Pennsylvania Federation of Democratic Women
Our Mission: In 1927, the Pennsylvania Federation of Democratic Women Inc., was founded to promote the appointment and election of Democratic women to responsible positions within all branches of government, to encourage the advancement of women in both the public and private sectors, and to advocate the principles of the Democratic Party.
Organization: Today the Federation claims more than 1,400 members in local affiliates throughout the counties of the commonwealth. These associations are grouped into 18 geographic regions, each coordinated by a director. The state Executive Board consists of a president, six vice-presidents, a treasurer, corresponding and recording secretaries, and committee chairs. For a list of past presidents click HERE.
Campaign Networking: The Federation neither endorses nor backs candidates during primary elections. In general elections, however, the organization actively supports the nominees and the platform of the Democratic Party.
Political Action Committee (PAC): Funded by the Century Club and other contributors, the Federation’s PAC provides financial assistance and resources to qualified Democratic candidates for local, state, and federal offices. PFDW does not endorse any candidate before the primary, however our members are free to endorse candidates. For additional information on our PAC, please visit our PAC Overview page.
Memorial Scholarship Awards: Women college students whose need and dedication to Democratic principles are noteworthy may apply for PFDW scholarships. A local club or member may recommend Pennsylvania female college sophomores or juniors for multiple scholarships which are awarded annually. To learn more or apply for the scholarship visit our Memorial Scholarship page.
Outstanding Elected Democratic Women’s Brunch: Each year the Federation honors outstanding Democratic women elected to public office in Pennsylvania. The honorees have made significant contributions to the commonwealth, have supported the Federation and the Democratic party, and have consistently aided other women seeking elective office. For more information click HERE.
Women’s Day: In 1939, Eleanor Roosevelt suggested that a Democratic Women’s Day become an annual event. Building on Eleanor’s suggestion, each federated club in Pennsylvania is urged to celebrate Women’s Day with a fund-raising event for the benefit of the PFDW’s Memorial Scholarship Fund. Visit our Women’s Day event page for additional information.
Woman of the Year: Each year, by March 31, each club and/or board member is asked to nominate a PFDW member who has demonstrated exceptional dedication and meets the required criteria. From these nominations, the annual PFDW Woman of the Year is selected and is recognized at a special dinner during the annual convention. For a list of past award recipients click HERE and if you’d like additional information on the event visit the Woman of the Year page.
The Survey: The Federation publishes the Survey, its newsletter, and distributes copies to approximately 3,000 readers including members of both the Pennsylvania Senate and House of Representatives.
Annual Convention: The site of the convention changes each year. The conference highlights speakers, workshops, programs, election of officers, discussions with candidates for statewide office, and debates on state and national issues. For a list of past convention sites click HERE.
