by “Time moves in one direction, memory in another.” – William Gibson
This quote has been interpreted in a number of ways, but when I consider it, I tend to think about the importance of where we’ve been as it relates to where we’re going.
Without acknowledging our history, it would feel rudderless to look ahead. As a nonprofit organization, it’s especially important to continually remind ourselves of our mission. To remember WHY we were formed and what our goals were at that time.
That doesn’t mean continually looking backwards (“But we’ve always done it THIS way!”). Progress demands flexibility and acknowledgement that things change. The core of who we are as an organization should not be subject to societal or organizational whims.
The Wisconsin Breast Cancer Coalition was formed in response to what our founders saw as an alarming increase in the number of their family members and friends being diagnosed with breast cancer. They wanted answers. And they wanted them from scientists and policy makers.
My introduction to the WBCC was an eye opener. I had been involved in cancer advocacy for a year or two and proudly sported my pink ribbons, participated in walks and helped raise money. When I joined the WBCC, I realized there was a big difference going on here. These women had agency! They were taking control of their lives, their efforts, their search for answers. This was no bake sale (not to disparage bake sales – I’ve baked and eaten my share of cupcakes for a good cause!) But, they weren’t just raising money and handing it over to someone else. They believed – as we do today – that breast cancer is a public health crisis that deserves attention and funding from our governmental agencies. They believed – as we do today – that policy makers need to hear from the people most affected by breast cancer about the enormous impact it has on their lives. They believed – as we do today – that we will NOT quietly wait for change, but will make it happen.
It’s hard work. Sometimes it takes years for success, but it is immensely gratifying to acknowledge the differences we’ve made.
We’ll be sharing some memories this year as we celebrate our 30th anniversary. There will be fond memories and some sad ones, as we recognize women we’ve lost over the years. But we’ll also be following the arrow of time and looking towards our future. We hope you’ll join us in our continued journey. Let’s do more good work together!
(Visit our Accomplishments page to see some of our successes.)