For the second year in a row, we gathered friends and clients together for an intimate discussion in celebration of Women’s History Month.

Located in downtown Portland’s Abigail Hall, a rumored gathering spot for local suffragettes, we covered everything from conflict resolution strategies to women’s health issues (and why topics like menopause shouldn’t be taboo anymore) and everything in between. When our conversation wrapped, we were left with a unique art piece from local artist, Jessica Rose, who joined us live to capture the essence of our dialogue to produce an authentic, visual record of the collective wisdom that was shared.

One thing became clear — creating intentional spaces for women to come together and swap experiences about work and beyond is crucial to safeguarding the progress women have worked so hard to achieve for the next generation.

Professional trailblazers, mothers, and more, women hold a variety of identities, and we discussed the importance of honoring them all, including the intersection with race and gender expression. One guest noted they hired a trainer at their company to explain what it really looks like to embrace pronouns beyond adding it to your email signature. After setting policies in place, the group discussed the need to give people an opportunity to learn the details, so they truly understand a call-to-action inside and out.

In addition to individual mentorship—one of the most powerful tools for women in the workplace—we went over how impactful it could be to form small groups within your organization so that women develop pillars of support and learn best practices on advocating for themselves and communicating their needs, even at the most junior level. And how can traditional mentorship be taken up a notch? One attendee suggested looking beyond your inner circle and those you already mentor (or receive mentorship from)—do any women around you appear to be struggling? Can you model the way when something doesn’t feel right? Does a conflict you’re involved in call for more empathy, or is it time to find more of a balance and double down on reaffirming expectations? Keep in mind, professional communication styles and strategies are ever evolving in a hybrid environment and having groups to bounce ideas off is key to navigating it all.

While conflicts aren’t easy and there isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution to anything, Employment Lawyer Kelly Riggs said it can be a game-changer to have someone in your corner that you know you can call at 3 AM in a panic, while offering the same to someone else in return.

Looking for practical, passionate advice from a local legend who carved her path as a pioneer in the Oregon wine industry? One attendee suggested Gracious and Ruthless by Susan Sokol Blosser, where you’ll learn her tips for finding business success while staying true to your values.

Until next time!