LINCOLN -- The YWCA Northern Rhode Island has invited all women in Rhode Island holding elected public office to a receptiion tonight at the Kirkbrae Country Club.

The event, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., is part of Women's History Month.

The YWCA said that more than 200 women hold elective office in the state.

The keynote speaker is Victoria A. Budson, founding executive director of the Women and Public Policy Program (WAPPP) at the Harvard Kennedy School.

WAPPP analyzes cutting-edge gender issues as they impact women and men throughout the world. She serves on the board of directors for the National Council for Research on Women. Budson is an active consultant and has worked with organizations including EMILY's List and the Global Justice Center.

The program will also include opening remarks from Rhode Island's highest-ranking female elected official, Lt. Governor Elizabeth Roberts; poetry from Hannah Claire Resseger a spoken word and rap artist; and observations regarding women in politics from event partners - League of Women Voters of Rhode Island, Center for Women & Enterprise, and Rhode Island Commission on Women.

Tickets are $25, must be purchased in advance, and include entrance to the event and complimentary hors d'oeuvres. For more information, contact Lisa Piscatelli at YWCA Northern Rhode Island, 401-769-7450 or lpiscatelli@verizonmail.com.