James A. Haley Veterans’ Hospital Observes Women’s Equality Day with Inspiring Virtual Event

The event featured two distinguished speakers and a Q&A session, providing attendees with valuable insights and a sense of community and shared purpose.

“Today’s event is an opportunity for us to come together to learn, to remember, and to celebrate in unity,” said Mamie Richardson, Federal Women’s Special Emphasis Program manager. “This observance honors the women who fought, and those who continue to fight for equality for women every day. Remember, your voice matters.”

The event kicked off with Team Tampa’s Acting Deputy Associate Director of Patient Care and Navy Veteran, Dr. Angela Nimmo sharing a informative presentation on the history of women’s rights in the U.S., beginning with celebrating the ratification of woman’s right to vote with the 19th amendment in 1920. She discussed influential pioneers for Women’s Equality in the civilian and the military worlds, including Susan B. Anthony, Frederick Douglas and Coast Guard Admiral Linda Fagan. Her address also focused on the broader systemic challenges that need addressing to ensure fair treatment for all and a comparison of Women’s Equality from as far back as the 1950’s until today, illustrating the progress made in over 70 years.

“It’s interesting when you look back on all of the accomplishments and all of the changes that have happened in the Navy in the last hundred years,” said Nimmo. “We have come a long way, but I remember the days when I first joined the military and a lot of the senior ranking officers were single because they had dedicated their career and their lives to the Navy and didn’t have an opportunity to have children.”

Nimmo’s presentation was followed by a powerful keynote speech from Florida State House Minority Leader Fentrice Driskell, who represents District 67. While sharing her personal experiences and observations, Driskell also acknowledged the ongoing challenges women face in achieving true equality. Driskell highlighted the need for continuous advocacy and representation in all areas of leadership, underscoring the importance of women’s voices in decision-making processes.

“I have such a heart for Veterans, especially Women Veterans,” said Driskell. “I got very involved with nonprofits like Tampa Crossroads. We did a lot of work with the Veteran community, particularly Women Veterans. In 2008, we established the Athena House, which was specifically designed to provide housing and care for homeless Women Veterans. I was so enamored with this program, because it was an opportunity to give back to women that had put everything on the line for their country.”

A highpoint in the event was the interactive Q&A session, where participants engaged directly with the speakers, asking insightful questions about the strategies and steps necessary to advance women's rights in various sectors. Attendees left the event with a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding gender equality and the inspiration to continue advocating for change.

“We are here today to celebrate Women’s Equality. It’s an opportunity for us to reflect on, encourage and celebrate the achievements of women in history and recognize the ongoing journey toward gender equality,” said Jennifer Naegele, Equal Employment Opportunity manager. “This day reminds us to empower and celebrate women’s diverse experiences worldwide.”

The Women’s Special Emphasis Program remains committed to promoting diversity and inclusion through ongoing events and initiatives aimed at fostering dialogue and understanding.

For more information about VA Office of Resolution Management, Diversity & Inclusion and Special Emphasis programs visit: https://www.va.gov/ORMDI/ or to learn more about advocacy groups for women employed by the federal government, visit: https://www.few.org/.