The U.S. Women’s Power and Influence Index

The U.S. Women’s Power and Influence Index assesses women’s power and influence in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. The index comprehensively analyzes the economic security and well-being, health and safety, civic engagement and political inclusion, and public policy and legal protections for women in each state.

Looking ahead, much work must be done to build women’s power and influence in the U.S. and ensure that their safety, economic well-being, access to high-quality health care, and rights do not depend on their state of residence. This is undeniable.  The enormous and pernicious variations in laws, public policies, and representation across the states have led to disparate outcomes for women. Factors such as race, ethnicity, citizenship status, and class disparities further worsen gender inequalities in the U.S. Even in states that rank highly, women of color struggle more than their white counterparts in nearly every measure of success and well-being. This moment calls for increased power and influence through greater political representation at all government levels, enhanced civic engagement, collaboration across communities of practice and influence, and the identification of bold new strategies and tactics to close inequality gaps.  We hope the U.S. Women’s Power and Influence Index will serve as a starting point for our collective efforts and provide a roadmap to propel us forward.