The Commonwealth Heroines are women who don’t make the news, but make the difference. Thousands of women in every community of the state perform unheralded acts on a daily basis that make our homes, neighborhoods, cities, and towns better places to live. Commonwealth Heroines use their time, talent, spirit, and enthusiasm to enrich the lives of others in their community. They are mentors, volunteers, and innovators who strive to protect and represent the interests of seniors, victims of violence, children, immigrants, and other vulnerable populations. They are the glue that keeps a community together.
Each year the Commission partners with state legislators to identify women who make outstanding contributions to their organizations and communities. Each legislator is encouraged to submit one woman from their constituency as a means of recognizing their invaluable community efforts. We accept only recommendations from state legislators but if you know of an ideal candidate, we recommend that you reach out to your representatives to offer a suggestion. Please note the Commission launches the Commonwealth Heroine initiative in February of each year and are in touch with legislators shortly thereafter seeking submission.
June 24, 2022
Thank you and congratulations to the Commonwealth Heroines Class of 2022!
We enjoyed seeing those who could joins us-- in person and virtually!
View the Commonwealth Heroines Class of 2022 Program Book here.
To view the Commonwealth Heroine Celebration Recording visit our Facebook page.
2021
Commonwealth Heroines Class of 2021 Program Book
MCSW Commonwealth Heroine Class of 2021, June 2021
2020
Commonwealth Heroines Class of 2020 Virtual Celebration
Commonwealth Heroines Class of 2020 Program Book
MCSW Commonwealth Heroine Class of 2020, June 2020
2019
Unsung Heroines Program Booklet 2019
Historic List of Commonwealth Heroines
Commonwealth Heroines FAQs
What is Commonwealth Heroines?
The Commonwealth Heroine Celebration is an opportunity to recognize the women across the state who don’t always make the news but who are truly making a difference in their communities, businesses, or volunteer endeavors. We rely on legislators to nominate incredible women in their districts for their contributions to their community and the Commonwealth.
What did the Commonwealth Heroine Celebration look like in 2022?
The event took place on June 22, 2022, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM at The Venezia in Dorchester, MA, and was live-streamed through Zoom and Facebook Live. Senator Joan Lovely and Representative Patricia Haddad joined virtually for opening remarks. We had over 300 in-person guests and 128 Zoom participants at its peak. All Heroines received a Heroine Package with a single wrapped yellow rose, MCSW Lapel Pin, 19th Annual Commonwealth Heroine Program Book, and Award Certificate in a Commonwealth Heroine branded tote bag.
How long have we done the Commonwealth Heroines Celebration?
Since 2004! In the past 19 years, we’ve recognized over 2,000 incredible women across the state of MA.
When and where will Commonwealth Heroines take place this year?
This year, the Commonwealth Heroines Celebration will take place on Friday, June 23rd, 2023 at the MA State House (24 Beacon St. Boston, MA).
How does someone get nominated?
MCSW accepts recommendations solely from Legislators, but constituents are encouraged to reach out to their legislators if they would like to offer a constituent as a suggestion.
If an individual was recognized in the past as Heroine, can they be nominated again?
We do not accept repeat nominations because we want to give ample space and opportunity for others to be recognized each year.
For more information on the Commonwealth Heroines Program, please email us at MCSW@mass.gov.