"We can honor these women leaders by continuing our work to bend the moral arc of the universe toward justice; it's needed now more than ever." - LWVOC President Rev. Kathy Schmitz

Women who shattered the glass ceiling were celebrated March 28 at this year’s Annual Women’s History Breakfast at the Orange County Regional History Center.

Some 160 Central Florida leaders gathered to honor five fearless women who reshaped Orlando’s political landscape. 

Through the Glass Ceiling: Orlando’s Political Pioneers paid tribute to Mable Butler, Linda Chapin, Martha O. Haynie, Glenda Hood, and Mary I. Johnson, the first women to break top leadership barriers in the City of Orlando and Orange County.

From the mayor’s office to the commission chambers and more, these trailblazers campaigned against the odds, won hard-fought victories, and expanded opportunities in spaces where their voices had long been underrepresented.

The League of Women Voters of Orange County was a co-sponsor of the event, and many of the honorees earned leadership skills in the LWVOC during their formative years.

The Rev. Kathy Schmitz, LWVOC president, was among the speakers. “We honor these women leaders by continuing our work to bend the moral arc of the universe toward justice,” she said.

Proceeds from the event support the programs of the History Center, especially the paid HERstory: Women in History Internship.