In Washington, DC, the Fellows met with some of the most influential policy leaders and were hosted at many of America’s most impressive...
In Washington, DC, the Fellows met with some of the most influential policy leaders and were hosted at many of America’s most impressive institutions. Our four days in Washington, DC were packed with meetings at the State Department, U.S. Institute of Peace, Freedom House, Meridian International, the Broadcasting Board of Governors, the Chamber of Commerce, the American Bar Associations, American University, Capitol Hill, and even a tour of the White House. Everyone benefited from discussions, meetings, receptions and a luncheon co-hosted by Jane Harman and the Wilson Center. Building upon the foundation begun in Dallas, each meeting tied back to the core competencies in the curriculum of the Fellowship.
During an early morning visit to the National Archives of the United States, the Fellows were welcomed by the Archivist of the United States and his incredible team who showed us some of America’s most treasured documents. Standing in the majestic rotunda in which the Constitution and Bill of Rights are housed, we reflected on the weightiness of the words in these documents and the courage and foresight of the authors and signers. But, most importantly, we discussed the important components of a strong constitution and a robust democracy – for which Egyptians are currently striving. Following a visit to the Archives, the Fellows toured the Sewall-Belmont House, a museum that tells the story of the women’s suffrage movement in America, to highlight the struggle women endured in the U.S. and identify relevant correlations. Everyone was struck (and shocked) by the fact that women did not receive the right to vote in the U.S. until 1920. Many of us take for granted this right that many courageous women fought for and enduring horrendous treatment to earn. 
Women in Egypt, like the women in the Fellowship class, have successfully contested for their rights as well. And, one thing I have learned from the Fellows is that Egyptian women are strong. The Fellows have repeatedly expressed that women in Egypt have opportunities to participate in all aspects of society. They have also reminded me that women are not the only ones struggling during this time, but that men endure many difficulties as well. The Fellows desire to not only use their new skills to better the lives of Egyptian women, but of all Egyptians. This post was written by Charity Wallace, Director of the Women’s Initiative at the George W. Bush Institute. << Return to the Women’s Initiative Fellowship Program
