Schakowsky Praises House and Senate Passage of the Women, Peace and Security Act
Today, Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky released the following statement after the House of Representatives passed S. 1141, the Women, Peace and Security Act. This bipartisan bill, which Rep. Schakowsky authored along with Rep. Kristi Noem (R-SD), Rep. Eliot Engel (D-NY), and Rep. Ed Royce (R-CA) in the House, promotes the participation of women in resolving conflicts around the world. It was passed by the Senate on August 3rd, 2017 and will now go to the President's desk to be signed into law.
"I am thrilled that Congress has unanimously passed the Women, Peace and Security Act today. This important legislation is the culmination of many years of hard work and dedication. I am very thankful to my colleague and co-lead Rep. Kristi Noem for her tireless efforts on behalf of women worldwide, as well as to Chairman Royce, Ranking Member Engel, Senator Shaheen and Senator Capito.
"Around the world, women are disproportionately affected by conflict and violence. At the same time, we have seen example after example of women acting as some of the most effective advocates for peace. When women are involved, peace is obtained more frequently and is much more likely to last. In fact, the International Peace Institute found that with each five percent increase in women's participation in the political process, a nation is five times less likely to use violence when faced with international crisis or conflict.
"As the House passes this bill today, I can only think of the inspiring women who have fought for and promoted peace around the globe; from the Philippines and Liberia to Colombia and everywhere in between. Today we honor their efforts and successes by passing legislation that ensures that America will put women at the forefront of the crucial struggle to achieve peace around the world."
A video of Rep. Schakowsky's full remarks on the passage of the bill is included below: