Original Publication: SELF By Zahra Barnes

NOW President Toni Van Pelt tells SELF: “This Women’s Equality Day—and every day—I am grateful for grassroots activists across the country. Feminists working in their communities have been at the heart of every major victory women have achieved: sending women of color to Congress, securing marriage equality, defeating this summer’s monstrous health care bill, and so much more. Knocking on doors and calling members of Congress isn’t glamorous, but it drives real, meaningful change for women. Whether they have been working hard for decades or were called to action after the 2016 election, these women know the future is female. I am humbled every day by their fierce dedication.”