Real Women Run

Real Women Run is an organization dedicated to encouraging, supporting, and teaching women how to run for elected office. Yandary Chatwin is the newest Chairperson at Real Women Run, she is a woman of color, and Utah is lucky to have her.

Chatwin is working to increase the numbers of women running, and is fighting to ensure that those running look like the communities from which they come and that they will represent. Everybody is better off when there are more voices and experiences at the decision-making table. No group should have to rely on another to ensure their rights are being protected and their voices are being heard.

“Some women don’t run, Chatwin said, because they think “that being part of a school community council isn’t good experience,” or that being a stay-at-home mom means “that they don’t have what it takes to be involved.”“I’m sorry, but if there’s anyone who is familiar with multitasking and prioritizing … it would be that woman,” Chatwin said.

In 2012, four Real Women Run participants ran for office and one was elected, according to Chatwin. Last year, 43 participants ran and 26 were elected, Chatwin said.” Utah is moving in the right direction and groups like Real Women Run are part of the reason. Read more about Real Women Run and Chatwin here.