Florida National Organization for Women

The Florida National Organization for Women, or Florida NOW, is a state chapter of the National Organization for Women, which was founded in 1966 and is the largest organization of female activists in the United States. Created as an organization that promoted equality for all women, it has supported the elimination of all discrimination in society. The Florida NOW chapter was established by NOW in 1973 in order to coordinate the activities of local NOW chapters in the state, to promote the foundation of new chapters, and to increase membership. Florida NOW commits itself to the affirmation of equal rights for women, the elimination of all forms of racism and sex discrimination, the recognition of gay and lesbian rights, the respect of abortion and reproductive rights, and the fulfillment of economic equality for women.

At least as early as 1972 there was a legislative coordinator in Florida, perhaps reporting to and funded by National NOW. In the latter part of 1972, Andrea Westmoreland of Deland stated that she had been appointed by NOW Regional Director Judy Lightfoot as coordinator for Florida, apparently with the assignment of organizing a statewide group. (Cf. Legislative Coordinator Correspondence, Kwea, 1971-1973). Details of the organizing process are vague, but within a year, an organized group with bylaws, elected officers, council meetings and an annual conference was in place. Karen Coolman was the first coordinator, and Gwen Cherry, the chairone.

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