"Being a woman means being strong. Girls face things both genetically and socially working against them everyday, but the women are the ones who overcome them to lead successful and happy lives. Women are powerful, and when they come together they are a force to be reckoned with . I don't have as much background knowledge as I am just entering the world of women myself, but I've seen many great examples that I strive to be like, such as my mother. I believe that's another important quality that defines a woman, being able to use their powers for good reasons , like being a positive role model. A quality about myself that I'm proud of is my positivity because it drives me to want to spread joy and happiness to the people around me. I am known for my leadership because I use my positivity to coordinate and organize social events to keep my friends together, almost like glue. It's one of my favorite qualities about myself as well because it makes me feel good to make my friends feel welcomed and appreciated. As I get older and start becoming more of a role model, I hope to spread that quality of using leadership in a positive way to future women to come."
Piper Fujita (left)
Age: 18
Occupation: High school student
"Today, the day of this photo session, my daughter Piper turned 18. I can't imagine a day more perfect to ponder the topic of what it means to be a woman. Particularly in the year 2018, under this government. I do worry for her , and for all up and coming young women. While our country is distracted by the antics of the White House, basic rights my generation probably took for granted are slowly being chipped away. What advice would I give to other women? Support each other. Empathize with each other. Disagree, sure . . . but don't alienate each other. There is a basic, common center of a woman that is universal. We can't ever forget that. Ever. No matter what our individual political point of view. Because while we bicker amongst ourselves, we are allowing this country to step backwards to a seemingly forgotten time where we couldn't make our own health decision, where being paid less fir the same job was the norm, when our voice was quieter. . . I brought one prop with me today. A photo of my amazing daughters. Hands down, these young women ( along with countless other honorary daughters) are my GREATEST PRIDE! They think for themselves. they understand the BIGGER picture. They involve themselves. They are not afraid to use their voices. My greatest accomplishment in life is that I was honored to play some small role in who they are today. A single word to describe me? That's a tough one. . . maybe at this stage in my life, I would have to say hopeful. For the future of my girls, for the future of this country, for the future of this world."
Lori Fujita (right)
Age: Unknown
Occupation: Unknown