlete, I know the incredible impact sports has on women, reaching far beyond titles and trophies. The values learned in sports extend to areas we don’t always think about, like interviewing for jobs, being a team player in the workplace, valuing fair competition, and even great parenting. There is no way I can stand by and let these life skills be stolen from my daughters.”
The meeting, which was a resounding success, was followed by the Stand with Women Philadelphia event, which featured influential speakers such as Tulsi Gabbard and Riley Gaines. IWN Philadelphia, PA Chapter Leader, Elizabeth Harris, expressed her overwhelming gratitude for the support received from both men and women in Pennsylvania who are passionate about preserving girls’ and women’s sports.
“The October Philadelphia IWN Chapter meeting featuring a panel of champions of Title IX and the Stand With Women conference featuring Tulsi Gabbard and Riley Gaines were incredibly special events with inspiring speakers, hosts and attendees. I am overwhelmed by the support from Pennsylvania men and women who want to save girls and women’s sports!”
Christy Narsi, the National Chapter Director of IWN, expressed her gratitude for the collaboration between the Philadelphia and Denver Chapters. “There is nothing more rewarding than seeing our Chapters come together across states to champion the IWN message! The Philadelphia and Denver Chapters are trailblazers in their respective communities, unapologetically declaring a woman’s right to safety, privacy, and fairness. I am incredibly grateful for the high-level leaders in our movement. With women like these, there is no doubt we will get the job done and take back Title IX!”
Independent Women’s Network continues to advocate for equal opportunities, safety, and fairness for women and girls across the nation. With dedicated leaders like Megan Burke, Elizabeth Harris, and the collaboration between chapters, IWN is making significant strides in the fight to keep women’s sports female.