Schakowsky Statement Commemorating Women's History Month

WASHINGTON– Today, Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky, a Senior Chief Deputy Whip, released the following statement:

"Today marks the beginning of Women's History Month. Through the month of March, we celebrate the accomplishments and courage of women all over the world. We have made significant progress through the years, from increased access to safe and legal abortions, to the termination of gender discrimination in health insurance, to thousands of women serving as leaders in Congress, businesses, the military and in our communities.

“This year, we have continued to crack the glass ceiling. We celebrate the return of the first woman Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi, and the highest number of women, more than 100, serving in Congress. This is special, because during this Congress we mark 100 years of women having the right to vote.

"While today is the first day of Women's History Month, we are still on the defensive against a White House that seeks to stifle women and take away our rights and freedoms. Just last week, the Trump Administration finalized a gag rule probating doctors from even talking with their patients about having an abortion. Women are still paid far less on the dollar than men. And, we are still fighting for paid sick and family leave and affordable child care. We should celebrate this month by both enjoying our successes and addressing the struggles we still must overcome. We must continue fighting to ensure our right to high quality health care, equal pay for equal work, affordable child care, paid sick leave and all other priorities we must achieve.

“I will continue to advocate for the advancement of the rights of women all over the world. This is a time for women to continue mobilizing, organizing and fighting for full equality.”