Over 50% of the population will experience menopause, yet it’s a life stage rife with shame, confusion, and a systemic lack of care or history of research investment. On May 2^nd, 2024, Halle Berry stood on the steps of the U.S. Capitol with bipartisan women Members of Congress and shouted, “I’m in menopause, OK?” as they introduced a $275 million federal funding bill to close gaps in NIH funding, doctor training, and public education. In this session, we hear from the leaders in California, Michigan, and Illinois who are leading the charge to ensure women in midlife have access to healthcare and insurance coverage. Governor Whitmer and Assemblymember Bauer-Kahan have championed some of the most progressive menopause bills in the country and Dr. Pauline Maki’s work incorporating menopause education into medical school curriculum is changing the future so doctors can care for women at every life stage. 

Speakers

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer; Dr. Pauline Maki, Director of UIC’s CHARM Center; California State Assemblymember Rebecca Bauer-Kahan

Moderator

Hannah Linkenhoker, WME Senior Policy and Political Advisor