Not in Our Wildest Dream Viewing

As part of Women’s History Month, I had the opportunity to attend a screening of Not In Our Wildest Dreams at the Columbia Public Library. This is a documentary celebrating a historic milestone in Missouri.

In 2023, Missouri became just the 14th state in the country to have a female majority on its Supreme Court. Sitting in the room and watching the film alongside members of the community was a powerful reminder of how far women have come in leadership spaces that were not always accessible to them.

The event, hosted in collaboration with the American Association of University Women and the League of Women Voters of Columbia-Boone County, highlighted not only the accomplishments of these women, but the impact they continue to have on future generations. The documentary captured their journeys, their influence on the court, and their commitment to civic engagement.

Following the screening, former Missouri Supreme Court Judge Patricia Breckenridge participated in a panel discussion, sharing insights on the judicial system and the importance of representation. One of the most impactful takeaways from the evening was the idea that visibility creates confidence. When young women can see themselves reflected in positions of leadership, it opens doors they may not have previously considered.

As someone who is passionate about empowering young women through sports and leadership, this event reinforced a belief I hold strongly: exposure matters. Whether it is in athletics, the courtroom, or any professional space, seeing women lead helps the next generation believe they can do the same.

Events like this are not just about celebrating progress. They are about continuing it.

Women’s History Month serves as a reminder that leadership takes many forms, and the responsibility now is to ensure that more young women feel equipped, encouraged, and confident enough to step into those roles.