Barbara Lee Releases Statement in Honor of Women's History Month
For Immediate Release
Contact: Kristal DeKleer (202) 225-1882
Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) issued the following statement today to commemorate Women’s History Month:
“The celebration of Women’s History Month has grown from an idea initiated in Sonoma, California, in the 1970s by the Education Task Force, to a week established in 1978, to a month-long celebration of the impact of women throughout history. Formally established in 1987, Women’s History Month honors the enormous strides and great accomplishments of women. It is a reminder to build on their legacy by sharing with children in classrooms across the country the countless ways women have made an impact on the outcome of American history.
“In the midst of the formation of Women’s History Month, the Honorable Shirley Chisholm, my mentor and friend, was making history. As the first African American woman member of Congress, she worked tirelessly to remain unbought and unbossed. In 1972, her trailblazing path continued when she became the first woman to make a bid for the Democratic Party’s presidential nomination. I had the great pleasure of meeting her then and becoming one of her delegates. As we reach the 40th anniversary of this bid, I am reminded that Shirley Chisholm inspired me to believe that the Oval Office was not the sole property and province of men.
“Naturally, there are a number of inspirational women who have contributed in ways big and small to the fabric of America. Society, however, does not make it easy for women to be leaders. These heroines fought for equal pay in the workplace, voting rights, the right to raise a family while maintaining a career, women’s reproductive rights and so much more. I am eternally grateful for the courage of these women who sacrificed so much to make the dreams of future generations of women more attainable.
“As we mark the beginning of Women’s History Month, I encourage women from every corner in the world to take up the same challenge that our predecessors embarked upon. Let’s join together to become mentors to young women and dedicate ourselves to helping cultivate the next generation of female leaders.”
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