September 1, 2023
September News
Hello all, and happy September.
This month was another blockbuster, and we are so grateful for all of your ongoing support.
First, on August 4th, we submitted our petition to Department of Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, President Joe Biden, and National Highway Traffic Safety Administrator Ann Carlson. With the help of Change.org, we were able to send our petition directly to their offices with over 18,000 signatures. But we’re not stopping there – we now have over 25,000 signatures. Why’d we deliver our petition on August 4th? Because, one month later on September 4th, NHTSA’s “comprehensive plan” is due. This plan, as mandated by the Government Accountability Office, must address the fatal gender disparity in car safety... so they say. Keep an eye on our channels for updates on the day, and check out submission video here.
Second, we hosted an incredible installment of Let’s Talk, this time with Gen Z for Change Founder and Forbes 30 Under 30 recipient, Aidan Kohn-Murphy. It was such a pleasure to speak with him about how he’s grown his organization, how young people can get involved in politics without burning out, and how to grow your community of advocates and friends. IMHO, worth a watch. Check it out here.
Third, the people were talking! This month, we had three articles come out about our organization. First, I wrote a piece for Ms. Magazine, entitled Lack of Gender Diversity in Crash Safety Testing Is Fatal for Women. Second, our first funder, The Pollination Project, chose to highlight Drive as the Changemaker of the Week. Lastly, Columbia Alumni Magazine wrote on the efforts of Hana Schank, Marco Balestri, and myself, in this movement here.
A final note – on September 5th, I start a new job (yay!), working in a Senator’s office on the Hill. Thankfully, my work with Drive will not be impacted, and I will remain on as President. I am so proud and grateful for the work we have done together, and I can’t wait to see what comes next. More soon.
Warmly,
Maria