Tuesday, March 31, 2026 at 1:03 PM
Tuesday, March 31, 2026 at 1:03 PM
On Saturday, March 28, the lobby of The Commons was filled with women of all ages for the Women’s Health Summit. Her Seasons: From Menstruation to Post Menopause, created by the Historic Anacostia Family Success Center in partnership with Martha’s Table and Village of Aunties, was a day of listening and learning for everyone in the room.
From teens who had questions about reproductive health to seasoned citizens wanting to better understand hormones and menopause, the event created space for women to come together and have honest conversations about what it means to care for our bodies and support one another through every stage of womanhood.
Cherry blossom decorations filled the space, symbolizing the ever-blooming journey of womanhood, and guests were invited to walk the pink carpet upon arrival. The atmosphere was welcoming and vibrant, with women sharing stories and learning from both experts and one another.
Throughout the summit, speakers led powerful conversations on physical health, mental health, nutrition, and the importance of advocacy in healthcare settings.
Dr. Lisa Fitzpatrick opened the discussion by highlighting the importance of speaking openly with healthcare providers and feeling confident in self-advocacy. Reflecting on her own journey, she noted, “These are conversations we need to have. When I was a girl, the advice I was given was simply ‘don’t get pregnant’ – I didn’t know anything about menopause and had to learn on my own.” She emphasized that it is time to move past that silence, adding, “In my career, I have met with so many women who want to know what is happening and put in the effort to slow down and learn. It’s time we start having these real conversations!”
Mental health was also a key focus of the summit. Psychologist Dr. Charlayne Hayling-Williams spoke candidly about the emotional burdens many women carry and the importance of seeking support and community, sharing, “The things we are expected to endure, to live through, and be productive through are out of this world. We as women tend to make grief look really good because of how we have to hold it together. That’s a superpower, and it’s super risky… because grief is normal, but the compound ways we tend to experience trauma really rewires our brains. It’s okay to get support and tap into resources available to you. Have your cup filled by therapy and community support because you can’t pour from an empty vessel.”
Historian, professor, and author Deirdre Cooper Owens emphasized the importance of culturally competent healthcare and access to medical professionals who truly listen. She shared, “Don’t take for granted that you are in DC and can connect with doctors who are culturally competent. Each of us deserves to be heard and understood.”
Alexandra Brown, a nutritionist, provided practical advice on using food to support women’s health throughout various life stages, urging them to approach their diets with curiosity and intention. She shared, “What we eat is directly related to how we feel. Try new foods! Adding healthy options can be done slowly, and doesn’t have to be overnight. Our connection to food will become even better when we are intentional about what goes into our bodies – food can be an important part of our healing journey!”
For many attendees, the most powerful moments came from the openness of the discussions and the sense of shared experiences among the women in the room. Chika Onwuvuche of Washington Area Women’s Foundation reflected on the meaningful environment, stating, “I really enjoyed the candid conversations about individuals’ lived experiences in the health space. I especially appreciated the safe environment created for Black women to speak openly with other Black women about what they have experienced. Spaces like Martha’s Table are a great example of making sure people see themselves in the community and in the resources they participate in.”
“There is something profoundly beautiful and powerful when women come together to learn, share vulnerabilities, and exercise power. I am honored and privileged to work at an organization that is committed to walking alongside our neighbors in Ward 8. At Martha’s Table, we strive to be a true, trusted neighbor, creating intentional spaces like the Women’s Health Summit where all women are supported through every stage of their lives.” – Tiffany Williams, President & CEO, Martha’s Table
As the day came to a close, women were invited to participate in chair yoga and sound therapy with Mellie Harris and Dr. Ivy Hylton. It was a moment to pause, honor themselves, and celebrate their commitment to showing up, learning, and caring for their well-being. Martha’s Table President and CEO Tiffany Williams reminded every woman in the room that even during life’s most challenging moments, taking care of ourselves and leaning on our community can help carry us through.
Historic Anacostia Family Success Center Manager Angela Draughn created the first-ever Women’s Health Summit with a clear vision to bring women together to discuss health at every stage of life, stating, “The Women’s Health Summit was a powerful example of what happens when we intentionally create space for women in Ward 8 to connect, heal, and learn. These gatherings are important for building a strong community and are a vital part of the work we do at the Historic Anacostia Family Success Center. Through intentional events, resource navigation, and genuine connections, we are actively building a stronger DC where every woman feels seen and supported.”
The inaugural Women’s Health Summit was more than just an event; it was a testament to the lasting impact of intentionally creating a space for women to connect, heal, and learn from one another.
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NewsMay 4, 2026 at 1:19 PM
This Teacher Appreciation Week, we’re celebrating the early childhood educators at Martha’s Table who show up every day to nurture curiosity, build confidence, and help Washington, DC’s youngest learners thrive. Meet the people behind the magic and join us at our Open House on June 27!
April 30, 2026 at 1:16 PM
Martha’s Table Community Activator Maria Johnson reflects on Global Passport’s recent trip to Panama and how travel, service, and cultural exchange helped Ward 8 teens broaden their horizons, build confidence, and imagine new possibilities for their futures.
April 29, 2026 at 10:04 AM
Curious about the volunteers who make Martha’s Table such a special place? This month, we’re sharing the inspiring story of Miss Rosemary, honoring the legacy of the Joe Horning Helping Hands Award, and celebrating the thousands of volunteers whose service to our community makes our programming possible.
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