Women in Diplomacy – Esther Hymer’s Legacy

Esther Wanner Hymer (1898–2001) was a pioneering figure in international diplomacy and women's rights advocacy. As a representative of the International Federation of Business and Professional Women (IFBPW) at the United Nations, she played a crucial role in promoting gender equality on a global scale. (nfbpwc.org)

Hymer's activism began early; as a student at the University of Wisconsin in 1920, she marched for the ratification of the 19th Amendment, which granted women the right to vote. Her commitment to peace and women's rights led her to become an aide to Margaret Hickey, who represented the National Federation of Business and Professional Women’s Clubs (NFBPWC) at the 1945 San Francisco conference that established the United Nations.

Hymer served as the Director of International Relations for IFBPW and was its nongovernmental representative to the UN for six decades, focusing on women's issues. She was instrumental in the formation of the UN Commission on the Status of Hymer's legacy continues to inspire generations of women leaders and advocates for gender equality worldwide. Sylvia G. Perry and Livia M. Ricci published a book, Esther Hymer: A Bus to 42nd Street, in 1999 that details more about her efforts and experience as a diplomat representing BPW at the United Nations. NGO CSW/NY has also published a digitally accessible PDF that has more details about Hymer’s work with that organization and the United Nations: https://ngocsw.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/FINAL-HISTORY-PROJECT- 2-compressed.pdf. Both highly recommended reads for BPW members from around the world and at all walks of life.

Sources for reference:

• https://ngocsw.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/FINAL-HISTORY-PROJECT-2-compressed.pdfhttps://www.abebooks.com/first-edition/Esther-W-Hymer-Bus-42nd-Street/31209849305/bd
• https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-2001-jun-01-me-5152-story.htmlwww.nfbpwc.org
• www.bpw-international.org

Please continue to reach out to me personally or professionally as we continue our work to make NFBPWC a better organization,

because together we are stronger.

Best Personal Wishes,

Megan Shellman-Rickard
Immediate Past National President
immpastpresident@nfbpwc.org