I’m honored to share a brief reflection on what it was like for the National Episcopal Church Women to participate in CSW70.
Participating was both inspiring, energizing, and exhausting. For National ECW, it was an opportunity not only to listen and learn, but also to actively contribute to important global conversations—particularly those that intersect with faith, advocacy, and justice.
One of the highlights of our participation was our own parallel event titled “Advocating for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women,” which took place virtually on March 11. I’m pleased to share that this event was a meaningful success. We created a space for education, reflection, and advocacy around the crisis of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women—often referred to as MMIW. The conversation was powerful, informative, and deeply moving, and it reinforced the importance of continuing this work beyond CSW70.
For those who were unable to attend, the recording of this event is now available on our YouTube channel, National Episcopal Church Women. I encourage everyone to watch, share, and continue learning.
While CSW70 has concluded, our work certainly has not. There are many ways Episcopalians can stay connected with National ECW and continue supporting our efforts in parishes and dioceses across the country.
For those who feel called to support the cause of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women in a tangible way, we offer an opportunity to give. Donations can be made online through our website. For a contribution of $30, donors will receive an MMIW t-shirt, with all proceeds going directly toward advocacy efforts supporting this critical cause.
Additionally, we invite everyone to participate in the Red Dress Movement, observed each year on May 5. This powerful movement raises awareness and honors the lives of Indigenous girls, women and two-spirit people who have been lost. Participation can take many forms, and we encourage involvement at the parish and Diocesan levels. We encourage our ECW sisters to wear red on May 5, hang red dresses in windows or trees or on their porches, support local indigenous-led events, and educate others on MMIW issues. Women can gather for prayer or hold a prayer vigil on May 5. They can also host gatherings to view our MMIW presentation on the National ECW YouTube channel. Social media is also a great way to share stories and information using hashtags like #RedDressDay and #MMIW.
In closing, CSW70 was not just an event—it was a catalyst. It reminded us that our voices matter, our actions matter, and together, we can and must continue to advocate for justice, healing, and change. We have come along way in gaining rights for girls and women, but as CSW70 made very clear, we still have many obstacles to overcome, and it will take a concerted effort on the part of all women to make sure we don’t continue to slide backwards rather than moving forward. I encourage everyone to talk to their church leaders regarding this. Talk to your mothers and fathers. Talk to your husbands. Talk to your children and most importantly talk to your elected officials. Women’s justice is everyone’s justice.
Thank you.
Lisa Bortner
NECW President 2024 – 2027