Over the weekend, the @masscsw, an independent state agency committed to advancing the rights and equal opportunities for all women and girls in the Commonwealth, and specifically one of our Commissioners, Giselle Byrd, was the subject of a particularly vicious online attack that incited hateful language and violent rhetoric against one of our own. We stand in outrage with our fellow Commissioner Byrd and remain committed to protecting the safety of not only our state and regional commissioners, but of every marginalized individual threatened by violence both online and in person.

We are concerned with the safety of our Commissioner, who has received overt death threats and violent threats against her person as a result of this hateful and factually incorrect article. We condemn violence and threats against women and girls in all forms.

It is the mission of the Commission to advance women and girls toward full equality in all areas of life, promoting rights and opportunities for all. Since our creation in 1998, the Commission has focused on advancing key policy issues that impact all women and girls. First formed by the United Nations, we do not think it is a coincidence – and are particularly struck by the irony – of this hateful attack occurring the day after International Day of Tolerance and during Trans Visibility Week. Our mission statement is clear, to promote fundamental freedoms, basic human rights, and the full enjoyment of life for ALL.

We have a duty to defend inclusivity. We stand together to say clearly – we will not be threatened or attacked by organizations and individuals with bad intentions that are out there attacking our transgender women and youth. The Commonwealth of Massachusetts has a long and storied history – more than 250 years – of fighting for basic human rights for all, and as the Commonwealth’s leading agency for women and girls, we will not back down now. Massachusetts is a place where we believe that fundamental human rights are for everyone.

Read our full statement via link in bio or on our website at masscsw.org.

The MCSW is committed to building a stronger future for women and girls across the Commonwealth.

Through our scholarship program, we’re investing in five emerging leaders with $5,000 awards for the 2026–2027 academic year. Your support helps us expand educational access, strengthen advocacy, and empower the next generation of women changemakers.

Join us in advancing equity, become a sponsor or make a donation today.

The MCSW Scholarship is still open!

In honor of our 25th Anniversary, we’re awarding five $5,000 scholarships to emerging women leaders enrolled in Massachusetts public higher education institutions. Learn more and apply using the link in our bio!

#MCSW #ScholarshipOpportunity #WomenInLeadership #Massachusetts

Join us in congratulating our Chairwoman Mary-dith Tuitt @msmary_tuitt , who was recently awarded Veteran of the Year by @militaryfriendly representing Massachusetts!

The Veteran of the Year program recognizes Veterans of strong character who have made a positive impact either while in uniform or after service. Having served fourteen years as a Navy jet mechanic on both active duty and reserve, Mary-dith exemplifies the discipline, dedication, and leadership that are hallmarks of military service.

Chairwoman Tuitt is a dedicated public servant to our communities and to our Commonwealth.

#serviceaboveself #VeteranoftheYear #womenlead

The MCSW Scholarship is designed to support five woman identifying students to complete their degree or certificate program at a Massachusetts Public Higher Education Institution.

All funds awarded are provided by the MCSW Trust Fund.

The Vice-Chair of our Program and Planning Committee, @thegisellekristina, discusses the importance of staying activated and involved in our local communities in difficult times. Read this month`s featured guest piece in the November 2025 edition of the #MCSW Monthly! Read her piece via link in bio or on our website at: https://masscsw.org/2025/11/03/caring-for-our-communities/

Today is Election Day. Your voice matters — make it count.

Find your polling place here:

sec.state.ma.us/WhereDoIVoteMA 🗳️

Throughout the year, we`ve been spotlighting our 11 regional commissions, who are working every day to make changes on the local level that leave a lasting impact on our communities and our state. This month, we’re spotlighting the Bristol County Commission on the Status of Women @bristolcountymacsw, whose mission is to provide a permanent, effective voice for women and girls in their region. Read more about what the #BCCSW has been up to in this month`s featured regional spotlight – and then be sure to follow them to stay tuned in to all the latest from Bristol County! Link in bio or via MCSW website:

https://masscsw.org/2025/11/03/november-2025-regional-spotlight-bristol-county-csw/

We’re thrilled to announce that the MCSW scholarship program is back! Applications are now open – apply now!

The MCSW will award 5 individuals with a scholarship of $5000 each for the 2026-2027 academic year. Applicants must currently be enrolled in or committed to an accredited degree or certificate program in a Massachusetts Public High Education Institution. The funds from this scholarship will go towards tuition, fees, books and related supplies or equipment for study. All funds awarded are provided by the MCSW Trust Fund, supported by the generosity of donors all across the state who believe in investing in women.

Learn more about the MCSW Scholarship Program and apply: https://bit.ly/MCSWscholarship2627