Washington, D.C. – Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi released the following statement marking Women’s History Month:
"During Women’s History Month we honor the giants who paved the path for progress and equality. From those who marched for suffrage, to those who suffered for advancement, to those who have broken glass ceilings in every aspect of modern life, this month is an opportunity for us to celebrate the women who came before us. As this year’s theme says, 'our history is our strength.'
“This month we also recognize the silent heroes of the present: women who make history every day as mothers and daughters, community leaders, and proud citizens. It is in their honor, and with the highest aspirations for future generations of women, that we recommit ourselves to expanding opportunities for all.
“With opportunity in mind, in the last Congress we took action to ensure health care for all Americans. On this Women’s History Month, for the first time, no longer is being a woman a preexisting condition.
“Today, we must also recommit to addressing the economic challenges facing Americans; indeed women have been particularly hard hit by this downturn. To do so, we must focus on the top priority of the American people: creating jobs. But instead, some in Congress are prioritizing legislation that is extreme and divisive, dangerous to women’s health, and is nothing less than the most comprehensive and radical assault on reproductive freedom in our lifetime. At the same time they are restricting reproductive choice, Republicans are limiting access to family planning and primary care, even when it saves lives.
"This month, let’s come together to honor the labors of America’s women – in the workplace and at home - with our own best efforts to ensure progress. And let us never forget that we come to this place because of the brave, relentless and optimistic actions of the women heroes of our nation’s history."
Pelosi Statement on Women’s History Month
March 01, 2011
