Featured News
Celebrating the Class of 2025 Commonwealth Heroines
The Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Women (MCSW) is a state-established body charged with reviewing the status of women in Massachusetts and offering recommendations regarding policy that would improve access to opportunities and equality.
Learn more about the MCSWLegislative Agenda
The Commission recognizes the need for women to gain not only an equal share, but become equal participants in the areas of economics, health-care, civil rights, education and business development. The MCSW endorses and tracks legislation to achieve these goals.
S.947/H.1713
upcoming events and meetings
See all eventsMCSW Programs
As part of our mission to advance women and girls toward full equity in all areas of life, the MCSW provides several programs to promote rights and opportunities for all women and girls across Massachusetts.
Regional Commissions
We have 11 Regional Commissions throughout the state, which exponentially expand the reach of our work.
- 1 Berkshire County
- 2 Bristol County
- 3 Cape and Islands
- 4 Eastern Regional
- 5 Essex County
- 6 Hampden County
- 7 Hampshire-Franklin
- 8 MetroWest
- 9 Plymouth County
- 10 Upper Middlesex
- 11 Worcester County
Follow us and stay up-to-date
Twice a year we gather for our Regional Convening, where representatives from all 11 of our regional commissions gather together to share food, best practices, legislative priority updates and more. Thank you to everyone who joined us last night for our Spring Convening – we’re so incredibly inspired by the work that local women do every day to advance the women and girls of Massachusetts. A special thank you to Senate President Karen E. Spilka @senspilka for joining us and sharing some proud accomplishments of the legislature under your leadership – and what it means to lead in turbulent times. And finally, thank you to our hosts at Framingham Public Library @frampub for making our event such a success! #TeamMCSW
May 7
PART TWO: This year, the Class of 2026 Commonwealth Heroines is comprised of a historic 147 women from across the state, the largest class awarded to date by the #MCSW. These women are leaders in industry, business, nonprofit, advocacy, and more, and their work truly makes a difference in our local communities all across the state. Congratulations to the Class of 2026! #CH26
May 5
PART ONE: This year, the Class of 2026 Commonwealth Heroines is comprised of a historic 147 women from across the state, the largest class awarded to date by the #MCSW. These women are leaders in industry, business, nonprofit, advocacy, and more, and their work truly makes a difference in our local communities all across the state. Congratulations to the Class of 2026! #CH26
May 5
Congratulations! The #MSCW is deeply honored to announce the full list of the Class of 2026 Commonwealth Heroines and their nominating legislators.
Each year, elected officials are encouraged to submit one woman from their constituency as a means of recognizing their invaluable efforts and extraordinary acts of service, who are making a big difference in their communities but not necessarily making the news. This year, the Class of 2026 Commonwealth Heroines is comprised of a historic 147 women from across the state, the largest class awarded to date by the MCSW. These women are leaders in industry, business, nonprofit, advocacy, and more, and their work truly makes a difference in our local communities all across the state.
Join us in extending our warmest congratulations to the Class of 2026! #CH26
May 4
We are grateful to Country Bank for serving as a GELI Sponsor.
Your commitment to supporting community growth and opportunity helps create spaces where young leaders can build confidence, skills, and lasting impact!
May 3
We’re proud to recognize Related Beal as a GELI Role Model Sponsor!
Your investment in community and leadership development helps strengthen opportunities for young people to learn, lead, and reach their full potential.
May 2
International Workers` Day, celebrated annually on May 1st, honors the historic struggles and achievements of the labor movement, originating from the 1886 Chicago Haymarket affair, where workers protested for an 8-hour workday.
It is a global day of solidarity for workers` rights, marked by protests for fair wages, better conditions, and social justice
May 1
We are grateful to Wayside Youth & Family Support Network for serving as a GELI Role Model Sponsor.
Your dedication to supporting and empowering young people helps make it possible to create spaces where future leaders can grow and thrive!
May 1
We’re grateful to our next GELI Role Model Sponsor, the @womensfundsouthcoast, for supporting and uplifting the next generation of leaders.
Your partnership helps make spaces like #GELI possible, where young women are empowered to lead and grow.
Apr 30
Denim Day began in 1999 through Peace Over Violence as a way to raise awareness around sexual violence and challenge harmful narratives, including victim-blaming.
Observed on the last Wednesday of April during Sexual Assault Awareness Month, it was inspired by a case in Italy that sparked global conversation and protest.
Today, Denim Day continues as a collective moment to stand in support of survivors and promote a more informed, compassionate dialogue.
Apr 29