State Department of Health Celebrates Task Force for Women's Initiatives 40th Anniversary

Task Force Addresses Critical Aspects of Women's Lives Including Health, Family and Work

ALBANY, N.Y. (October 10, 2024) - The New York State Department of Health recognizes the 40^th anniversary of the Department's Task Force for Women's Initiatives, a program whose primary focus is to advise leadership on issues concerning women and to promote the interests and perspectives of women across the agency.

"For four decades, the Task Force for Women's Initiatives has remained steadfast in its commitment to advancing the wellbeing of women in this state," State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said. "The task force is a vital part of the State Health Department, and I wish it another successful 40 years of addressing the many critical aspects of women's lives, including health, family and work."

In 1984, New York Governor Mario M. Cuomo issued Executive Order No. 5, a pivotal directive that would significantly impact women's lives in New York State. This order established the Women's Division within the Executive Chamber, later becoming theTask Force for Women's Initiatives in the Department of Health.

"Over the last 40 years, the Task Force for Women's Initiatives has taken intentional steps to ensure equity, inclusion, and professional development of women across the Department of Health," Executive Deputy Commissioner Johanne Morne said. "We honor and congratulate the Task Force for Women's Initiatives for the amazing work they have accomplished and continue to do."

Created to address the many critical aspects of women's lives, the Task Force is a central resource within the Department of Health, providing valuable information and advice about departmental programs and initiatives.

Over the years, the Task Force has developed and implemented programming such as Take Your Future to Work Day, the Department's Mentoring Program, Workforce Team Challenge and various lunch-and-learn sessions. The Task Force has authored white papers, contributed to Administrative Policy and Procedures Manuals, created resource documents, informed and successfully advocated for lactation resources, pay equity and much more. These programs cover several topics that include reproductive health, mental well-being and ensuring that women have accurate information, resources and safe spaces.

The Task Force also fosters networking opportunities for women within the Department of Health workforce. It encourages professional growth and knowledge sharing through workshops, conferences, and collaborative events.

By championing causes for cis and transgender women throughout the Department of Health and New York State, the Task Force has played a crucial role in promoting gender equality and empowering women. It also actively supports career advancement, leadership development, and equal opportunities for women in the workplace.

The Department congratulates the Task Force for Women's Initiatives for its phenomenal work and the incredible impact it has made on the lives of women across New York State for the past 40 years.