MSCSW

The State of Mississippi Commission on the Status of Women was created in 2001 by the Mississippi Legislature under House Bill 797. Four commissioners were appointed by the Governor. Three commissioners each were appointed by the Lieutenant Governor, the Speaker of the House, and the Attorney General. All of the commissioners serve in a voluntary capacity and are active in other groups that studies issues of concern to women.

The vision of the Mississippi Commission on the Status of Women is the improvement of the overall quality of life of women, specifically in the areas of education, health, economics, political participation, and
race relations.

The mission of the Mississippi Commission on the Status of Women is to assess and influence policies and practices that affect women through an inclusive, collaborative process. The Commission serves by administering and supporting; collecting and disseminating information; and recommending policies to public and private groups and persons.

The mission is undergirded by the beliefs that:

All persons regardless of gender should have unobstructed access
to opportunities to realize the quality of life to which they and their families aspire.

No person should be denied the opportunity to succeed and make positive contributions to society.

Conduct research and study issues affecting the status of women;

Advise and consult with the executive and legislative branches of government;

Publish periodic reports documenting the status and concerns of women;

Act as an information center on the status of women;

Serve as a liaison between government, private interest groups, and the general public regarding the status of women;

Recommend policies and make recommendations to public and private goups and persons concerned with any issue related to improving the status of women;

Promote consideration of qualified women for all levels of government positions; and

Report annually to the Governor and the Legislaure on the Commission's activities and findings.