At Zonta District 7, we believe advocacy is a powerful tool to advance gender equality and protect the rights of women and girls—locally, nationally, and globally. Advocacy is woven into the fabric of everything we do. We use our collective voice to influence laws, policies, and attitudes that affect women’s lives, ensuring that gender-based violence, discrimination, and inequality are addressed at every level.
What Advocacy Means to Us:
Advocacy in District 7 is more than raising awareness—it’s about taking meaningful action. Whether speaking out in our communities, engaging with policymakers, or partnering with like-minded organizations, we work tirelessly to:
- Promote policies that uphold women’s rights and gender equality.
- Challenge laws and practices that perpetuate gender-based violence and discrimination.
- Support initiatives that empower women and girls to reach their full potential.
Our Focus Areas:
- Ending Violence Against Women and Girls: Including child marriage, human trafficking, and domestic violence.
- Advancing Women’s Economic, Educational, and Leadership Opportunities.
- Protecting Human Rights and Promoting Gender Equity.
District 7 in Action:
Our clubs across District 7 actively participate in advocacy campaigns such as Zonta Says NO to Violence Against Women and engage in public awareness initiatives, legislative efforts, and strategic partnerships that drive real, lasting change. Together, we strengthen Zonta International’s voice while making a visible difference in our own communities.
Celebrating Legislative Success: Minnesota & Missouri
We are incredibly proud of our Zonta chapters in Minnesota, who have been instrumental in the successful fight to eliminate child marriage in the state. In 2020, Minnesota became the fourth state to ban child marriage without exceptions, thanks to the hard work and dedication of advocates and organizations—including Zonta members—who raised their voices and worked relentlessly toward this monumental change.
As we celebrate this success, we are also encouraged by the progress being made in Missouri. Zonta chapters in Missouri have been pivotal in advocating for stronger protections for minors, with the Missouri Senate recently passing a bill to raise the minimum marriage age to 18. The bill now moves forward in the House of Representatives, and we continue to support efforts to ensure that child marriage is outlawed in the state.
These legislative victories are proof of the power of grassroots advocacy, and we are proud of the leadership and commitment shown by our chapters in Minnesota and Missouri to protect young people and advocate for their rights.
Together, we are stronger. By advocating for policies that support women’s rights and ending violence, we help create a safer, more equitable world for everyone.
Join Us:
Your voice matters. By working together, we can influence a future where every woman and girl enjoys equal rights and opportunities. Be part of District 7’s advocacy movement—because when we speak up, change happens.
Get Involved with Zonta USA Advocacy
Zonta USA Caucus
As part of our collective advocacy efforts, Zonta USA offers resources and initiatives to empower members to advocate for women’s rights. Explore how we can engage with lawmakers, influence policy, and stand up for change through the Zonta USA Caucus.
Political Yes, Non-Partisan Yes
Zonta USA stands firm on being politically active while maintaining a non-partisan stance. Learn more about how we can advocate for policy changes without aligning with any political party, ensuring that Zonta’s voice remains united and focused on the issues that matter most.
Fast Action Fridays
Join us every Friday to take quick, impactful action in support of gender equality. On Fast Action Fridays, Zonta members across the country join together to send emails, make calls, and raise their voices on key issues affecting women and girls. Stay updated on upcoming actions and participate!
Together, we are stronger. By advocating for policies that support women’s rights and ending violence, we help create a safer, more equitable world for everyone.