#United States #New York City #Women Empowerment #Dress for Success #Gloria Steinem

The 2026 Women Who Inspire Luncheon: A Celebration of Gloria Steinem

On September 30, 2026, the renowned organization Dress for Success® Worldwide will host its annual Women Who Inspire Luncheon at Tribeca Rooftop in New York City. This event promises to be a powerful gathering of leaders from various sectors, including business, media, and culture, all coming together to support women's economic mobility.

Theme and Celebration

The theme for this year's luncheon is "Rise Together", emphasizing the collaborative effort needed to foster progress. It’s a celebration of the women who inspire change and uplift others, a collective movement to break barriers and create opportunities for women worldwide. This luncheon not only acknowledges remarkable individuals but also reinforces the interconnectedness of efforts that drive meaningful change in the community.

A special highlight of this year’s event will be a tribute to the legendary feminist icon, Gloria Steinem. An activist, writer, and global advocate, Steinem has been a pivotal figure in the fight for women's rights for decades. Her leadership and advocacy have inspired countless individuals to raise their voices and challenge systemic inequalities. A conversation featuring renowned actress Julianna Margulies and influential producer Amy Richards will honor Steinem's extraordinary life and legacy. They will reflect on her recent book, An Unexpected Life, capturing her impactful journey and timeless contributions.

Recognizing Impact and Partnership

Joanie Bily, CEO of Dress for Success Worldwide, expressed her admiration for Steinem, stating, “Her courage, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to advancing opportunity for women and girls have created lasting change globally.” Celebrating Steinem’s contributions aligns with Dress for Success’s mission to empower women to achieve greater economic mobility through skills development and community support.

Additionally, the luncheon will recognize several organizations and partners that are champions of equity and advocates for women's advancement. Collaborating with various sponsors—including ARM & HAMMER™, Benefit Cosmetics, and GEICO Philanthropic Foundation—this event aims to gather resources needed to provide vital programs focused on career development and workforce readiness.

The Broader Mission

Dress for Success Worldwide is committed to a mission of empowering women by providing a global network of support and services. Founded in 1997, the organization has a vision of creating a world where every woman can thrive in both work and life. Their initiatives include career reskilling, financial education, and promotions for women-owned businesses, aiming to reach two million women globally by 2030.

Proceeds from the Women Who Inspire Luncheon will help sustain career development programs and services, allowing Dress for Success to expand its reach and impact. The organization currently has 129 network members in 17 countries, supporting over 1.5 million women worldwide.

Final Thoughts

The Women Who Inspire Luncheon exemplifies how collective action can create pathways for women to achieve their ambitions. As we look forward to the celebration on September 30, 2026, we remember the importance of standing together, lifting each other up, and continuing to inspire future generations. By celebrating icons like Gloria Steinem, we remind ourselves of the visionaries who paved the way and the responsibility we all share in fostering change for women everywhere. For those interested in supporting or learning more about Dress for Success Worldwide, further information can be found at DressforSuccess.org.