Dear District 20 Zontians,

I am honored to be attending the District 20 conference as your Zonta International Liaison.  Governor Merja is a fierce advocate for building the best world for women and girls and advises me that you are all equally enthusiastic.  Your passion and Zonta Spirit are invaluable in furthering our efforts to advance women’s rights as human rights.  The enthusiasm and collaboration of District 20 members are also essential in achieving Zonta’s goals and making a meaningful impact on gender equality.

It is inspiring to see the collective efforts of District 20 members advocating for gender equality and building a better world for women and girls by addressing digital harassment and child marriage and working together with like-minded organizations, such as Soroptimist International Finland. Being a leading advocate for women’s rights in Finland and Estonia is instrumental in achieving Zonta’s goals. By aligning with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goal No. 5, we aim to create a world where every woman and girl can realize their full potential, free from fear of violence. Your clubs understand this goal and are achieving fantastic results.

This Conference provides an excellent opportunity for important elections, discussions, and education, while fostering a spirit of camaraderie and friendship among attendees.  As we engage in these activities, let us remember the values and principles that drive our mission and vision.  Let us carry the Zonta Spirit within us throughout the remainder to the biennium, demonstrating our relentless pursuit of equality and justice.

I truly appreciate your dedication, devotion, and passion for the Zonta mission and vision. As we engage in this fight for women and girls around the world, let us heed the wisdom of U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg and strive to inspire others to join our cause. Together, we can make a profound impact by building a better world where equality becomes a reality for all women and girls.

Warmest regards,

Renée Coppock

Renée Coppock
Zonta International Director

Lataa kirje D 20 conference letter Renee Coppock

Reneé Coppock
Director
Zonta Club of Billings, USA, District 12
Motto: Real change, enduring change, happens one step at a time. Let’s take these steps together to change the world.

Since joining Zonta in 1996, Reneé has served on multiple international committees and task forces as a member and chairman and has been a governor, lieutenant governor and area director. While most known for her work in bylaws and resolutions, Reneé has increased advocacy within her district by focusing on topics such as human trafficking, inherent bias, indigenous women, the #MeToo movement and the 16 Days of Activism.

Reneé is a senior attorney and her legal background has enabled her to have a full understanding of governing documents, develop conflict resolution skills, sharpen strategic thinking, and adhere to high ethical standards and fiduciary responsibility, among many other honed skills. Her involvement in a diversity committee has broadened her knowledge of issues impacting minorities and women in the workplace.

Reneé feels that members must be enthusiastic about international service/advocacy as impassioned people join and remain in organizations. By increasing awareness, Zonta’s relevance will be reinforced and confirm that members are truly building a better world for women and girls, thereby strengthening membership.