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Vancouver, WA (April 24, 2020) – Much like the rest of the world, this ever-changing period of uncertainty stemming from the Covid-19 pandemic has prompted the National Women’s Coalition Against Violence & Exploitation (NWCAVE) to adapt to a new normal and consider many difficult decisions for the sake of personal and public safety in these unprecedented times.
NWCAVE recently cancelled their St. Patrick’s Day Social back on March 17th and today announced their Annual Impact Reception slated for June 16th has also been cancelled. One of the bigger decisions announced by the nonprofit, according to NWCAVE’s president and co-founder Michelle Bart, has been to postpone the non-profit organization’s 4th Biennial Women’s Festival from August 1, 2020 to July 31, 2021 at Bethany Vineyard and Winery in Ridgefield, WA. “Change is rarely ever easy, but it is important to all of us at NWCAVE to continue working with state and local leaders in support of the regulations that are in place to keep all of us safe,” said Bart.
NWCAVE’s team of volunteers have been working for more than two years organizing the event that is intended to unite, celebrate and empower people from all walks of life. The Women’s Festival is open to anyone over 21 and will feature inspirational speakers, artisans, local food, and numerous locally and internationally recognized musicians, including two-time Grammy-nominated singer and composer Mary Lambert.
“We are remaining optimistic about this change and will be taking advantage of the extra year we now have to bring everyone a festival that is sure to be entertaining, exciting and impactful,” said Dr. Gloria Arroyo, Festival Chair. “We owe a ton of our optimism to the amazing performers and sponsors of the festival who all have been so supportive of our decision and plan on remaining part of the event.”
Although the date of the Women’s Festival has changed, NWCAVE is working to find a way to still bring people together on August 1, 2020, a day also recognized as National Girlfriends Day. “We are still working out the details but will be sure to keep everyone informed on our Facebook and Instagram pages,” said Arroyo.
NWCAVE is also in the process of issuing refunds to those who have already purchased tickets. “We understand that Covid-19 has created significant financial hardship for many people and we want to be respectful of that,” said Bart. “We owe a huge thanks to our amazing donors, like the Cowlitz Indian Tribal Council, for contributing to our organization and affording us the ability to issue these refunds.”
Tickets for the Women’s Festival for the new date, July 31, 2021, are available for purchase online at www.womensfestivalnw.org. Anyone interested in becoming a vendor or sponsor for the event can also visit the website for more information.
“Even though the decision to postpone the festival to 2021 was difficult, we felt that it was one that had to be made,” said Bart. “Not only are we unable to predict if social distancing regulations will still be in effect come Summer 2021, we really feel that our attention needs to be fixed on what matters most to us right now, and that is the health and safety of our communities and their members, especially those most vulnerable to the threat of violence.”
Since stay-at-home orders have been in place, law enforcement agencies nationwide have seen an increase in domestic violence reports. “Despite the good intentions of the stay-at-home orders, it is important to understand that not every home is a safe environment,” said Bart. “We are doing everything we can to combat this reality because this work truly never stops. That is why the health and safety of our communities has been and will remain our top priority.”
If you or anyone you know is experiencing any form of violence or abuse, NWCAVE can direct you to the appropriate resources. Please visit www.nwcave.org or call 360-852-8019 for more information.
The all-volunteer nonprofit organization is always appreciative of donations, please go to www.nwcave.org/donate to see how you can help them.
Media Contact
National Women’s Coalition Against Violence & Exploitation (NWCAVEs Coalition Against Violence & Exploitation (NWCAVE))
Michelle Bart, President and Co-Founder
Taylor Johnson, Communications Director
(360) 852–8019 ~ info@nwcave.org
