Connecticut Women's Education and Legal Fund (CWEALF) Information

The Connecticut Women’s Education and Legal Fund is an antiracist, intersectional, and feminist nonprofit organization. Using a justice and equity lens, we work to close the civil legal justice gap, advocate for policy that improves economic security, and organize for statewide systemic change. CWEALF advocates the creation of policies that advance women’s economic security and promote gender equity. We do that through 3 interconnected programs. Legal Information and Access: CWEALF helps bridge the justice gap by providing information about the legal rights of women and girls, as well as connecting them with resources and providing individual support as they navigate the justice system. CWEALF provides free, confidential legal information, attorney referrals, and personalized legal advocacy in English and Spanish to any individual in need, particularly women living with low-income. We serve 1,000 - 1,200 individuals per year. Public Policy and Advocacy: CWEALF responds to the systemic barriers our Legal Education clients experience by leading the only statewide legislative agenda that intentionally centers the voices of women of color to advance policies that improve women’s economic security. CWEALF leads policy coalitions, offers public testimony, and collaborates with community partners. CWEALF led the Campaign for Paid Family Leave to the passage of one of the most comprehensive paid leave laws in the country and championed nation-leading legislation to increase pay transparency and combat gender and racial wage gaps. Community Organizing: CWEALF builds community power across the state by creating and sharing capacity-building tools, fostering relationships, and following the lead of Connecticut women and girls. We work directly with marginalized communities, such as our Legal Education clients, to educate and mobilize them toward action around legislative policy advocacy that will benefit their communities.