I am just returning from a 24-hour NCJW DC immersion experience.

My first “stop” was the confirmation hearing of Solicitor General Elena Kagan, to serve as Associate Justice on the US Supreme Court. Watching General Kagan on the “witness stand” taking command of the hearings was inspiring and instructive. She demonstrated fluid knowledge of the law as well as uncompromising devotion to the ideals of access to the courts and equal justice for all.  I was reminded of my law school days, and the awe-inspiring experience of sitting before an exceptional legal scholar who not only understands and reveres the rule of law, but also then expresses legal understanding with exquisite clarity and poetic passion.  If confirmed, I look forward to reading future Justice Kagan’s wise opinions. 

My next event was a White House gathering on the South Lawn for senior federal advisory appointees. I had the privilege of attending this gathering with my husband because I was appointed to serve on President Obama’s Advisory Council of the Office of Faith Based and Neighborhood Partnerships.  President Obama, who spoke extemporaneously (after Michelle Obama good-naturedly removed his prepared speech), reflected on the accomplishments of the past 18 months and aspirations for the coming months. And then he acknowledged what we, as advocates, know to be true: change happens only because of our involvement, engagement, and tenacity. 

My final stop on this 24-hour DC sojourn was a meeting with the Senate Democratic Leadership and leaders of national women’s organizations. We had an intimate and meaningful dialogue about women’s economic security, health care, and reproductive rights — noting that each are inextricably linked and deeply impacted by the three branches of government. 

I leave DC emboldened and renewed. Being at the tables of change and having a powerful grassroots network of change-makers and mobilizers makes NCJW valued, vital, and visible. By engaging, we are building on our legacy of making a difference where it counts the most.

Now it the time to work to ensure the confirmation of General Kagan, and the legislative policies needed to create the kind of changes that we know are possible — the kind of changes that will ensure equal access and social justice for all.