A comprehensive study conducted by the Utah State University Utah Women & Leadership Project (UWLP) has unveiled crucial insights into the challenges encountered by Utah women and girls in various facets of their lives. This research, undertaken in the autumn of 2023, focused on education, community engagement, safety and security, health and well-being, and the workplace. The survey amassed data from 3,505 Utahns aged 18 and above, with the aim of establishing a baseline of public perceptions on these significant issues.
The study, carried out by the UWLP, sought to furnish leaders and residents of Utah with extensive insights into the current perceptions of its populace. A total of 19 research summaries were produced, with 13 already released to the public. The research summaries encompass a wide array of topics, including Health Across the Lifespan, Entrepreneurship, and Finance, shedding light on the challenges and opportunities encountered by women in Utah.
One of the key findings disclosed in the Health Across the Lifespan research summary is the significant health challenges faced by Utah girls and women, impacting multiple aspects of their lives. The results revealed that while most Utahns believe they can schedule and complete a preventative healthcare visit within the next 12 months, there is a lack of knowledge and awareness regarding reproductive health, perimenopause, and intimate partner violence screening. These challenges underscore the importance of addressing the holistic well-being of women.
Concerning Entrepreneurship, the research underscored the substantial growth of women-owned businesses in Utah. While there is a strong desire among residents to establish their own businesses, there is a necessity for heightened awareness of the resources and support available to aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly women. This area presents a promising avenue for empowering women to pursue entrepreneurial ventures and contribute to the economic growth of the state.
The Finance research summary emphasised the significance of financial security and literacy for women of all ages. The findings underscored the need to enhance women’s awareness of financial resources and enable them to make informed decisions about their personal finances. Strengthening financial competence and confidence among women has the potential to benefit their families and the overall state of Utah.
Dr. Susan R. Madsen, founder and director of UWLP, highlighted the importance of the A Bolder Way Forward movement, which seeks to dismantle barriers and establish an environment where women and girls can thrive in various settings. She stressed the significance of addressing the challenges outlined in the research summaries to pave the way for the empowerment and success of Utah women and girls.
The insights provided by the UWLP research summaries are pivotal in guiding the development of strategies and initiatives that seek to uplift and support women and girls across Utah. By addressing the challenges identified in the study, Utah can work towards creating a more equitable and empowering environment for women, thereby fostering the overall advancement and prosperity of the state.