Ten Years Making a Difference for Georgia Women

April 7, 2009

winlist

by Kathy Groob

They are businesswomen, psychologists, attorneys, activists and government officials.  Strong, smart women from Georgia came together 10 years ago this fall to provide support and funding for Democratic women candidates.  Georgia’s WIN List has grown to over 5,000 donors and contributed $60,000 to endorsed female candidates in the 2008 election cycle.

“Early money in races is what gives our female candidates the credibility they need to be taken seriously,” said Amy Morton Chair and board member of WIN list. “It is a huge task to raise money and to get women to think about themselves as elected officials.” 

In addition to raising money, the group focuses on recruiting.  “We work collaboratively with other Democratic organizations to help recruit women as candidates – especially in districts where women can win.  We also look beyond the usual suspect as candidates, we are looking for high quality individuals who might not think of themselves as a candidate,” said Morton.  Melita Easters founded the WIN List and she remains as a member of the board today.

Georgia’s WIN List has had a number of successes.  Two new women were elected to Georgia House of Representatives – Dee Dawkins-Haigler and Pat Dooley.   WIN List helped return and protect every single female incumbent endorsed candidate, all but one.

“Our organization has been successful in improving the numbers for women throughout our 10 years in action,” said Morton.  19% of Georgia’s members in the legislature are now women.  One particular endorsed candidate, Nikki Randall, is the youngest woman elected to the general assembly and the first African American from her district. 

“It’s important to see women and girls in places of leadership.  It gives me great personal pleasure to see women succeed in political positions and in business,” said Amy Morton.  “I have a true love of politics.  I grew up discussing politics on my grandmother’s porch on Sunday afternoons, debating politics.  I’ve always had a love of the subject.  We just need to bring more women into the process.”

Georgia’s WIN List is gearing up for 2010 elections and is planning a fundraising event for this May. 

To contribute or to get involved in Georgia’s WIN List, visit: www.georgiawinlist.com or call 770-489-6689.