In last month’s newsletter I interviewed Carolyn Martin about her experiences with AAUW in 1972-73 during her time as branch president.  I thought it would be interesting to ask her to tell us about what our branch was like in that time period.  Her answers were amazing.

In 1972-73, AAUW Sacramento had 1200 member and was the largest branch in the country.  It was the only branch in Sacramento at the time.  In order to become a member, an active member of the branch would come to your home and see your degree.  You had to have a 4-year college degree.

There were over 20 interest groups, and a babysitting co-op watched the children while their mothers attended meetings. There were study groups, and the members spoke to the media on their findings.  Some of the topics of study and discussion were  Women in TV (The findings showed that the only women on the nightly news were weather girls) and Gourmet Couples (The group Carolyn and her husband belonged to in 1972 still meets, although it is no longer affiliated with AAUW.)

Social events were huge, with 200 to 300 members in attendance. Like today,  some meetings included special speakers or luncheons prepared by the members.

AAUW’s  focus at that time was environmental policy, and members were active in testifying at board of supervisor meetings and before the state legislature.  Topics of study included land use planning, air quality control and education.  After attending these informative meetings and conducting research, members made public statements on the topics.

At the national level some of the study groups were foreign language study and women’s issues (Women had no credit history at that time. Everything was in the husband’s name.)

At the state level members discussed and debated main legislation, and study guides were produced.  Some of the topics were gun control and nuclear energy.  The interest topics were broader and often led to policy change such as ordinances and state laws.

At the national conferences voting was weighted, so with 1200 members Sacramento had 250 votes.  When they spoke, it was important.

I asked Carolyn why she dropped out of AAUW, and her answer was she wanted to concentrate her efforts on the Lung Association and the state tobacco control program.  AAUW shifted its focus from environmental topics to education, and Carolyn’s interests were elsewhere.

I asked why she has returned to AAUW, and she said, “I was attending the Past Presidents Luncheon and was inspired to rejoin and meet my old friends again.”

Be sure to say “hello” to Carolyn at the next meeting and question her about her experiences.  What a life she has lived.