On Tuesday, February 13, Her Term celebrated Galentine's Day in an empowering way, hosting two simultaneous events aimed at supporting and uplifting women in government. From an inspiring Capitol tour to a rejuvenating wellness pop-up, the day was filled with camaraderie, inspiration, and sisterhood.
Photographer Allison Fenton (fentonsfaces.com) photographs Rep. Shea Roberts
A Glimpse Inside the Capitol:
Executive Director, Han Pham, with candidates: Cathy Kott, Heather White, Jeanette Robertson (Her Term volunteer therapist), Kenya Wicks, and Adalina-Alejandrina Capuli-Chaskañahui
The day began with a Gold Dome field trip for our candidates, giving them the opportunity to experience firsthand the energy and excitement of the Capitol before assuming office. Her Term led candidates as they navigated the halls of power, meeting legislators and staff and seeing the daily life of elected office in person.
Cathy Kott, a candidate supported by Her Term in partnership with the Fighting 50, beautifully encapsulated the impact of the experience, expressing how it filled her heart to be in communion with fellow women leaders. The tour not only provided practical insights into the workings of the Capitol but also fostered invaluable connections and a sense of belonging.
The Capitol tours are are meant to help eliminate the barriers women often face to assuming office. The idea was hatched by Angelika Kausche, who led our first tour in 2022. When Her Term asked her what we could do to help candidates, she remembered how overwhelming her first days were, and thought a tour of the Capitol would help our candidates. And it did.
Tangible Candidate Support Made Possible by Volunteers Donating their Talents:
Rep. Imani Barnes, photographed by Allison Fenton of Fenton’s Faces
During the Capitol tour, photographer Allison Fenton skillfully captured power portraits of our candidates and elected officials within the Capitol setting. Candidates and electeds filled our slots that day. We wanted to give them a dramatic photo that shows them in their element.
Her Term maximizes candidate support through a broad network of volunteers who bring a vibrant mix of talent and resources to further the cause. In addition to Allison’s generous volunteering that day, we were also grateful for two of our dedicated volunteer therapists Judy Cantwell and Jeanie Robertson, and all-around super volunteer, Sheridan Thomason, who helped design the wellness portion of the day.
Creating a Sanctuary of Wellness:
Her Term Galentine’s Day Wellness Popup at the State Capitol
Following the tour for candidates, Her Term created an afternoon haven for candidates and electeds alike to relax, network, and re-energize before the candidates retired from the Capitol and the electeds returned to a typically busy and important day in session. (In Georgia, the house is only in session for 40 days between January and April.)
Her Term transformed a conference room into a sanctuary of wellness, fulfilling Ruwa Romman's vision of providing a space for relaxation and support amidst the pressures of Capitol life. The wellness pop-up offered a refuge for our elected officials, complete with comforting food, engaging conversations, and therapeutic activities.
In the wake of intense testimonies and legislative debates, our elected officials found solace in the warm and inviting atmosphere, where they could unwind, connect with peers, and replenish their spirits. From therapy sessions to breathing exercises, the pop-up provided essential tools for self-care and resilience in the face of adversity.
Her Term Galentine’s Day Wellness Popup at the State Capitol
A Day of Sisterhood and Support:
As the day unfolded, it became a celebration of sisterhood, uniting women from across the state in a shared mission of empowerment and service. In a show of support and solidarity, the events were not exclusively attended by women; many male colleagues dropped in to offer their support and gratitude for their peers.
Through the Capitol tour and wellness pop-up, Her Term reaffirmed its commitment to supporting women in government and nurturing a community of leaders who uplift and inspire one another.
Rep. Shelly Hutchinson blends Mardi Gras and Galentine’s fun at the photo booth.
Looking Ahead:
Next week is what we call Qualifying Week, and it is when all the candidates will come to the Capitol (or local office) to get their names on the ballot. It takes an enormous effort to get to this day, both for recruiting organizations like Her Term and the candidates. It’s an exciting time and cause for celebration, and the atmosphere (at least on the Democratic side) is buzzing. If you’d like to check it out, come to the State Capitol Monday, March 4th through Thursday, March 7th from 9-4, and Friday, March 8th from 9-12. The best day is Monday.
If you are passionate about supporting women in government, join our cause at herterm.org/join. More than just financial donations, your time and talents can directly support our candidates and create meaningful change in Georgia.