Nine Years of Power and Progress

This October, WREN celebrates nine years of advancing gender equity in South Carolina: nine years of collective power, courage, and change.

Our priorities remain clear: economic justice and reproductive freedom. These issues are deeply connected and essential to our state’s future. One in three South Carolina households still can’t afford basic needs like childcare, housing, and food. Economic justice means making sure families can find good jobs, earn fair wages, and build stability. Reproductive freedom means ensuring every person can make their own healthcare decisions and plan their futures on their own terms.

When women and families are healthy and supported, our entire state thrives.

Over the past two years, we’ve seen what’s possible when advocacy meets community power. Together, we’ve:

• Ended the sales tax on period products.
• Secured paid leave for families experiencing stillbirth.
• Expanded access to free school meals.
• Mobilized thousands to stop harmful abortion bans.

Every win represents real change, and real lives improved.

Our upcoming Status of Women and Girls in South Carolina report will reveal what many families already know: too many are struggling to meet basic needs, and inequities continue to compound. That’s why we’re taking this report on the road: to listen, learn, and ensure the policies we fight for reflect what South Carolinians truly need.

The next legislative session will bring challenges and opportunities. We’ll continue to defend reproductive freedom and push forward on childcare, paid leave, maternal health, and workplace equity. Our strategy is simple: resist harmful legislation and advance bold, community-driven solutions.

And as we look to year ten, we’re excited to host a celebration of progress and a commitment to what’s next. Stay tuned for more information on this event in the coming months!

Thank you for standing with us, showing up, and sharing your power. Together, we’re shaping a South Carolina where every woman and family can thrive.

In community,

Dr. Amalia Luxardo, CEO