Empowering Women,
Advancing Democracy

For over 80 years, the Independent Women's Organization has championed women’s rights and supported Democratic candidates dedicated to equality and justice in Louisiana. Join us in shaping a fairer future.

Help our runoff candidates take home the win on November 15 - Early Voting starts November 1!

Navigate to the candidates' websites at the links to the right and help get the word out with sign waving, canvassing, phone banking, and more!


Each of these leaders have demonstrated a deep commitment to good government and to building a stronger, more inclusive future for our city, so we encourage you to help them get elected in the runoff!

Man in light button-down shirt and striped tie, arms crossed, smiling.

Darren Lombard

Clerk, Criminal District Court

Website

Holly Friedman

City Council, District A

Website

Aimee McCarron

City Council, District A

Website

State Rep. Jason Hughes

City Council, District E

Website

Help our runoff candidates take home the win on November 15 - Early Voting starts November 1!

Navigate to the candidates' websites at the links to the right and help get the word out with sign waving, canvassing, phone banking, and more!


Each of these leaders have demonstrated a deep commitment to good government and to building a stronger, more inclusive future for our city, so we encourage you to help them get elected in the runoff!

Man in dress shirt and tie with arms crossed, smiling, against a white background.

Darren Lombard

Clerk, Criminal District Court

Website

Holly Friedman

City Council, District A

Website

Aimee McCarron

City Council, District A

Website

State Rep. Jason Hughes

City Council, District E

Website

Help our runoff candidates take home the win
on November 15 - Early Voting starts November 1!

Man in a button-down shirt and tie with arms crossed, smiling.

Darren Lombard

Clerk, Criminal District Court

Website

Holly Friedman

City Council, District A

Website

Aimee McCarron

City Council, District A

Website

State Rep. Jason Hughes

City Council, District E

Website

Navigate to the candidates' websites at the links above, and help get the word out with sign waving, canvassing, phone banking, and more!


Each of these leaders have demonstrated a deep commitment to good government and to building a stronger, more inclusive future for our city, so we encourage you to help them get elected in the runoff!

IWO membership dues announcement.  Accepted November 1. Members must reset payment period November 1- January 31.

Now is the time to start thinking about renewing your membership!

As was agreed upon 3 years ago, IWO converted to a January 1 through December 31 year. As such, the dues payment period for 2026 is November 1, 2025 through January 31, 2026. This applies to all members, including members who are currently on a different 12-month autopay cycle. Members on autopay must reset their payment period if it does not fall within the 11/1 -1/31 period.

Our History of Empowerment


Decades of dedication to women’s equality and democracy

Founded in 1939, the Independent Women’s Organization began as a group of Louisiana women determined to fight government corruption and support reform candidates. Early efforts included registering thousands of voters and challenging poll intimidation. The iconic “March of Brooms” symbolized their mission to clean up city politics. Over the decades, IWO expanded its focus to public education reform and racial integration, becoming a respected voice with rigorous candidate endorsements. After a brief pause following Hurricane Katrina, dedicated members revived IWO, growing it into a diverse, influential group of over 300 women committed to advancing Democratic values and women’s equality in New Orleans.

EVENTS

Advocating for Equality, EmpowermenT, & Community

Our Core Advocacy Issues

The Independent Women’s Organization champions women’s equality by supporting Democratic candidates who prioritize fair representation and policies that uplift Louisiana women and families. We focus on advancing rights in education, healthcare, and economic opportunity to build a stronger, more inclusive community.

Beyond politics, IWO fosters community support through grassroots advocacy, education, and direct engagement with elected officials. Our members work together to ensure women’s voices shape the future of New Orleans and Louisiana at every level of government.

Voices of Change:

Empowered Women, Stronger Communities

"Joining IWO gave me a platform to amplify women’s voices and actively shape policies that matter to our families and future."

Maria Johnson

Community Advocate and IWO Member

Group of people at a table with

Join IWO: Empowering Women, Shaping Louisiana’s Future


Become part of a vibrant community advancing women’s equality and Democratic values.

  • Group of people socializing outside a brick building. Several smiling, one wearing a