During a recent city council meeting, members celebrated significant milestones in community leadership and gender equality initiatives. Council member Bagley initiated a motion to honor Miss Mattice for her 60 years of leadership at the Northern Virginia Transportation Commission (NVTC), highlighting her contributions to vital mobility projects in the region. The motion received unanimous support from the council, reflecting the community's appreciation for her long-standing service.

In a separate proclamation, Vice Mayor Jackson presented a tribute to the Alexandria Commission for Women, marking its 50th anniversary. The commission was established in response to a 1974 report that revealed systemic discrimination against women in various sectors, including employment and education. The report highlighted disparities such as women earning 36% less than their male counterparts and the underfunding of women's sports.

The commission, now comprising 16 volunteer commissioners, continues to advocate for women's rights and address ongoing challenges such as reproductive rights, domestic violence, and gender discrimination. The council's proclamation acknowledges the commission's significant contributions and reaffirms the city's commitment to eliminating gender-based disparities. The anniversary will be officially recognized on September 24, 2024, as a testament to the progress made and the work still needed to ensure equality for all residents of Alexandria.