Women’s March Fort Myers

This is the capstone presentation in a two-month effort to share the voices of ten SWFL women who talk about issues important to them, including their thoughts about the 2024 presidential election. This presentation, co-hosted by CONNIE BENNETT-MARTIN, president of Women's March Fort Myers, and KATHY MAYO, president of the National Organization for Women Lee County Chapter, includes STEPHANIE PAVLISCAK, ELENA REYES, and ANNISA KARIM, three of ten SWFL residents who appeared earlier in the series. All presentations are available on this Spotify channel. In addition to Pavliscak, Reyes, and Reyes, other presenters in this series include KATIE RHODES, MICHAELA O'BRIEN, ERIKA TARONGOY, KATHY MAYO, GIULIANA MAYO, MARCINA STRANG, and FATAMA MUSTAFA VAZQUEZ. The series was jointly produced by Women's MARCH FORT MYERS and the LEE COUNTY CHAPTER OF NOW (National Organization for Women). Each presentation offers insights into how women think about and approach their role as citizen activists. Series design committee--Connie Bennett Martin, Lisa Nagy, Amanda Simat, and Frank Fear. Production staff Simat and Fear. #womensmarchfortmyers#LeeCountyNOW #womensmarch November 2, 2024

Jointly produced by Women's MARCH FORT MYERS/LEE COUNTY CHAPTER OF NOW (National Organization for Women), "WOMEN'S VOICES '24: PROTECTING OUR FUTURE" is an empowering interview series dedicated to amplifying women's voices as we approach the upcoming election. At a time when many feel unheard, this initiative provides a platform for women to express their concerns, hopes, and ideas about the future. By sharing personal stories and opinions on crucial topics like women's rights, current legislation, and the meaning of democracy, we aim to highlight the diverse perspectives that are often overlooked. Expressed uniquely, the videos offer insights into how activists think about and approach their role as citizen activists. This is video #7 in a "24 (podcasts) in '24." We are pleased to present ANNISA KARIM. Annisa Karim has lived in Florida since she was five years old. She grew up on the southeast coast and was part of the first graduating class from Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School. Ms. Karim graduated from the University of Florida with a Bachelor of Science and Master of Science in Wildlife Ecology and Conservation. She has worked as an ecologist and educator in Florida for over 26 years. She ran for office twice to highlight inequities in social justice, environmental protection, and the protection of human rights. Ms. Karim is committed to fighting for Liberty and Justice for All. "24 in '24" series design committee--Connie Bennett Martin, Lis Nagy, Amanda Simat, and produced by Frank Fear. #womensmarchfortmyers#LeeCountyNOW #womensvoices24

Jointly produced by Women's MARCH FORT MYERS/LEE COUNTY CHAPTER OF NOW (National Organization for Women), "WOMEN'S VOICES '24: PROTECTING OUR FUTURE" is an empowering interview series dedicated to amplifying women's voices as we approach the upcoming election. At a time when many feel unheard, this initiative provides a platform for women to express their concerns, hopes, and ideas about the future. By sharing personal stories and opinions on crucial topics like women's rights, current legislation, and the meaning of democracy, we aim to highlight the diverse perspectives that are often overlooked. Expressed uniquely, the videos offer insights into how activists think about and approach their role as citizen activists. This is video #6 in a "24 (podcasts) in '24." We are pleased to present FATIMA MUSTAFA VAZQUEZ. Fatima has resided in Southwest Florida for the last 30 years. A graduate of the University of Southern California and a Certified Public Accountant, she visited over 35 countries while employed for over two decades by the Microsoft Corporation. Through that and other experiences, she learned to appreciate people from different cultures and religions, and those who embrace different ideologies. A vegan and animal rights activist for over three decades, Fatima is engaged actively in the community. A "Leadership Lee County" alumna, she has served as Vice-Chairwoman of the Lee County Hispanic Affairs Advisory Board and Treasurer of the SWFL Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. She is currently a volunteer working with the MicroEnterprise Program of Goodwill Industries of SWFL. She loves helping people and cooking vegan meals. "24 in '24" series design committee--Connie Bennett Martin, Lis Nagy, Amanda Simat, and produced by Frank Fear. #womensmarchfortmyers#LeeCountyNOW #womensvoices24

Jointly produced by Women's MARCH FORT MYERS/LEE COUNTY CHAPTER OF NOW (National Organization for Women), "WOMEN'S VOICES '24: PROTECTING OUR FUTURE" is an empowering interview series dedicated to amplifying women's voices as we approach the upcoming election. At a time when many feel unheard, this initiative provides a platform for women to express their concerns, hopes, and ideas about the future. By sharing personal stories and opinions on crucial topics like women's rights, current legislation, and the meaning of democracy, we aim to highlight the diverse perspectives that are often overlooked. Expressed uniquely, the videos offer insights into how activists think about and approach their role as citizen activists. This is video #5 in a "24 (podcasts) in '24." We are pleased to present ELENA REYES. Dr. Reyes is a clinical psychologist specializing in health and pediatric psychology. She has over 40 years of experience in clinical work and research with Latino migrant children and families, as well as training healthcare professionals to provide culturally appropriate care. She established the Florida State University Center for Child Stress & Health, a national resource for professionals working with rural and underserved populations. Currently, she is retired from academia and provides consultation and trainings on impact of adverse childhood events, including traumatic separation, abuse and immigration "24 in '24" series design committee--Connie Bennett Martin, Lis Nagy, Amanda Simat, and produced by Frank Fear. #womensmarchfortmyers#LeeCountyNOW #womensvoices24

Jointly produced by Women's MARCH FORT MYERS/LEE COUNTY CHAPTER OF NOW (National Organization for Women), "WOMEN'S VOICES '24: PROTECTING OUR FUTURE" is an empowering interview series dedicated to amplifying women's voices as we approach the upcoming election. At a time when many feel unheard, this initiative provides a platform for women to express their concerns, hopes, and ideas about the future. By sharing personal stories and opinions on crucial topics like women's rights, current legislation, and the meaning of democracy, we aim to highlight the diverse perspectives that are often overlooked. Expressed uniquely, the videos offer insights into how activists think about and approach their role as citizen activists. This is video #4 in a "24 (podcasts) in '24." We are pleased to present MARCINA STRANG. Marci writes .... "Born in 1954 and growing up as a proud American female for the past 70 years, today it feels like a "Blast from the Past!” During the 1960s and ’70s, I was actively involved in the Women’s Rights Movement, fighting for the passage of Roe V. Wade. Today, American females are losing their Right to Choose because this issue has become political. A Woman’s Right to Choose is personal, not political! Therefore, once again, I must fight like hell to protect all American females to preserve a right.” "24 in '24" series design committee--Connie Bennett Martin, Lis Nagy, Amanda Simat, and produced by Frank Fear.

Jointly produced by Women's MARCH FORT MYERS and the LEE COUNTRY CHAPTER OF NOW (National Organization for Women), "WOMEN'S VOICES '24: PROTECTING OUR FUTURE" is an empowering interview series dedicated to amplifying women's voices as we approach the upcoming election. At a time when many feel unheard, this initiative provides a platform for women to express their concerns, hopes, and ideas about the future. By sharing personal stories and opinions on crucial topics like women's rights, current legislation, and the meaning of democracy, we aim to highlight the diverse perspectives that are often overlooked. Expressed uniquely, the videos offer insights into how activists think about and approach their role as citizen activists.  This is audio #3 in a "24 (podcasts) in '24." We are pleased to present the voices of KATHY MAYO (Fort Myers) and GUILIANA MAYO (Los Angeles), mother and daughter.   Kathy Mayo is well-known in Fort Myers and across Florida for her steadfast commitment to advancing women's issues and lives. Among many activist roles, she has served as president of the National Organization for Women, Lee County chapter, and Women’s March Fort Myers.   Giuliana Mayo co-founded the clothing line Junker Designs in 2002. She dressed some of the world’s most prominent performers in denim and leather for over a decade. After fashion, she turned to her first love: radio, and she is now a freelance audio producer, professional storyteller, journalist, and cape enthusiast. You can find examples of recent work at KCRW ⁠https://www.kcrw.com/people/giuliana-mayo⁠ About "The Moth" mentioned in this audio, find more information here. ⁠Understanding The Moth | National Endowment for the Arts⁠ "24 in '24" series design committee--Connie Bennett Martin, Lis Nagy, Amanda Simat, and produced by Frank Fear.   #womensmarchfortmyers #LeeCountyNOW #womensvoices24

Jointly produced by Women's MARCH FORT MYERS and the LEE COUNTRY CHAPTER OF NOW (National Organization for Women), "WOMEN'S VOICES '24: PROTECTING OUR FUTURE" is an empowering interview series dedicated to amplifying women's voices as we approach the upcoming election.   At a time when many feel unheard, this initiative provides a platform for women to express their concerns, hopes, and ideas about the future. By sharing personal stories and opinions on crucial topics like women's rights, current legislation, and the meaning of democracy, we aim to highlight the diverse perspectives that are often overlooked. Expressed uniquely, the videos offer insights into how activists think about and approach their role as citizen activists.   This is audio #2 in a "24 (podcasts) in '24." We are pleased to present the voices of FGCU GENERATION ACTION, the Florida Gulf Coast University chapter of Generation Action, with KATIE RHODES, MICHAELA O’BRIEN, and ERIKA SHAYNE TARONGOY.   Generation Action is a national organization affiliated with Planned Parenthood. Learn more about FGCU GENERATION ACTION on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/ppgenactionfgcu/   In conjunction with listening to this podcast, we recommend reading KATIE RHODES's outstanding op-ed, “When did our private health care decisions start to belong to the government?” published in the FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, February 11, 2024, ⁠When did our health care decisions start to belong to the government? (news-press.com)⁠   "24 in '24" series design committee--Connie Bennett Martin, Lis Nagy, Amanda Simat, and produced by Frank Fear.   #womensmarchfortmyers #LeeCountyNOW #womensvoices24

Jointly produced by Women's MARCH FORT MYERS and the LEE COUNTRY CHAPTER OF NOW (National Organization for Women), "WOMEN'S VOICES '24: PROTECTING OUR FUTURE" is an interview series dedicated to amplifying women's voices as we approach the upcoming election. At a time when many feel unheard, this initiative provides a platform for women to express their concerns, hopes, and ideas about the future. By sharing personal stories and opinions on crucial topics like women's rights, current legislation, and the meaning of democracy, we aim to highlight the diverse perspectives that are often overlooked. Expressed uniquely, the podcasts offer insights into how activists think about and approach their role as citizen activists. We are pleased to present STEPHANIE PAVLISCAK. "24 in '24" series design committee--Connie Bennett Martin, Lis Nagy, Amanda Simat, and produced by Frank Fear. #womensmarchfortmyers #LeeCountyNOW #womensvoices24

WMFM is pleased to launch a new series, Talking the Walk, with guest Howard Simon, well-known in Florida and nationwide for his tireless commitment to the public good. Howard’s resume includes being the longest-serving state director (Michigan and then Florida) in the century-long history of the American Civil Liberties Union. In that and other roles, he has promoted countless policy changes and fought against self-serving attacks on equality, rights, and justice. Today, Howard will extend thoughts he shared recently in an Op-Ed on authoritarianism and the threat to democracy. His commentary was published in newspapers around Florida, including in the Tampa Bay Times Take heed, Florida: Here’s how democracies slide into authoritarianism (6/27/23). He has also authored an Op-Ed published this week in the Miami Herald. Can Gov. DeSantis’ campaign for president manage to rise from the dead? (8/9/23). In today’s 30-minute podcast, Howard does not mince words about the challenges ahead and what citizens must do to respond effectively to the rising threat of authoritarianism in Florida and beyond, including the vital role women can play in the democratic process. (Frank Fear and Amanda Simat host today’s podcast on behalf of Women’s March Fort Myers.)

WMFM endorses Karen Watson for Lee County Commissioner, District 2. Karen, a write-in candidate, is running At-Large, which means EVERY eligible voter in Lee County can vote for her. Karen is a people-centered candidate who is dedicated to serving the public good. "Tell 10 to Tell 10" to Vote for Karen Watson, Write-In, Lee County Commission. Learn more about Karen's campaign at her website, and follow Karen on Facebook. 

Endorsed by Women's March Fort Myers, Cindy Banyai is a 2022 candidate for the U.S. House of Representatives, FL-19.  Visit Cindy's website and follow Cindy on Facebook and YouTube. Vote in the November Election! 

"Bans Off Our Bodies," a rally for reproductive rights and justice was held in downtown Fort Myers, FL on May 14, 2022. The rally was organized by SWFL Red Cloaks, Planned Parenthood of SW and Central FL, the Lee County Chapter of the National Organization for Women, and Women's March Fort Myers with assistance and support from Peaceful Protest Lee County, Florida ACLU, and Lee County Democrats  This audiocast was hosted by Susan Dahod and produced by Frank Fear for Women's March Fort Myers. You can watch the video version on WMFM's YouTube channel. #bansoffourbodies #ourbodiesourchoice #womensrightsarehumanrights (cover photo courtesy WGCU)

In this edition of Community Conversation, WMFM's Connie Bennett Martin interviews two of our area's most prominent community organizers and advocates, Crystal Czyscon and Todd Truax. Crystal and Todd co-host a new program, "Political Prattle," on Facebook Live. It's more than talk, too. They are committed to identifying, encouraging, and assisting citizens to seek election to a variety of posts across SWFL. Crystal and Todd talk with Connie about why they decided to launch this work and how it is paying dividends. "For the public good" comes through in everything they say and do, and that is why WMFM is pleased to feature them in this series. Follow Crystal Czyscon and Todd Truax on Facebook. You can watch "Political Prattle" through either of their Facebook pages. Check out past programs under 'Videos,') Contact Todd Truax at todd@toddtruax.com. Cover photo, L-R, Connie Bennett Martin, Crystal Czyscon, and Todd Truax Listen here to Gil Scott-Heron's, The Revolution Will Not Be Televised,  #PoliticalPrattle #democracy #ForthePublicGood #politicialactivism #WMFM 

Kathy Fanny is a candidate for the Lee County School Board, District 1. Visit Kathy's website and follow Kathy on Facebook and on YouTube.

Gwyn Gittens is a candidate for the Lee County School Board, District 5. Learn more about Gwyn at her website. Follow Gwyn on Facebook and on YouTube. 

WMFM's "March for Equality" (Equality Can't-Wait) took place on Saturday, March 19, 2022, at The Alliance for the Arts in Downtown Fort Myers. We thank our sponsors, Lee County Chapter of The National Organization for Women, the Southwest Florida AFL-CIO, The Lee County League of Women Voters, Pine Island ROAR, Lee OFA Indivisible, Dr. Cindy Banyai for Congress, Planned Parenthood, and Cella Molnar & Associates, Inc. #wmfmequalitynow #equalitycantwait #equalitynow

Jacquelyn McMiller and Sue Dahod give you an overview of WMFM's "March for Equality" (Equality Can't-Wait), which will take place on Saturday, March 19, 10a, at The Alliance for the Arts in Downtown Fort Myers. We have a wonderful set of speakers lined up for you plus the song stylings of Ryleigh, recently of "The Voice," who is a Fort Myers treasure. We thank our sponsors, Lee County Chapter of The National Organization for Women, the Southwest Florida AFL-CIO, The Lee County League of Women Voters, Pine Island ROAR, Lee OFA Indivisible, Dr. Cindy Banyai for Congress, Planned Parenthood, and Cella Molnar & Associates, Inc. This video was hosted and produced by Frank Fear for Women's March Fort Myers. #wmfmequalitynow #equalitycantwait #equalitynow

Be part of a national movement by engaging locally! On Sat., Oct 2, Fort Myers will be one of nearly 700 locations around the country that is holding an event for Reproductive Rights. Women's March Fort Myers is joined by Lee County NOW, Peaceful Protest Lee County, Pine Island ROAR, Lee OFA Indivisible, Showing Up for Racial Justice (SURJ) SWFL, and Lee County Democrats. Hear from Kathy Mayo and Chantel Rhodes about why this day is important, what will happen, and how YOU can participate. #WMFMReproductiveFreedom (Audiocast hosted and produced by Frank Fear for WMFM) 

Women's March Fort Myers and the Lee County Chapter of the National Organization for Women present this program in honor of International Women’s Day, "#ChoosetoChallenge, Helping to Forge a More Gender-Equal World." The program featured Rep. Anna Eskamani, FL House District 47, on 'Challenges for Florida’s Women'; Rep. Dotie Joseph, FL House District 108 on 'Will Women Finally Get Equal Rights?'; Arlene Feddo, VP of Philanthropy at Planned Parenthood Southwest and Central Florida on 'Sexual & Reproductive Healthcare - the State of Play'; Chewe Luo, Associate Director UNICEF, on 'Women of the World, Progress, and Challenges'; and Katie Poinsett on 'Youth Voices.' We were also blessed with song stylings by Ryleigh and Linda Allen (closing song). Annisa Karim hosted the event. Listen to the program here. #ChooseToChallenge #wmfmacceptsthechallenge

On Sat., March 6, at 10a, Women's March Fort Myers and the Lee County Chapter of the National Organization for Women will present a program for International Women’s Day, "#ChoosetoChallenge, Helping to Forge a More Gender-Equal World." The event will feature the voices of Rep. Anna Eskamani, FL House District 47, on 'Challenges for Florida’s Women'; Rep. Dotie Joseph, FL House District 108 on 'Will Women Finally Get Equal Rights?'; Arlene Feddo, VP of Philanthropy at Planned Parenthood Southwest and Central Florida on 'Sexual & Reproductive Healthcare - the State of Play'; Chewe Luo, Assoc. Director UNICEF, on 'Women of the World, Progress, and Challenges'; and Katie Poinsett on 'Youth Voices.' Annisa Karim will host the event. Listen here as Annisa talks about the program and encourages you to participate. #wmfmacceptsthechallenge Register here.