POWER IN PLACE
Portraits Of politicians
Power in Place seeks to celebrate elected officials who are women and gender minorities that have risen to positions of political leadership and made positive change in America. From small towns to larger cities and states, women, trans, and non-binary folks are engaging in politics more than ever before. As of 2023, woman politicians hold 28.7% of Congressional seats, 31% of statewide elective executive offices, and 32.7% of state legislature positions compared to 16.8%, 22.1%, and 23.7%, respectively, in 2011*. Together, they help our government grow closer to the crucial duty of truly representing their constituents, bringing with them viewpoints and concerns that reflect their unique life experiences. In short, the face of politics is changing in the United States, and Power in Place aims to spotlight the remarkable people who are at the forefront of that change.
* Source: Center for American Women and Politics at Rutgers University
SETTINGS THAT TELL A STORY
These portraits are taken in special settings chosen by our subjects themselves. Each photograph contains a story within the frame -- a personal context, an extension of history. These places are locations of inspiration, peace, strength, grounding, and creativity. Accompanying each portrait is the story of the chosen location, told in the politician's own words. These stories often provide key insights into the development of these individuals toward a political consciousness and the desire to make a positive change in society.
THE future of politics
Our interns ask each politician we interview to nominate a young woman that inspires them and shows great leadership potential. These nominees participate in interviewing the politician who nominated them and are also photographed and interviewed in their own place of special meaning. We believe that the relationship between generations is crucial in inspiring political action, and we hope that highlighting a new generation of leaders helps empower other young women. We also empower our summer collaborators, the PiP-sters, by hosting accomplished politicians and activists as speakers who share their expertise and experience.
THE GOAL
This project aims to increase the participation of women in public office by giving young women inspirational role models. Our long-term objective is to increase the exposure of younger generations of women and gender minorities to the possibility of a political career. We believe that images are the most powerful way to convey this opportunity to the teenagers of today who will be tomorrow’s mayors, congresswomen, and presidents.