#USOW - Free Speech and Solutions

The White House Summit for The United State of Women took place earlier this week and I am humbled and delighted to share that I was invited to attend along with about 5,000 other women from around the world who are involved in improving opportunities, freedom and access for women and girls. It was an amazing day of hearing messages, stories, advice and solutions from hardworking engaged public servants, business leaders, union leaders, students, at-home mothers and champions of women such as President Barack Obama, Vice President Biden, First Lady Michelle Obama, Oprah Winfrey, Warren Buffett, and so many others. It was an amazing experience. I'm still processing everything I took in that day. I left that evening feeling enlightened, inspired and blessed.

With the full day of scheduled events and the sheer volume of humans in the space, one might have expected all manner of regrettable exchanges. I have to say that I experienced and witnessed such wonderful courtesy and respectfulness among attendees - even as there was the occasional disagreement or misunderstanding.

Some may wonder what the relevance of etiquette, manners and protocol has in the empowerment of girls. I am of the opinion that many girls who have not received etiquette training of any kind are at a disadvantage when making her way in the world. If she has any self-awareness (as most girls and young women do), she exhibits greater confidence and more importantly feels more at ease as she meets new people and can enjoy new experiences as she rises and grows. Something as simple as a proper handshake or a clear self-introduction can open doors that otherwise may have remained closed.

As for me personally, while I am by no means at my best all the time, at this point, I certainly try to be a good example to help show how etiquette skills can help girls to be a little less awkward, a little more at ease and a lot more powerful in social situations. I contend that a girl who understands etiquette skills is better positioned to enjoy a greater life.

In the spirit of the event, I invite you to visit the USOW website to learn more and pledge to be better.

Sincerely,

Mrs. Leverette

#usow #confidence #changemaker #WashingtonDC #UnitedStateofWomen