LOLA OKLAHOMA, OK
GALS & GUNS
LOLA OKC held an event to raise awareness about our chapter’s presence in Oklahoma City. The gathering brought together women interested in liberty ideas, including the Second Amendment, to form a supportive community.
Participants discussed the severe political divide in our area, which often isolates those with independent or libertarian views. The event emphasized the need to create a welcoming environment where women can socialize and discuss shared values of individual rights.
The event successfully highlighted the importance of community and connection among women who value liberty and individual rights, fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment within the LOLA OKC chapter.
LOLA MARACAIBO, VENEZUELA
LOLA EN MARACAIBO: MUJERES EN ESPACIOS DE PODER
LOLA Maracaibo hosted a discussion addressing key issues in our area, particularly the limited representation of women in leadership and political roles. This lack of representation is compounded by the prevalence of radical feminist ideologies that often exclude the perspectives of women who support capitalism and individual liberty. Economic challenges such as limited access to entrepreneurial opportunities and economic independence for women were also discussed. The education system’s lack of a comprehensive curriculum that includes liberal feminist and economic principles was also highlighted as a significant barrier to understanding these crucial topics.
Attendees learned about LOLA, its mission and vision, and the importance of liberty ideas. The guest speaker emphasized the importance of women’s representation in political and leadership roles, arguing that diverse voices in these spaces can drive more inclusive and effective policies.
The event underscored the need for a safe and welcoming environment where women can freely express their ideas and experiences, fostering a stronger, more supportive community and ensuring every attendee feels secure and comfortable.
Overall, the event successfully highlighted the importance of diverse representation, economic independence, and comprehensive education, enlightening and empowering attendees to advocate for these values in their community.
LOLA WASHINGTON D.C.
WOMEN LEADING CHANGE: HOW WE CAN INFLUENCE POLICY
In November 2023, Sofia Hamilton became a trending topic in the D.C. policy-making arena with her impactful op-ed, “Why won’t retailers mail pepper spray to residents of crime-ridden DC?” This piece caught the attention of Council Member Christina Henderson, who swiftly drafted emergency legislation clarifying that pepper spray could be sold and delivered in DC. Thanks to Hamilton’s advocacy, residents can purchase and receive pepper spray in the city.
Sofia shared her story and insights into influencing policy in the nation’s capital at the LOLA DC event, co-hosted by Reason magazine. We discussed the challenges and opportunities for women in DC to make an impact and how self-defense is essential for protecting individual liberty.
Sofia Hamilton, a Policy Analyst at Americans for Prosperity, focuses on healthcare at the state and federal levels. She is also a Social Mobility Fellow at Young Voices, where she writes on housing, harm reduction, and criminal justice reform. Previously, she was a Research Associate at the Cato Institute, studying policy issues related to drugs, poverty, and women’s health.
Attendees had the opportunity to engage with Sofia, drawing inspiration from her experiences and learning how to raise their voices to protect individual freedom and impact policy. The event highlighted the power of advocacy and the importance of women actively participating in policy-making to drive meaningful change.
LOLA RIO DE JANEIRO
PICNIC FOR FREEDOM
LOLA Rio de Janeiro held an event whose primary focus was identifying and discussing each participant’s strengths and weaknesses. The dialogue centered on improving and organizing these aspects in daily life, emphasizing the fight for female freedom.
In honor of Mother’s Day, the event featured a picnic, during which attendees discussed the importance of women’s autonomy and freedom in society. This setting provided a relaxed atmosphere for meaningful conversations about enhancing women’s roles and independence.
The event successfully highlighted the significance of understanding personal strengths and weaknesses and the crucial role of women’s autonomy in fostering a free and empowered society.
LOLA CONNECTICUT
SUMMER KICKOFF
LOLA Connecticut held its first chapter meeting, a fun and engaging introduction to the basics of the Libertarian perspective. The discussion highlighted the inefficiencies of government actions and how these often give big businesses an unfair advantage. This issue is evident in Connecticut, where housing developers can change laws and rules to build wherever they want.
Key topics included education, taxes, and housing development, with participants sharing insights on how government interventions impact these areas. The meeting provided a great opportunity for members to connect, learn, and discuss important issues affecting their community.
The event successfully set the foundation for future discussions and activities, fostering a sense of community and shared values among attendees.
LOLA LISBON, PORTUGAL
REGINA GEORGE AND THE NARRATIVE MODEL IN POLITICAL DISCOURSE
LOLA Lisbon hosted an enlightening event on political communication and its importance. Our guest speaker, LOLA Israel Leader Anna Shnaidman, shared her expertise on how political speech can persuade people and influence their interests.
Anna discussed the techniques and strategies used in political communication to convey messages and garner support effectively. The event provided valuable insights into the power of political speech and its impact on public opinion.
The discussion emphasized the importance of understanding and utilizing political communication to advocate for liberty and individual rights. Attendees left with a deeper appreciation of the role of effective communication in advancing their cause.
LOLA MEDELLIN, COLOMBIA
CLUB DE LECTURA EN ESPAÑOL
LOLA Medellin hosted an engaging discussion on Kafka’s book Carta al Padre, which explores the power and its development into absolutism. The conversation highlighted the importance of promoting reading in Latin America, where people read the least, with countries like Colombia and Guatemala averaging less than three books per year.
Our leaders shared their connections to Kafka’s work, expressing how they felt represented in the themes of power dynamics and individual struggle—the event aimed to tackle the issue of low reading rates while promoting the ideas of liberty.
By connecting literature with the principles of freedom, the event inspired attendees to embrace reading as a personal and societal growth tool.
CLUB DE LECTURA EN ESPAÑOL PT 2
Part two of the book club lecture series featured a thought-provoking discussion on Aldous Huxley’s book “Revisitando un Mundo Feliz.” Attendees shared insights on how Huxley accurately predicted the increase in drug use within society, though his concerns about overpopulation have not materialized; instead, the opposite trend is observed.
The conversation also delved into propaganda and its influence on society. Attendees explored the mechanisms of propaganda and its impact on public opinion and behavior.
The event successfully combined literary analysis with discussions on contemporary societal issues, fostering a deeper understanding of the themes in Huxley’s work and their relevance today.
CLUB DE LECTURA EN ESPAÑOL PT 3
Part three of the book club lecture series featured an engaging discussion on Aldous Huxley’s “Brave New World.” The conversation focused on the theme of individuality, highlighting why it is crucial and how authoritarian and totalitarian regimes aim to abolish it.
Attendees explored Huxley’s depiction of a dystopian society and drew parallels to contemporary issues, emphasizing the importance of preserving individual freedoms. The discussion underscored the dangers of conformism and the need to protect personal autonomy against oppressive systems.
The event successfully fostered a deeper understanding of Huxley’s work and its relevance to the principles of liberty and individual rights.
CLUB DE LECTURA EN ESPAÑOL PT 4
This conversation emphasized how Orwell’s portrayal of a dystopian society underscores the necessity of protecting individual rights and freedoms. Participants reflected on the dangers of totalitarianism and the critical role of an independent press and secure property rights in maintaining a free society.
The event successfully deepened attendees’ understanding of “Animal Farm” and its relevance to the principles of liberty and individual rights.
LOLA BRAZIL
PATRIARCHY AND WOMEN’S LIBERTY – A CONVERSATION WITH GLORIA ÁLVAREZ
LOLA Brazil hosted an online event featuring special guest Gloria Álvarez, open to members worldwide. The discussion, titled “Patriarchy and Women’s Freedom,” focused on the challenges libertarian women face from populist leaders and patriarchal structures. Gloria highlighted the dangers of populist leaders like Trump, Bolsonaro, and Bukele, who distort freedom and position themselves as “saviors.” She stressed recognizing these false messiahs and defending libertarian principles and true liberty.
Gloria Álvarez, a Guatemalan Political Scientist with Cuban and Hungarian roots, is a prominent voice for libertarianism in the Americas and Europe. Known for her viral speech denouncing populist regimes, Gloria has given over 3,000 conferences and has a significant presence on radio, TV, and social media. She launched her presidential campaign in 2019 and 2023 and is working on her fourth book, “How To Defend Liberty Without Committing Suicide: A Handbook To Thrive On Social Media and Survive its Virus.”
Gloria has published three books: “El Engaño Populista/The Populist Deceit,” an international bestseller on populism; “How To Talk To A Progressive,” discussing the harms of socialism; and “How to Talk to a Conservative,” advocating libertarianism over conservatism. The event provided valuable insights into patriarchy and women’s liberty, inspiring attendees to defend their libertarian principles in a complex political landscape. We thank Gloria Álvarez for her powerful contributions and to all participants who made this event a success.
LOLA LISBON, PORTUGAL
ANÁLISE DAS ELEIÇÕES NO UK
LOLA Lisbon held an insightful chapter event led by Marina dos Santos, a landscape architect and founder of Casulo.co.uk, who brought a unique perspective to the discussion. The focus was on a comparative analysis of the British and Portuguese electoral systems. The event began with a detailed examination of the British “first-past-the-post” electoral system, which, while ensuring solid regional representation, was critiqued by attendees for its perceived unfairness in overall electoral outcomes. In contrast, Portugal’s proportional representation system was praised for more accurately reflecting the diverse political opinions of its population. However, attendees also expressed concerns about the rising tax burden in Portugal, which is currently at its highest level.
The discussion extended to the political cultures of both countries. There is a stronger tradition of political accountability in the UK, with leaders more likely to resign after scandals. This contrasted with the situation in Portugal, where political figures often remain in office despite controversies, which was a concern for many attendees. The event also explored the concept of the shadow cabinet government, a crucial feature of the British political system. The idea of having an opposition ready to take over governance was particularly intriguing to participants, especially when considering the differences in how political opposition functions in Portugal.
Overall, the event comprehensively compared the British and Portuguese electoral systems, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses. Marina dos Santos’s engaging session, which blended her expertise in urban planning with a deep interest in political systems, offered attendees a richer understanding of the complexities of both countries’ political structures. The participants left with a more precise recognition of the trade-offs inherent in different approaches to governance.
LOLA SANTA CRUZ, BOLIVIA
ECONOMÍA PARA NO ECONOMISTAS: JAIME DUNN
LOLA Santa Cruz hosted a chapter event centered on the pressing issue of dollar scarcity and the instability of the Bolivian currency. The discussion, led by the distinguished Jaime Dunn de Avila, sparked a lively debate among attendees. Jaime Dunn, who holds a Master’s in Business Administration from the Bolivian Catholic University and the Harvard Institute of International Development, brought a wealth of experience. His background includes roles such as a former New York Stock Exchange operator, Bolivia’s Securities Market Law co-author, and Vice President of Mabon Securities, an investment bank based in New York. He has also served as the Interim Governor of the Department of La Paz, founded and managed NAFIBO ST (now BDP ST), and provided advisory services to the Egyptian government, the U.S. Department of State, and the Dominican Republic’s Securities Market. Notably, Jaime Dunn was named “Best Investment Banker in Bolivia” by World Finance magazine and the London Stock Exchange in 2010 and 2011.
During the event, attendees engaged in an in-depth discussion with Jaime Dunn, exploring the complexities surrounding Bolivia’s financial landscape. The conversation covered challenges such as dollar scarcity and the broader economic implications of currency instability. Jaime Dunn’s insights, grounded in his extensive expertise in international finance and market regulations, offered participants a comprehensive understanding of Bolivia’s current economic challenges. The event was a valuable opportunity for attendees to gain deeper insights into these critical issues, guided by one of Bolivia’s most respected financial experts.
LOLA ATLANTA, GA
PIZZA & PHILOSOPHY – GET TO KNOW EACH OTHER
LOLA Atlanta hosted a gathering where attendees who had participated in the LevelUp event earlier in the week came together to discuss the key takeaways from Angel and Thomas’ talk on love as a trade. This insightful conversation naturally broadened into a discussion about what initially attracted each participant to libertarian philosophy, leading to a rich exchange of personal experiences and perspectives. The attendees also shared their enthusiasm for future events, suggesting ideas and preferences for topics and activities they would like to explore.
The event provided a valuable opportunity to introduce new participants to the Ladies of Liberty Alliance (LOLA) mission and recruit new members for the Atlanta chapter. It fostered a sense of community and engagement among like-minded women dedicated to promoting liberty and individual freedom. The enthusiasm and shared values evident in the discussions indicate a promising future for the chapter’s growth and activities.
LOLA SOUTH FLORIDA, FL
LIBERTY & LATTES | JUNE MEET UP
LOLA South Florida held a chapter event focused on uniting liberty-minded women and crafting an action plan to support Cuban resistance organizations. The discussion centered on the devastating impact of communist Cuba on its youth and the spread of misinformation by influencers who support the regime. Together, the group strategized on effective ways to counter these false narratives and disseminate the truth. The conversation also broadened to include the Israel-Palestine conflict and common misconceptions about Islam, with four Muslim members providing valuable insights into these complex issues. Additionally, the group supported one of their own by committing to promote her new bakery, Cookies du Jour, reinforcing their dedication to uplifting and empowering each other within the community.
LOLA ATLANTA, GA
INDEPENDENCE DAY BRUNCH
LOLA Atlanta hosted a dynamic chapter event in partnership with the Network of Enlightened Women (NeW) women, who have just launched their chapter in Atlanta. The event centered on personal branding and media creation, with several attendees sharing their insights and experiences from the media industry. Abigail Turner, who manages communications for a senator, offered valuable social media tips, while Sarah Higdon, a writer and content creator, highlighted the importance of building a solid personal brand. The group also took the opportunity to celebrate the release of Pamela Garfield’s new book, marking a proud moment within our community. For many NeW attendees, this event was their first introduction to LOLA, creating new connections and broadening our network of liberty-minded women. The gathering also doubled as a celebration of Independence Day, infusing the event with a patriotic spirit and a shared sense of purpose.
LOLA SOUTH FLORIDA, FL
LOLA SOUTH FL’S JULY MEET-UP
At the latest LOLA South Florida chapter event, participants gathered to support member Ivette’s initiative to engage with and promote art created by former Cuban political prisoners and those affected by the Cuban communist regime. The gathering provided a meaningful opportunity for members to connect with freedom fighters and women recently arriving from Cuba. During the event, attendees discussed strategies for spreading the ideas of liberty and emphasized the vital role of individual expression through art, poetry, and music. This powerful event underscored the importance of creative expression in resistance movements. It deepened participants’ commitment to supporting the Cuban resistance and amplifying the voices of those who have endured oppression.
LOLA SANTA CRUZ, BOLIVIA
ECONOMÍA PARA NO ECONOMISTAS: JUAN FERNANDO SUBIRANA
At this LOLA Santa Cruz chapter event, attendees engaged in an in-depth analysis of Bolivia’s economic situation amidst the ongoing crisis. The discussion focused on understanding the root causes of the current challenges, examining the unfolding consequences, and exploring potential scenarios for the country’s economic future. This comprehensive analysis gave participants a clearer understanding of Bolivia’s economy’s complexities and offered valuable insights into possible paths forward during these challenging times.
LOLA PARIS, FRANCE
THE FUTURE OF LIBERTE IN FRANCE AFTER RECENT ELECTIONS
LOLA Paris hosted an insightful event exploring the future of liberty in France, led by Ellie, the LOLA Paris Chapter Leader. The event began with Ellie introducing LOLA and the panelists, setting the stage for a deep dive into the current political landscape in France. Claire Berlinski and François Valentin provided an overview of the recent elections, explaining why they were held and how the French electoral system operates. They highlighted the key differences between political parties, with Danny Solomon explaining how European definitions of “right” and “left” differ from American perspectives.
The discussion then moved to the most essential issues for French voters, with Claire, François, and Danny analyzing why these concerns resonate so strongly in the current political climate. Danny also addressed the implications of these elections for the French Jewish community, adding a crucial dimension to the conversation. The panelists further discussed potential policies that could address France’s most pressing challenges, providing thoughtful insights into possible solutions.
The event concluded with a lively audience Q&A session, during which attendees could engage directly with the speakers. The panel featured notable experts, including Claire Berlinski, an American novelist and journalist; Daniel Solomon, a PhD candidate at UC Berkeley and published op-ed writer; and François Valentin, host of the Uncommon Decency podcast and editor of the Hexagon Newsletter. Their combined expertise offered a comprehensive analysis of the future of liberty in France, making the event informative and engaging for all who attended.
LOLA PESHAWAR, PAKISTAN
READING GROUP ON AN INTRODUCTION TO TRADE AND GLOBALIZATION
LOLA Peshawar recently organized a Colloquium in collaboration with National Influencers to educate female students on Pakistan’s trade policies and encourage them to advocate for sound policies from the government. Held at Sarhad University of Science & Information Technology Peshawar, the event attracted 34 participants who engaged deeply with the content of the “Introduction to Trade and Globalization” book. The discussion highlighted the need for more awareness among students and the general public regarding the laws and policies directly affecting their lives. Participants emphasized the importance of being informed and active in influencing policy reforms and lobbying to implement sound trade policies. By relating the book’s concepts to Pakistan’s current trade policies, the attendees called for a smoother and more effective approach from the government to improve the economic conditions of the local population and the country. The event successfully raised awareness and inspired the participants to take an active role in advocating for better trade practices in Pakistan.
LOLA RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL
BOOK AND WINE CLUB
LOLA Rio de Janeiro held a vibrant debate centered around Izabela Patriota’s article, “Neither Chocolates Nor Flowers: Give Us a Free Market.” The discussion focused on the impact of state intervention in women’s lives and how such involvement can undermine their freedom. Participants highlighted the pressing issue of sexist laws enacted by the Brazilian government, discussing how these laws not only perpetuate gender inequality but also restrict women’s autonomy. The debate fostered a critical examination of how state policies can hinder women’s rights. It emphasized the importance of advocating for a free market to empower women and protect their freedoms.
LOLA WASHINGTON D.C.
SUMMER HAPPY HOUR
LOLA DC hosted an event introducing new members to the chapter and discussing potential collaboration areas. The event acknowledged the lack of female representation in the libertarian movement and focused on strategies to address this gap. A significant part of the discussion revolved around effectively using social media to attract more women from the DC area to join LOLA’s DC chapter. Participants shared ideas on creating engaging content, targeting relevant audiences, and building an online community that resonates with women interested in libertarian values. The event fostered a sense of community among new members and laid the groundwork for future growth and collaboration within the chapter.
LOLA OKLAHOMA, OK
LADIES OF LIBERTY LUNCH
LOLA Oklahoma hosted an event aimed at meeting new and prospective members while raising awareness about LOLA’s mission and values. The gathering occurred at The Pink House, located within the historic Belvidere Mansion, which is preserved and managed by a private organization without relying on taxpayer funding. This venue was a prime example of how voluntarism and the free market can positively impact the community. The event highlighted the importance of private initiatives in maintaining cultural heritage and fostering community development, aligning perfectly with LOLA’s principles. Attendees could connect, learn more about the organization, and discuss the value of voluntarism in action.
LOLA PESHAWAR, PAKISTAN
DEBATE ON THE ROLE OF GOVERNMENT IMPERSONAL CHOICE
LOLA Peshawar organized an event to educate students on the critical role of government and its impact on individual rights and the economy. The discussion focused on the consequences of government overreach and excessive regulations, which have created significant challenges for the public and the business community. Participants highlighted how these regulations and over-taxation have curbed public rights and freedoms, leading to tension within the business sector and adversely affecting local and national economies. The event provided students with valuable insights into the role of government, the importance of individual rights, the responsibilities of citizens and the state, and the rule of law. Through this education, students were encouraged to critically evaluate the balance between government power and individual freedoms, emphasizing the need for responsible governance that supports economic growth and personal liberty.
LOLA TEL AVIV, ISRAEL
ECONOMICS IN A LIVING ROOM – CONSCRIPTION LAW
LOLA Tel Aviv hosted an online seminar on understanding the consequences of conscription law. The event delved into the various impacts of mandatory military service on individuals and society. Participants explored the implications of conscription on personal freedom, economic opportunities, and social dynamics. The seminar provided a platform for a critical discussion on conscription’s ethical and practical aspects, encouraging attendees to consider alternative approaches that could better align with the principles of liberty and individual choice. The event raised awareness about the complexities of conscription law and its far-reaching consequences.
LOLA JERUSALEM, ISRAEL
FREEDOM OF CHOICE IN EDUCATION
LOLA Jerusalem hosted an engaging event titled “Being Aware of the Choices in Education,” featuring a conversation with Mirav Raht, a social activist and educator, as the keynote speaker. The event, facilitated by Asnat Nir, centered on the importance of freedom of choice in education and the need for reform within the public education system.
Mirav Raht, a teacher at the public democratic school “Mesilot” and a management team member at “Leading Teachers for Change,” shared her insights on promoting managerial autonomy, representation freedom for teachers, and choice freedom for parents. Her experience as a mother of three and a part-time reservist soldier’s wife added depth to the discussion, highlighting the personal and professional stakes involved in the education system.
Asnat Nir, a software developer and educator, facilitated the conversation, bringing her expertise in economics and free market principles to the discussion. As a mother of five and an active member of LOLA’s Jerusalem branch, Asnat provided valuable perspectives on how free market ideas can influence and improve educational choices.
The event successfully fostered a meaningful dialogue on the significance of educational freedom, empowering participants to consider the role of choice and autonomy in shaping the future of education in Israel.