Brownley Statement on Women's History Month

Statement

Today, Congresswoman Julia Brownley (D-Westlake Village) issued the following statement on Women's History Month:

"This March marks the 28th anniversary of Women's History Month, a time when we come together to honor and celebrate the extraordinary lives, achievements, and triumphs of women throughout American history. These leaders have inspired my work in Congress and serve as important role models for young girls and boys across our nation.

"Women have been at the forefront of progress throughout our nation's history, committing their lives to ensuring equality for all Americans, and the voices of women who have fought for equal rights in the face of adversity are still with us today. Today, we have 104 women serving in the United States Congress; the first time in history that number has passed the 100 mark.

"Yet, despite the immense strides forward, women still face many challenges today. Women still earn 77 cents for every dollar that their male counterparts earn in the workplace, and the median annual earnings of a woman are nearly 22 percent less than those of their male colleagues. And with women being the sole or primary breadwinners in 40 percent of U.S. households with children, it is imperative that Congress passes legislation to raise the federal minimum wage, which it hasn't done since 2007. Every woman deserves the chance to build a better life for her family -- closing the pay gap and raising the minimum wage will provide that opportunity, because when women succeed, America succeeds.

"As a working mother, I also believe it is imperative that all women are treated equally and receive fair compensation. That is why I support the Paycheck Fairness Act to improve federal laws that protect workers from gender-based discrimination in the workplace.

"Although there remains much work to be done to ensure equal treatment for all, Women's History Month allows us to reflect on what we have accomplished and to thank the great American women who have blazed a trail for others to follow. I look forward to continuing to work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle as we pick up the torch and continue to fight for equal rights."

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