Lydia Maria Child

Floor Speech

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Ms. CLARK of Massachusetts. Mr. Speaker, the district I serve, the Fifth District of Massachusetts, is home to women who have shaped our Nation's history. I would like to celebrate one of those extraordinary women in celebration of Women's History Month.

When you hear the song, ``Over the River and Through the Woods,'' you are hearing the words of Medford native Lydia Maria Child, a 19th century novelist, poet, abolitionist, Native American rights activist, and women's rights advocate who pioneered early progressive activism with her groundbreaking work.

In her fight for justice and equality, she wrote one of the earliest American historical novels, the first comprehensive history of American slavery, and the first comparative history of women.

As we celebrate Women's History Month and continue to strive for equality and justice for all women, we take great pride in celebrating the contributions of Lydia Maria Child and the other women leaders who have shaped our great country.

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