IGNITE's Blog

Dear friend, 

It’s hard to believe that it has been just over a year since I first started as IGNITE’s CEO. I feel incredibly lucky to have marked this milestone alongside hundreds of passionate young women in Washington, D.C. for our first 3-day, in-person Young Women Run national conference since 2019. For so many reasons, this conference looked and felt different than its predecessors, from the daily Covid-19 testing and masking, to the barricades around the Supreme Court and U.S. Capitol as a result of protests erupting across the city.

Political representation is crucial to success, and America has been making strides towards gender parity. But did you know that the U.S. ranks 72 in the world for women’s representation in politics? Yes, 72. The U.S. is currently tied with the Dominican Republic. On the flip side, Rwanda sits at the number one spot, followed by Cuba and Nicaragua. 

Many young Black women are using their voices to create change across the country, but their stories often go untold. Let’s celebrate these young leaders, today and every day. Keep reading to learn more about some of the young Black women who are making history. 

You have the power to make a difference in your community. While it doesn’t always seem that way, your voice really does count. Don’t believe us? Keep reading to discover how you can turn up the volume to make sure that your voice is heard. 

Sometimes, we all need a reminder of just how powerful we are. Check out these 22 quotes from a few of our favorite characters and celebrities to help you own 2022. 

This holiday season, give the gift of political power! Check out some of the many IGNITE gifts you can give others (or give to yourself) so that they can rock their political power in style. A portion of every sale goes to IGNITE programs.

You did it! Finals week is over, your exams are completed and now it’s time to take a well-deserved break. We’re here to help you do some self-care as you unwind from classes after a jam-packed semester.. Keep reading to see how you can destress now that your semester is over.

November is Native American Heritage Month, which started as a week-long celebration in 1986 and evolved into a month-long celebration. Indigenous peoples have a long history, rich culture and stories to tell that often go unheard. We’ve put together a book list that shares some of those stories, traditions and experiences of North America’s native populations. 

Without using the internet, write down the name of three Native Americans talked about in your history classes and how they helped shape history. Was that easy? Now, name at least two influential Native American women who helped shape history. A little bit harder? Probably. Read along to learn more about the importance of a few  unsung women.