July 2025 Newsletter
Justice, Joy & New Beginnings.
While July may have felt like a quieter month on the surface, it was one of deep reflection, meaningful connection, and powerful preparation.
As we look ahead to South Carolina’s 2026 Legislative Session, the WREN team has been hard at work laying the foundation for the bold advocacy we’ll continue to bring. This month, we uplifted Disability Pride Month in partnership with Able SC, recognized Black Women’s Equal Pay Day, and honored BIPOC Mental Health Month. We celebrated and spotlighted community members who are pushing for progress at every level, and we reflected on how fighting for justice is our way of honoring freedom.
I’m especially proud to share that WREN was selected to join the inaugural State Gender Policy Collective Fellowship led by the National Women’s Law Center. Our Chief Strategy Officer, Ashley Lidow, will represent us alongside Senator Tameika Isaac Devine in a national cohort of change-makers advancing gender equity across the country. This is a significant moment for WREN, and for South Carolina.
We’re moving forward, together. Thank you for being with us.
Policy Update from Chief Strategy Officer Ashley Lidow
This month, we hosted an inspiring conversation on the CROWN Act – legislation that would ban race-based hair discrimination in South Carolina.
In our webinar, “The CROWN Act: Advancing Racial Equity and Protecting Hair Freedom,” we were joined by powerful voices including author and advocate C. Michelle Greene-Smalls and Senator Tameika Isaac Devine. Together, we unpacked the history of the CROWN Act, examined the current legal landscape in our state, and heard real stories from South Carolinians who have been impacted by hair discrimination.
Events Recap from Partnership & Engagement Associate Aisha Jones
While the South Carolina Legislature is on break, our momentum hasn’t slowed. We’ve been staying connected through virtual engagement, community conversations, and planning for the months ahead.
On July 8, I had the honor of joining a national webinar, “Facing the Attacks on Gender Justice Together,” hosted by the State Gender Policy Collective and the National Women’s Law Center. It was incredibly meaningful to speak about the work we do here at WREN and to connect with others committed to advancing gender justice across the country.
Looking ahead, we’re preparing for a full August of in-person events across the state, from the Upstate to the Pee Dee to the Lowcountry. We can’t wait to connect with you.
Thank you for being part of this movement. We’re in this together!
Donor Relations Note from our CEO Dr. Amalia Luxardo
This summer has been a season of powerful transitions and renewed energy at WREN, and I want to share an exciting update with you.
Our incredible Senior Director of Development has moved on to a new chapter, and we are so grateful for their many contributions to WREN’s growth. At the same time, we’re thrilled to welcome Simone Davis to our team! Simone brings deep passion and experience to our mission, and we’re excited for you to get to know her as she helps lead the charge in building a stronger, more connected WREN community.
I’ve been spending meaningful time in community, hearing from advocates, partners, and supporters like you. It’s clear: the need for bold, people-centered policy work in South Carolina has never been greater, and neither has our momentum. Your support is what makes that possible. Thank you for standing with us, and for fueling the movement for equity in South Carolina.
Here’s to another month ahead as we fight for a liberated South Carolina for women and girls, together.
In community,
Dr. Amalia Luxardo, CEO
Women’s Rights & Empowerment Network