Women’s History Month is a celebration of women’s contributions to history, culture and society and has been observed annually in the month of March in the United States since 1987. The 2025 theme, “Moving Forward Together,” celebrates “Women Educating and Inspiring Generations.” This theme celebrates the collective strength, equality, and influence of women who have dedicated their lives to education, mentorship, and leadership, shaping the minds and futures of all generations.
Assemblywoman Anamarie Avila Farias nominated our CEO, Gigi R. Crowder, L.E., for “California Woman of the Year” for Assembly District 15 in early March. She also honored our CEO, Gigi R. Crowder, L.E. as a “California Woman of the Year” for Assemby District 15! On March 10, 2025, Gigi and Assemblywoman Anamarie Avila Farias reported to Assembly floor for Women’s History Month Resolution and ‘Woman of the Year’ floor ceremony in Sacramento. Congratulations, Gigi!
About California Woman of the Year
From California Legislative Women’s Caucus:
The Woman of the Year event was founded in 1987 by Assemblywoman Bev Hansen (R) and Assemblywoman Sally Tanner (D), who noticed that the California Legislature had no events planned for the month of March, Women’s History Month. In celebration of the contributions to society made by remarkable women throughout California, Hansen and Tanner arranged to invite one woman from each Senate and Assembly district to come to the Capitol and be honored for their accomplishments. The women were to be recognized as Woman of the Year in a formal ceremony on the floors of the Senate and Assembly. This yearly event, sponsored and organized by the Women’s Caucus, is greatly anticipated by all Legislators today.
Gigi’s Accomplishments
Gigi Crowder has elevated the African American Uplift program over the last several years and helped establish the Contra Costa County’s African American Holistic Wellness and Resource Hub. In addition, she has led the African American outreach efforts at NAMI CC, helping people through culturally responsive peer specialist support through the criminal justice system and promoting growing and healing for men of color through workshops. Gigi has also spearheaded interfaith trainings aimed at providing faith congregations the tools needed to build Mental Health Friendly Communities. She is undoubtedly the most deserving of this award and is indeed a remarkable icon.
Gigi has also been a champion in advocating for other marginalized communities’ needs, including Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) and Latino/Latinx, and we are grateful for her passion and leadership at NAMI Contra Costa.
