Chairman Cleaver’s Statement on Women’s History Month

Washington, DC – Chairman Emanuel Cleaver II, released the following statement celebrating Women’s History Month:

 

“Today, we celebrate Women’s History Month and honor the tremendous contributions women continue to make in our society and world. This year’s theme, ‘Women’s Education—Women’s Empowerment’, is a great one as the struggle for equality in education and several other areas has been long and arduous and in some cases we are still fighting the battle. Many of our members, past and present, have been great advocates for women’s equality. We count among our former members Shirley Chisholm, one of the founders of our caucus and the first woman and African American to run for the Democratic presidential nomination. We also salute the fifteen women serving in the Congressional Black Caucus today and their continued contributions to our goal of ensuring that all Americans, regardless of race, color, creed, or gender have the chance to pursue and achieve the American dream.

 

“It’s ironic and sad, that on the day when we kick off a month-long celebration of the accomplishments and milestones of women,  the Senate debated disturbing legislation that would put health care for millions of women at risk– including the 20 million women already benefiting from preventive health services guaranteed under the Affordable Care Act.  Thankfully it was defeated but we know that this was just the latest attempt by the Republican Leadership to disrespect the health and well being of American women.

 

“When and if the next fight should come, I along with the Democratic Members of the Congressional Black Caucus stand firm in defeating it.”