As Utah approaches the end of the year and the inevitable "Best Of" lists begin to circulate, there is an undeniable statistic that cannot be overlooked: the state consistently ranks last in the nation for women's equality. This includes crucial areas such as economic opportunity and political representation. These disparities resonate throughout various communities across the state, including in Summit County, where the call for action is growing louder. Despite longstanding research indicating that women’s leadership leads to enhanced collaboration and improved outcomes in community decision-making, women remain underrepresented in positions of power. The issue is not about displacing qualified men, but rather about ensuring that all perspectives and talents are included in the decision-making process. This is particularly important in a state that has historically struggled with gender equality in leadership roles. The Utah Women & Leadership Project has recently introduced the "A Bolder Way Forward" initiative, aimed at improving outcomes for women and families over the next seven years. This statewide effort seeks to address the systemic issues that have led to Utah's low rankings in women’s participation in politics and the workplace. Summit County has taken commendable steps to support this initiative by establishing a local coalition that focuses on critical issues such as child care, domestic violence, entrepreneurship, and political representation. The formation of this coalition highlights a communal recognition of the need for enhanced support systems for women in the region. One of the critical messages that surfaced during a recent local forum was the observation that women are significantly more likely to run for office when they are encouraged to do so. This revelation has prompted local advocates to take a proactive approach in reaching out to the women of Summit County. In a direct appeal to women who are already leading businesses, nonprofits, families, and volunteer organizations, advocates are asking: "Will you consider running for office?" The urgency of this question is underscored by the upcoming elections, with several county and state seats available in 2026. The filing deadline for interested candidates is January 8, 2026. Additionally, there is an immediate opportunity for Park City residents, as a vacant seat on the Park City Council will be filled through appointment in January, with applications due by January 5, 2026. The prospect of running for office may seem daunting, especially for those who have never considered it before. However, support and resources are available for those interested in taking the leap. Local organizations and mentors with firsthand experience in public office are ready to assist potential candidates in navigating the complexities of a political campaign. Interested individuals can reach out via email to the Pro-Active Alliance at theproactivealliance@gmail.com for guidance and mentorship. Moreover, it is essential for the Park City Council and local voters to not only assess the qualifications of individual candidates but also to consider the overall balance within the governing bodies. A diverse representation can lead to better governance and decision-making that reflects the needs and values of the community. The call for more women in leadership roles is not merely a request; it is a recognition of the wealth of talent that exists within the community and the potential for more equitable governance. If Summit County is to genuinely commit to the ideals of inclusion and progress, it is crucial that its leadership mirrors its diverse population. The time for women to step forward and claim their rightful place in political leadership is now. The call to action is clear: the community is looking for leaders who can bring fresh perspectives and drive change. As the new year approaches, the opportunity for women in Summit County to engage in political leadership and representation presents a vital chance to shape the future of the community. With the collective support of local organizations, mentors, and the community at large, the hope is that more women will answer the call and step into roles that will help to redefine the political landscape of Utah. In conclusion, the path to greater representation and equality may seem long, but with initiatives like A Bolder Way Forward and the support of local coalitions, the journey toward a more equitable future for women in Utah is underway. The chance for women to make their voices heard is not just an opportunity; it is a necessity for the betterment of all communities in Summit County and beyond.