"Philadelphia is more than just the cradle of democracy this weekend -- it's also a hotbed of activism.  The 2001 National NOW Conference and the Pro-Democracy Convention will draw thousands from across the country to strategize to counter the Bush Administration," said National Organization for Women (NOW) President Patricia Ireland. "Leaders from all parts of the women's and civil rights and electoral reform movements are convening at these two events to create an energized and skilled core of organizers. And together, we will make a difference." Ireland will join other activists to kick off both events with a news conference on Friday, June 29.
 

"Activists at the 2001 National NOW Conference will participate in leadership training and skills building sessions and will elect new leaders to head this organization," Ireland said. "While NOW conference attendees learn how to recruit and elect feminists to all levels of government, folks at the Pro-Democracy Convention will be shaping the debate around election reform and helping create a better system into which feminist can be elected."

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