Dear Gov. Haley,

My name is Heather Bragg. 

Together with a small group of women on Hilton Head Island and in Bluffton, we are starting a non-partisan organization that encourages women to run for office. The idea is to get more women involved in politics, not just as bystanders but as active participants in all levels of government. 

We are tentatively called Lowcountry Women for Office. Our mission is to support women running for a governing position — even if it’s their neighborhood Property Owners Association; to guide them through any paperwork and deadlines; eventually to match women candidates with mentors; and to provide a forum where a woman’s voice can be heard.

I was inspired to form this group after the election — not because Hillary Clinton lost the Electoral College votes needed to be president but because it’s historically evident that women need more representation in all levels of government. 

Sometimes, people need a little push to get motivated.

I am writing to inquire if you know anyone who would be interested in joining our group or helping us get started. I own a full-service marketing agency in Bluffton, and I plan on taking care of the website, social media marketing, press releases and other publicity. In fact, I have already discussed this idea with a reporter from The Island Packet and WSAV-TV; they are very interested in covering this group as soon as we are more organized. 

If this election has taught me anything, everyone needs to get more involved with their community, no matter their party affiliation. The political divisiveness that has emerged over the last two years (and longer) has been very discouraging. My hope is that as a nonpartisan organization, Lowcountry Women for Office will help bridge a gap and be a positive force for the women of my community.

In the spirit of full disclosure, I am a Democrat. You are the first person I have contacted about Lowcountry Women for Office. You have been an excellent leader during some unusually trying times for South Carolina — from historic floodings to the mass shooting in Charleston. As an evacuee during Hurricane Matthew, you were a calming force for my family. It would be an honor if you’d be willing to support Lowcountry Women for Office.

Very warm regards,

Heather Bragg