Members Sought for the Cambridge Commission on the Status of Women. Application Deadline 12-12-22.

Cambridge City Manager Yi-An Huang is seeking persons interested in serving on the Cambridge Commission on the Status of Women. The application deadline is Monday, December 12, 2022.

About Cambridge Commission on the Status of Women 
The Cambridge Commission on the Status of Women (CCSW) recognizes, supports, and advocates for all who self-identify as women or with womanhood, including transgender, gender fluid, and non-binary persons. The Commission stands with and for all women and girls, regardless of immigration status, sexuality, race, ethnicity, ability or religion. Commissioners support staff in their mission to promote equity for all women and girls, and advocate on their behalf with other City departments, officials, and local organizations to increase their opportunities through policy recommendations and program development.

Commissioners help staff create and promote programs and services that:

• Foster the advancement of women and girls within the city;
• Create and promote programs that increase public awareness and understanding of multiple issue areas, including but not limited to gender-based violence, women’s history, women’s health, racism, and workplace equity;
• Provide technical assistance, information, and referral to individuals, community organizations, businesses, and other city departments related to women’s and girls’ services;
• Work with community organizations and coalitions to promote the advancement of Cambridge women and girls.

Skills and Abilities Needed to Serve on Cambridge Women's Commission
While experience working with women and girls is not a requirement, a commitment to and an interest in principles of anti-racism, equity, anti-oppression, autonomy, and dignity for women and girls is required. Additionally, all Commissioners must be Cambridge residents.

The city is committed to advancing a culture of antiracism, diversity, equity, and inclusion. All board and commission members in Cambridge must have the ability to work and interact effectively with individuals and groups with a variety of identities, cultures, backgrounds, and ideologies. Women, minorities, veterans, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

Commissioners should be able to:

• Participate in a collaborative process;
• Consider diverse ideas and perspectives;
• Represent the Commission at community meetings;
• Bring the needs and issues of the communities you connect with back to the Commission;
• Be aware of your own privilege and power; how you use it and how it influences your experiences in the world.

Meetings
Under the provisions of the Massachusetts Open Meeting Law, meetings are usually required to be in person. However, the Women’s Commission has been meeting remotely under the temporary Open Meeting Law provisions established during the COVID-19 pandemic and will likely continue to meet remotely through March 2023. Currently, the Women’s Commission meetings are held virtually on the second Wednesday of every month, at 6 p.m. for two hours. Commissioners are expected to attend these monthly meetings, in addition to community events, programs, and meetings as needed and as able. The position is a three-year term.

Women who may have a harder time meeting these time commitments – single parents, jobs requiring evening hours, unstable computer access, etc. are also encouraged to apply and we will work to accommodate as best we can.

How to Apply
Individuals interested in being considered should apply by using the City’s online application system at www.cambridgema.gov/apply and selecting “Commission on the Status of Women” in the list of Current Vacancies. A cover letter and résumé or summary of applicable experience can be submitted during the online application process. Paper applications are available in the City Manager’s Office at Cambridge City Hall, 795 Massachusetts Avenue. The deadline for submitting applications is December 12, 2022.