The Clearinghouse on Women’s Issues was established in 1974 by a diverse group of women and organizations to provide a channel for dissemination of information on public policy issues of mutual concern. For over 30 years CWI has remained a wholly volunteer organization with a changing Board of Directors and membership extending beyond the Washington, DC area.

The founders, like the current members, were committed to the core values of feminism and a shared dedication to social change. The high caliber of the speakers at the monthly discussion meetings enabled CWI and its members to contribute to the developing American and international women’s movement.

In 2003, CWI published “Women Networking: Three Decades of the Clearinghouse on Women’s Issues.” It reveals a broad range of meeting topics, although major issues continue to be emphasized in employment, education, health, welfare, civil rights, and the economy. New members will receive an updated copy of the history while supplies last.

The Clearinghouse is a member of the National Council of Women’s Organizations and cooperates with many other groups by signing joint letters to Congress and other officials and by participating in conferences and committees devoted to our issues of concern.