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HERd VOICES.
Empowering Women in Policy and Climate Action. One voice at a time.

Women being told to Stand on the Sidelines in Policy Rooms

Mayor Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft is paving the way for women in the policy field as she serves as Alameda's mayor for the past 7 years. A analysis by the Center for American Women and Politics (CAWP) found that only about 25.1% of mayors in U.S. cities with populations over 30,000 were women. What sorts of challenges does this underrepresentation create for women? Listen to Alameda's mayor discuss her challenges of entering law offices and being asked "are you the court-reporter?" and many more instances of facing harsh stereotypes. How do you combat these prejudices? How do you respond patiently and calmly, and most importantly, effectively?

Humanities and Compassion in the Gaza and Environmental Crisis.

In this episode of HERd Voices we sit down with Alameda's first Arab American mayor, to talk about her experience advocating for compassion in politics and how empathy can shape environmental action. We explore why encouraging public transit isn’t just about cutting emissions but also about reconnecting with our communities, improving mental and physical health, and building a culture that values both people and the planet. Join Tonia Chen and Mayor Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft in this discussion.

How can Policy Expand Public Transportation and How it's Saving our Planet.

In this episode of HERd Voices we explore how policy can expand public transportation and why it’s key to saving our planet. From the nine Bay Area counties linked by buses, trains, and ferries to the 27 transit systems working to avoid a fiscal cliff, we unpack how environmental policy and pollution intersect through mobility. We also look at how changing human work patterns reshape transportation needs and how something as simple as a bike lane can reduce emissions, boost quality of life, and strengthen community connection.

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