Recognizing the Accomplishments of Women and the Work Still Before Us

Statement

Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz made the following statement in recognition of the 100th anniversary of International Women's Day, which falls within Women's History Month:

"Today, we recognize the 100th International Women's Day, which falls during National Women's History Month. It is an opportunity to pay tribute to the indelible contributions women have made worldwide. One hundred years ago, women in the United States, and many other countries, could not even vote. Now, women have held Cabinet positions, achieved momentous feats in science, law, and medicine, and, internationally, have even served as presidents and prime ministers.

"And though we continue to make gains, we must remember that a woman's work is never done. While we are proud of our accomplishments thus far, and rightly so, we can't stop here. Women are earning more degrees than men yet still make only 75 percent, on average, of what their male counterparts are paid. Women make up only 17 percent of the U.S. Congress, hold only six Governorships nationwide--and we still have yet to break that ultimate glass ceiling, the Presidency.
"This year, National Women's History Month comes at a time when women's rights and livelihood are under attack. From redefining "rape' to raising taxes on people with private, comprehensive health insurance plans to cutting funding for family planning, maternal and child health, and Head Start programs, the attacks are coming from all angles in the Republican-led House, and we, as women, must stand strong against them.

"As we embrace the theme of this year's National Women's History Month, Our History is Our Strength, I urge the women of South Florida to stand strong against this war on women. We must summon the strength of our sisters, mothers, and grandmothers before us, and allow our voices as women to be heard. If we don't speak for ourselves, no one else will!"

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