In keeping with WDI USA’s Bylaws, the Board of Directors elects members for the coming year at an annual meeting, traditionally held in mid summer. Before that takes place, those of us who hope to stay on would like to thank two colleagues who have decided not to renew their terms.
Elizabeth Chesak served as president of the board from 2024 to 2026 after serving a term as chief of staff. Highlights of Elizabeth’s tenure include strengthening both the volunteer program and the group of state contacts, submitting friend of the court briefs before the Supreme Court for the first time, lobbying the federal government in writing and in person, and expanding our action on state legislation from fewer than 70 bills in 2023 to more than 160 last year. Elizabeth also cofounded and facilitated the Desisted and Detransitioned Women’s Caucus and took a lead role in organizing WDI USA’s excellent annual conventions in Atlanta (2024) and Indianapolis (2025).
Elizabeth writes:
“It has truly been my pleasure and honor to lead WDI USA for the past nearly two years. It’s been nothing short of amazing to watch the tide turn on gender identity ideology. Although the fight is far from over, I am proud of all we have accomplished, and I look forward to seeing where WDI USA’s future leadership takes us next.
My 30th birthday is this September. While #TERFlife will always have a special place in my heart, right now it’s time for some new projects and goals related to my personal life and my career, as well as a rekindling of some old interests.
Adrienne Rich was right when she said, “The connections between and among women are the most feared, the most problematic, and the most potentially transforming force on the planet.” It has been a joy to get to know so many incredible, dedicated women these past few years, not least my fellow members on the WDI USA Board. You’re all invited to my TERF dance party, where we’re kicking off with “I’m Every Woman” by Chaka Khan: “I’m every woman / It’s all in me.…””
Lorraine Nowlin joined the board in 2021. As a director, cofounder and facilitator of the Black Women’s Caucus, and lifelong observer and analyst of women’s experiences across race, class, and national borders, Lorraine has produced or helped produce some of WDI USA’s most important and insightful essays, interviews, and talks, including the Black Women’s Caucus Statement Against Gender Ideology, which was retweeted by JK Rowling! We encourage you to search “Lorraine Nowlin” plus “WDI USA” and read or watch every link the Internet has. Or you can start with her Substack or our website. Lorraine has brought the same intellectual and ethical clarity to her work on the board every week.
Lorraine writes:
“Serving on the WDI USA Board of Directors and as a volunteer is among the best decisions I’ve ever made. Although I am stepping down at the end of this term, I credit my time with this organization with providing me with the tools I need to advocate effectively. This is not a goodbye to advocating for women and girls. I’m just taking the next step. I will be dedicating most of my time to my teenage daughters, one of whom is a rising high school senior facing a busy year. In addition, I’ll be focused on my creative projects, including finishing a book, continuing my Substack, and doing more public speaking.”
Join the Board of Directors!
The deadline for board applications is Friday, July 31, 2026. Some qualifications include being a signatory to the Declaration on Women’s Sex-Based Rights, understanding of and dedication to radical feminist principles, and the ability to engage skillfully, creatively, and ethically in strategic thinking.
We are committed to developing a broader talent pool and matching dedicated women with leadership opportunities. Alongside evaluating each candidate individually, we are seeking to craft a group that has a wide array of skills, interests, life experiences, and perspectives.
Reach out to [email protected] with questions or to submit your application.
Respectfully,
Ildiko Archer
Katherine Kinney
Holly Stewart
