About WILDR

Women in Leadership for Diverse Representation

Mujeres en Liderazgo para la Representación Diversa

WILDR is a group of women living in Santa Cruz County who have come together to support and encourage diverse women to serve in public office and leadership positions. We do this through providing forums for training, education, and networking; developing and sharing tools, and sharing resources.

Mission

WILDR is committed to realizing more diverse representation by women in public service and leadership positions in Santa Cruz County. We support progressive women who reflect the communities they serve through training, networking, and leadership development.

Our vision is a democracy where elected officials and other leaders reflect the
population, serving in roles that uplift all people in equity and justice.

Vision

WILDR participants support and work to uphold:

racial and gender equity,
reproductive justice,
lifespan education funding,
voter access,
housing justice, and
equitable and shared economy for all.

Values

WILDR works to create the conditions for women with aligned values to enter and be supported in leadership roles, with a focus on elected and appointed positions in government. WILDR engages people that align with our core values, regardless of party. WILDR does not support specific candidates through endorsements or campaign funding.

Women's Political Leadership Circle:

The Women’s Political Leadership Circle brings together a small group of diverse candidates to learn about running a campaign for public office, share struggles and successes, and develop a support network. The Circle is led by trained facilitators in order to provide safety, confidentiality, and a high quality experience.

Circles meet regularly in-person and/or over Zoom.

Interested in learning more? Complete our short Application and we will reach out!

Information Sharing:

WILDR shares current information and resources via WILDR’s website, social media messaging and forums. WILDR provides links and resources so that women of diverse perspectives and backgrounds can easily find information to be or become impactful leaders in the broader Santa Cruz community.

Check out the form at the bottom of the page to join our email list to stay up to date with WILDR!

WILDR's Timeline

2021

WILDR is founded by Dorian Seamster after a conversation with her friend Christina Cuevas about the struggles diverse women leaders face when running for public office and joining government advisory bodies.

2021

Main group gets together

2021

WILDR begins hosting their Women's Political Circles, led by Bobbie Celeste.

2023

Steadily, new interns join WILDR in partnership with UCSC

2024

Founder, Dorian, steps down - new co-chairs Erica and Stephanie

2025

WILDR continues to grow and adapt to best serve Santa Cruz County