In a multi-ethnic town in Bosnia, women’s rights activists from traditionally antagonistic communities worked together on one issue where they could all agree. Working to force the passage of a law requiring employers to give women paid maternity leave, the women brought together NGOs and political leaders. They were successful both in winning their fight for paid maternity leave, but also in bridging ethnic and religious divisions. This coalition demonstrates not only the effectiveness of local political activists, but how conflicting groups can be brought together while strengthening democratic processes.