What began as a call for 1,000 Women for Alsobrooks became something far larger. More than1,500 women answered the invitation to support Maryland Senator Angela Alsobrooks, a turnout organizers described as both historic and deeply symbolic. Held on International Women’s Day March 8th, the gathering underscored the growing visibility and influence of women in public leadership, as well as the expanding network of support behind Alsobrooks as she continues her work in the U.S. Senate.
Women traveled from across the country to attend, though many participants were Maryland-based. The diverse crowd represented multiple generations, professions, and communities, unified by a shared commitment to women’s leadership and health advocacy.
Among the notable attendees were several prominent figures in politics, philanthropy, and entertainment. Cora Masters Barry, educator, activist, and widow of former Washington, D.C. Mayor Marion Barry, joined the event, along with strategist Jotaka Eaddy, business leader Necole Parker, and Wanda Durant, known nationally as the mother of NBA star Kevin Durant and a respected advocate in her own right. Former Baltimore Mayor Kurt Schmoke was recognized as a table sponsor, though he was unable to attend in person.
In attendance were several Maryland officials, including Baltimore County State’s Attorney Scott Shellenberger and Councilman Julian Jones, who represents the district where Martin’s West is located. Councilman Jones, who attended with his wife Sabrina, emphasized the importance of civic engagement and health advocacy. “As the sitting Maryland Senator whom I supported in the past, it is imperative for leaders in the county to show up to continue to learn issues to empower Black women’s health,” he said.
The event’s special guest of honor was Academy Award-winning actress Lupita Nyong’o, celebrated for her roles in Black Panther and 12 Years a Slave. Nyong’o spoke candidly about her personal journey with uterine fibroids, a condition that disproportionately affects Black women, emphasizing the importance of early detection, awareness, and advocacy.
Her message resonated deeply. Research shows that African American women experience a significantly higher burden of fibroids, including a threefold increased age-adjusted incidence rate and a threefold increased relative risk, even when accounting for other factors. Nyong’o’s remarks highlighted the urgency of addressing women’s health disparities and expanding access to screening and treatment.
Senator Alsobrooks echoed these concerns, referencing her introduction of S.2531, legislation aimed at improving women’s health outcomes and expanding research and resources related to conditions such as fibroids. She encouraged women to get tested early, underscoring the broader message that who holds public office matters and that Black women’s health deserves sustained attention and investment.
For many attendees, the event represented more than a political gathering. It was a moment of solidarity, visibility, and collective purpose. The turnout, which far exceeded expectations, was seen as a reflection of Alsobrooks’ growing credibility and the significance of her role as the first Black woman to represent Maryland in the U.S. Senate.
On a day dedicated to honoring women’s achievements and advancing gender equity, the gathering served as a reminder of the power of collective action and the momentum building around women’s leadership in Maryland and beyond.