Civic Leadership & Engagement

Georgia State Senator Tonya Anderson (D43) and Georgia State Representative Kim Schofield (D60) came together to kick things off at the WEOP’s annual business summit. Senator Anderson focused her discussion on the implications of policy from a leadership, professional, personal and political perspective. Representative Schofield shared actionable insight into the full potential that a female entrepreneur can reach by being politically active. Both women shared some details regarding the status of the Crown Act, which prevents discrimination against black people for growing and showing their natural hair in the work place and in schools.

Representative Schofield outlined four areas where we face the implications of policy/policy changes:

As leaders:

         “Everything is political,” said Schofield. “Even if you don’t think you are a political person.”

Women are continually being scrutinized, asked what their leadership credentials are and why they are credible in their field.

         To this end, we have to be Subject Matter Experts in all we do. “We have to make sure our stuff is tight.” By being an expert when you walk in a room, you shape the narrative. And, with a reference to the new famous Hamilton lyrics, you want to be in the room where it happens. “Be confident and courageous in your leadership position. If you can’t get a room and get a seat at the table, wait outside the door.”

By being a subject matter expert and by getting yourself in the room, you not only show up but you lean in and stand out.

As professionals:

It’s critical to surround yourself with resources, from books to people. Historically, men have been stronger at this. Women need to be more mindful about who they have coffee with, who they are networking (or “net weaving”) with, and who you are connecting with. We need to expand our networks and exchange information from procurement, to licensure; deliberately learn from the people and organizations that help grow you.

On a personal level:

You have to be progressive. Courageous. Bold. “I don’t align myself with people who are not progressive enough to take a chance and take a risk,” says Schofield. She also develops relationships with people who will hold her accountable.

On a political level:

Ensure you know the people who are making the legal decisions concerning your business. Who is governing you? You need to know (e.g.) the Commissioners, Mayors, Council Members, and the Chairs of business and economic development. They are champions that will advocate for the interest of business owners.

Get engaged and attend meetings so you understand how they are making decisions and what decisions they are making. “If they are not talking to you then you don’t matter,” said Schofield. “Make yourself too relevant to be ignored.”

Senator Anderson focused on political activism:

Senator Anderson explained that female entrepreneurs have to understand the law and how it affects their businesses, both the regulations and the related implications. A change in the law impacts the way they need to do business. In particular, changes to and decisions about taxation laws are happening all the time. Keeping up to date with what is new and what is coming next will help you stay in compliance.

Because business law effects employer to employee relationships and vice versa, it is essential to stay on top of topics like wages, fair policies and federal regulations regarding overtime. Additionally, everybody wants to be global/international. Staying on top of the laws will help you stay on top of your game and allow you to grow your business.

Where do we go to educate ourselves on the law?

• While in session (January through March), visit http://www.legis.ga.gov/en-US/default.aspx, choose between the house and the senate, and watch live stream the action in the chamber.
• Visit https://openstates.org/ at anytime, put in your home address (or use your current location) to discover your state representatives.
  • Email, call or interact with your representatives via social media.
  • Do not be discouraged if you do not hear back right away; they “start each day with at least 200 emails” so responding to everyone takes time
• Contact Representative Kim Schofield at: schofield@houses.ga.gove or via phone: 404-656-0220.
• Engage on the “Friends of Senator Tonya P. Andersen” Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/electtonyapanderson/).

About the Crown Act:

• Senator Anderson grounded her explanation of the act referencing the strong national movement for Black women to embrace their natural hair. She explained that to date, Black people with natural hair have been perceived as less credible, less intelligent and less educated — unfortunately that’s an implicit bias that does exist and needs to be overcome.
• The Crown Act would prevent discrimination against black people for growing/showing their natural hair in the work place and in schools. It is intended to protect individuals as well as public and private businesses. Seven states have passed laws to ban natural hair discrimination; twenty three additional states have introduced related legislation as well, including Georgia. On a national level, this bill has passed the US House of Representatives; we are waiting for it to pass within the Senate.

Will the Crown Act come into play if a woman’s hairstyle precludes their ability to wear a cap that is part of a mandatory uniform?

• This issue will be addressed in the protection; legislators in support of the act are going to make sure it covers everything.
• Visit https://www.thecrownact.com/about to learn more.

Summary: 

• It is time for us, as women, and women of color in particular, to step into our rightful place and do it with boldness and conviction.
• We need to serve as subject matter experts in all we do.
• Our professional connections are vital to advance our businesses — we need to focus on strengthening our network.
• Each of us should get to know our governing body — from local politicians to state legislators to national representatives.