On Aug. 26, we celebrated Women’s Equality Day, a day first recognized in 1973 to commemorate the certification of the 19th Amendment in 1920, which granted women the right to vote.

This day offers a moment to reflect on the progress made since women won the right to vote, but also to acknowledge the work that still lies ahead in the pursuit of full equality in the United States. For instance, in 2024, women continue to earn approximately 84 cents for every dollar earned by men for the same job — a figure that has changed little in the past 20 years. Equal pay is not just a matter of fairness; it impacts every facet of women’s lives, from their ability to support themselves and their families, to owning property and living independently. Women’s Equality Day is a meaningful reminder of the importance of advancing women’s rights.

One way to contribute to a more equitable future for women is to connect with and support one another. Joining a Women Leading Travel & Hospitality Regional Meetup is a great way to do just that. These in-person meetups bring together our community of executive-level women who are passionate about making meaningful connections. Led by local members who serve as volunteer ambassadors, the meetups offer a space to share experiences, exchange ideas, and build relationships, fostering both personal and professional growth.

We have an upcoming meetup planned for Dallas on Oct. 3 at the Omni Las Colinas Hotel with our sister association, Women in Retail. You can register for that meetup here. Lastly, a meetup is being planned for South Florida this fall, as well as other cities, so be sure to check our events calendar regularly!

You might also consider attending one (or more!) of our Roundtable events held in various cities: New York (Oct. 28), and Las Vegas (Dec. 5). These events provide excellent opportunities to uplift each other and build valuable connections.

In addition, becoming a Women Leading Travel & Hospitality member is another way to engage with a community of over 400 successful, motivated and passionate women across the travel and hospitality ecosystem. Our members, from CEOs to directors, share a commitment to learning from each other and supporting one another’s success. Your company might also consider becoming a corporate partner, enabling groups of women executives at travel and hospitality companies to become better leaders and more engaged employees through our events, content, and development programs.

Whether you’re looking to expand your network, learn from other industry leaders, or simply connect with like-minded women in celebration of Women’s Equality Day, we invite you to join us!