Rep. Leger Fernández's Statement on International Women's Day

Press Release

Congresswoman Teresa Leger Fernández issued the following statement in recognition of International Women's Day:

"As the first Latina to serve New Mexico's third district, today I recognize, applaud, and celebrate the women and girls who continue to build progress through their leadership on International Women's Day.

I stand on the shoulders of my hermanas who came before me -- trailblazing women like Nina Otero Warren, the suffragist and first Latina to run for Congress, Jeannette Rankin, the first woman actually elected to Congress, or Deb Haaland, one of the first Native American women elected to Congress. These women worked tirelessly to ensure all of us could have a place at the table today. It is because of their courage that I am stronger. Their journey paved the path forward. I am lifted up because they once envisioned a brighter future of possibilities and made it a reality.

Their vision back then made it possible for more than 120 women to serve in the 117th Congress today and for us to elect the first woman Vice President, Kamala Harris, in the history of our nation. The endless possibilities of what we can do offer us glimmers of hope.

Driven by these women's service and leadership, we passed historic provisions in the House. From how the military handles sexual assault to strengthening the rights of women in the workplace through the Paycheck Fairness Act and Pregnant Workers Fairness Act. We stand for reproductive health freedoms with the Women's Health Protection Act. The Build Back Better Act's historic investments in maternal care, paid family and medical leave, child care - this was a woman's agenda. We must Build a Beautiful America where women have health rights and ability to participate in our workforce knowing their children are cared for.

On this International Women's Day, let us remember all we can achieve when we stand strong and steadfast for equality and gender justice. I've been lifted up by those that came before me in solidarity and recommit to advance the rights of women so that our daughters, women, girls can continue to carry the fight for full equality; I will use all my strength to lift onto my shoulders those who will carry us into an equitable future."

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