Dr. Ruth Jones Nichols, YWCA USA Interim CEO, issued the following statement in response to the outcome of the November 3, 2026, election:
“Yesterday - despite a year fraught with attempts to suppress and intimidate voters - democracy prevailed, history was made, glass ceilings were shattered, and voters made their voices heard on issues that shape our lives and strengthen our communities.
From child care and early learning to freedom from domestic and sexual violence, safe and stable housing, and economic opportunity, voters demonstrated the importance of electing leaders who understand what women, girls, and families need to thrive, and who reflect the communities and lived experiences of the people they serve. These are more than policy priorities. They are the everyday realities of the millions of people YWCA Local Associations serve across the nation.
Voters did more than elect leaders in Congress who reflect their values. Across the country, they demonstrated the power of civic engagement and the demand for leaders who put the people in their districts and communities first. In states like Georgia, Ohio, and Texas, where women will take charge for the first time in the governors’ seat, and in Pennsylvania and Wisconsin – where state legislatures shifted toward leaders who prioritize child care, early learning, and economic stability.
For more than 167 years, through wars, recessions, rights won, and rights rolled back – YWCA has remained steadfast in our commitment to justice and meeting the needs of our communities regardless of which party holds the majority.
YWCA will continue to center the people whose lives are shaped by the decisions leaders make: the mother choosing between a paycheck and childcare, the survivor of domestic violence who needs a safe door to walk through tonight, and the family one missed rent payment away from losing their home.
We look forward to working with all elected leaders who share our vision to eliminate racism, empower women, and build a world where all women, girls, and families can thrive.”