Lipstick and Legislation: Mary Kay Inc. Celebrates 60 Years of Women’s Empowerment on Capitol Hill
On September 13, as Mary Kay Inc. marked its 60th anniversary, the iconic beauty brand took its celebrations to the heart of the nation's capital. Hosting a "Mary Kay Day on the Hill" in Washington DC, the company showcased its commitment to advocating for women’s entrepreneurship and empowerment at the highest levels.
The event was more than just a celebration—it was an opportunity for Mary Kay's Independent Beauty Consultants, both seasoned and new, to connect directly with their members of Congress and share their personal entrepreneurship journeys, highlighting the unique circumstances that led them to start their own businesses with Mary Kay. Their stories served as powerful testimonials, educating policymakers on the significance of the Mary Kay opportunity in their respective Congressional districts.
It was also an opportunity to highlight Mary Kay’s impact in the community through the company’s support of key initiatives which advance women’s status to build more inclusive and resilient societies.
Discussions included:
- the global partnership of the Women’s Entrepreneurship Accelerator (WEA) incepted by Mary Kay in 2019, bringing together 6 UN Agencies, governments and the private sector to create an enabling ecosystem for women entrepreneurs around the world;
- the company’s support of increasing access to STEM educational opportunities for young women, and
- the impact of the Mary Kay Ash Foundation since its launch in 1996, which has contributed more than $92 million to organizations on the frontlines of domestic violence response and cancer research for cancers affecting women.
Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett (TX-30), who attended the breakfast reception, underscored the importance of civic engagement, the need for women's entrepreneurship, and increased labor market participation.
Sheryl Adkins-Green, Mary Kay’s Chief Experience Officer, paid tribute to Mary Kay Ash's vision from 60 years ago. She reflected on the company's journey, from its inception just weeks after Mary Kay Ash lost her husband, to its current global impact under the leadership of CEO Ryan Rogers, Mary Kay Ash’s grandson. The theme of "Then, Now, Always" resonated throughout her speech, emphasizing the company's enduring commitment to changing lives worldwide.
The day was packed with meetings with Mary Kay representatives and Independent Beauty Consultants engaging with over 50 Congressional offices to speak about the importance of women’s entrepreneurship and empowerment to create strong and inclusive societies.
