Joyce Watterman: We Need More Women in Leadership Positions

In a heartfelt letter published on November 7, 2024, in the Jersey City Times, Council President and mayoral candidate Joyce Watterman reflects on the ongoing need to elevate women into leadership roles across all sectors—especially in government and education.

Drawing from personal experience and historic moments like the election of Vice President Kamala Harris, Watterman highlights the resilience women must show to overcome systemic biases. She candidly addresses challenges that women face in leadership—such as being ignored until ideas are validated by male counterparts—and calls for solidarity and mutual uplift among women.

"We must continue to break barriers and hold the door open for others," Watterman writes, encouraging a leadership culture built on inclusion, equity, and opportunity.

She also lends her support to other progressive leaders, including Andy Kim for U.S. Senate and Board of Education candidates Matt Schneider and Tia Rezabala, underscoring her commitment to broadening diverse representation in decision-making spaces.

Reflecting on her own journey from Marion Gardens to becoming the first African American woman Council President in Jersey City, Watterman shares her vision for a more inclusive city—one where affordable housing, education reform, and equity are not just goals, but realities.

As she prepares for the 2025 mayoral election, Watterman’s message is clear: real progress requires more women in leadership and a collective commitment to creating environments where every voice is heard and valued.

Source: Jersey City Times – Letter: We Need More Women in Leadership Positions