Halle Berry Believes Gavin Newsom Has Ignored Women and is Unfit to be President in Urgent Appeal for Menopause Support

During a heartfelt and candid address at The New York Times Dealbook Summit on Wednesday, actress and filmmaker Halle Berry, also the founder of menopause-focused company Respin, spoke out about the challenges women face in both Hollywood and corporate spheres. Berry highlighted her frustration with California Governor Gavin Newsom for vetoing a menopause-related bill she supported and urged women to reclaim authority over their health.

At this stage in my life, I have no patience left to hold back, Berry stated to the influential audience in New York.

Her remarks on Newsom prompted audible reactions after she detailed her nationwide advocacy for legislation supporting menopause research and education. In my home state of California, Governor Gavin Newsom has rejected our menopause bill not once, but twice, Berry said. Thats disappointing, but its also telling. By overlooking women, half of the population, he demonstrates why he may not be fit to be our next president either.

Berry shared personal stories from her upbringing and professional life, emphasizing the persistent societal pressures on women as they age. At 59, women like me are often seen as past our prime, she noted. Hollywood, workplaces, social mediathey all push the idea that women should remain 35 forever. If we appear younger, its treated as our value standard. If we age naturally, we are too often rendered invisible.

She further described the extreme measures women feel compelled to take to maintain a youthful appearance and admitted to experiencing these pressures herself daily. We bend ourselves into impossible standards chasing an unattainable youth. I feel that pressure constantly, Berry said.

Reflecting on her childhood in Cleveland, Ohio, Berry recounted being bullied and physically attacked, describing the moment as formative. After being left in the gutter, I realized I couldnt let anyone treat me that way again, she shared. From that point onward, I decided never to be a victim and to stand up for myself, refusing to allow mistreatment in any form.

Berrys speech wove together her advocacy for womens health, personal experiences, and a critique of cultural norms that undervalue midlife women, making a powerful call for both political and societal change.

Author: Zoe Harrison