Wendy Davis

Wendy Davis is an American lawyer, politician, and women's rights advocate known for her 13-hour filibuster in the Texas Senate. As a member of the Democratic Party, Davis represented the 10th district in the Texas Senate, serving on committees such as Economic Development, Transportation, and Veteran Affairs and Military Installations. She gained national attention when she took the Senate floor to block Senate Bill 5, an anti-abortion measure, standing for nearly 13 hours without food, drink, rest, or the ability to sit. The filibuster, during which she wore hot pink Mizuno sneakers, was live-streamed and covered by major outlets including The New York Times and The Washington Post. The sneakers became a widely recognized feminist symbol.

Before her political career, Davis graduated first in her class at Texas Christian University and earned her law degree with honors from Harvard Law School. She built a legal and business career, serving as CEO of Republic Title's Fort Worth Division. The Texas abortion restrictions she filibustered were later challenged in the U.S. Supreme Court case Whole Woman's Health v. Hellerstedt, where the Court struck down key provisions. Davis submitted an amicus brief in the case, sharing her personal story to illustrate the law's impact.

Davis chronicled her experiences in the memoir "Forgetting to Be Afraid." She was the Democratic nominee for Governor of Texas and later ran for Texas's 21st Congressional District.

Outside of electoral politics, Davis founded Deeds Not Words, a nonprofit organization dedicated to activating young women as advocates for gender equity. Her work with the organization earned recognition from Fast Company. Davis serves as senior advisor to Planned Parenthood Texas Votes, focusing on strategic planning, development, and leadership cultivation. As a keynote speaker, she has addressed audiences at Google, TED, and SXSW, sharing insights on women's leadership, diversity, and inclusion. Her journey from single teenage mother to Harvard Law graduate and advocate for women's rights continues to inform her work in law, politics, and social justice.