Laura Kelly and Kansas women are ready to lead Kansas

When I first thought about running for statewide office, I found a million excuses not to do it. I had a full-time job, three young daughters at home, and I was still settling into my role on the Manhattan-Ogden School Board.

I didn’t realize I needed to get involved until I had a conversation with my daughter. “You always encourage me to step up and lead, why don’t you do the same?” she asked me.

How could I urge my daughters to take on leadership opportunities when I wasn’t willing to do that? So, I got into the race. Josh Svaty and I didn’t win the Democratic gubernatorial primary, but the experience was something I will always cherish.

And because I did get involved, I was introduced to a fierce advocate for women and families, state Sen. Laura Kelly. She reminds me of many of the officers I served with in the Army — strong, steady and experienced. I know she’s the right woman to lead Kansas.

I’ve heard Laura say so many times that it is critical for women to be at the table when decisions are made that impact our lives and the lives of our families — whether the issue is health care, schools, jobs or the economy. I couldn’t agree more. Who thinks these decisions should be made by a room full of men? That’s why I’m so inspired by what is happening this year.

There has been a huge surge of women running for office at every level of our government, from city council to school board to the statehouse to the White House. And because of these women, our country, our state and our families will be better off.

I want my three daughters to grow up in a country where it’s not unusual to have a woman in the state’s highest office — or any other public office. But so far in our country’s history, only 39 women have ever served as governor of their home state. I should point out that two of those women were elected right here in Kansas.

This year, all that could change. Twice as many women are running for governor this year than any other year in our history. By working together, we can make sure Laura helps that number grow.

Following the primary election in August, I was honored to be asked by Laura to chair a group called Lead Kansas. Our focus is to engage women in the political process and make sure our voices are part of the conversation. The response has been amazing. So many women who have never been involved are getting involved. Knocking doors. Making calls. Supporting other women.

Lead Kansas was created to encourage women to get active and make a difference for their family, community, and state. You can sign up through www.laurakellyforkansas.com to get connected with volunteer opportunities or events. There have been events in Lawrence and Manhattan, with upcoming events in Kansas City, Wichita and Topeka.

I challenge each and every one of you to make your voice heard this November. Sign up to volunteer or just get out and talk to your friends and family about what’s at stake in this election. And most importantly, join me in voting for Laura Kelly for governor on Nov. 6.

Don’t leave it to chance. If we all work hard, 2018 can indeed be the year of the woman.

Katrina Lewison is a businesswoman, Manhattan-Ogden Board of Education member, former candidate for lieutenant governor, former Blackhawk helicopter pilot, wife and mother.

This story was originally published October 23, 2018 at 5:24 PM.