28 years ago, based on the historic Fourth World Conference on Women, in Beijing, US Women Connect was born.  In 1996, it became a federally recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit.  Its founder, Marilyn Fowler, believed a "trail of light" could be built, one woman at a time, and one American state at a time.  She dedicated her life to listening to every corner of the country, including migrant farm workers, women from different cultures, and women of varying ages, ethnicities, and socio-economic backgrounds.  Diversity was her hallmark.  Along with co-leaders, this vision was organized, blended into a vehicle for change, and ultimately formed the US Women's Agenda; where it was brought directly to  policymakers, legislators, and the US Congress.  Additionally, she accredited the organizaton with the United Nations for Women, spearheaded the US Women's Caucus at the United Nations, and founded the Women's Intercultural Network.  This legacy of partnership -- including core guidance from Native American leaders -- is at the heart of US Women Connect initiatives.  We stand resolute in safety and empowerment -- not only for US women and girls, but for men, boys, and all people living in America.