Advancing the Needle: A Conversation on Women's Equity with Ariana Kelly

In honor of Women’s History Month, Markyta and Gabi sit down with Ariana Kelly, Executive Director of the Maryland Commission for Women, to discuss the "bold new vision" for the Commission’s 60th year. From her 14-year legacy in the Maryland General Assembly to her current work modernizing state equity policies, Ariana breaks down the "next frontier" of reproductive freedom, the practical impact of new wage transparency laws, and the hurdles remaining in Maryland’s care economy. Join us for a deep dive into how we move beyond annual celebrations toward actionable, intersectional policy change that protects and empowers every woman in the Old Line State.Correction & Editor’s Note: During this episode, it was stated that Verda Welcome was the first Black woman to serve as a State Senator in the United States. While Senator Welcome was a legendary Maryland trailblazer and the first Black woman elected to the Maryland State Senate (in 1962), the first Black woman to serve in a State Senate in U.S. history was actually Cora Brown, who was elected to the Michigan State Senate in 1952. We appreciate the opportunity to clarify this historical milestone as we celebrate the legacy of all women in public service.