Supporting the Goals of International Women's Day

SUPPORTING THE GOALS OF INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY

______

Speech of

HON. CAROLYN B. MALONEY

of New York

in the House of Representatives

Wednesday, March 11, 2009

Mrs. MALONEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H. Res. 194, a resolution to support the goals of International Women's Day. I'd like to take this opportunity to commend the work of my colleague, Rep. Jan Schakowsky, for introducing this resolution again in the 111th Congress, and for her invaluable work in support of women's rights as co-chair of the Congressional Caucus on Women's Issues. In the United States and in countries around the world, women are agents of change, development, and prosperity, contributing in so many ways to the well-being of their families and communities. There is clear and abundant evidence that when women thrive, the entire world thrives as well. However, the benefits of women's full participation in economic, political, and social life are not being realized in many parts of the world. In all regions, women are less likely than men to receive pay commensurate to the value of their work, be given a voice in their national governments, or have access to basic human rights such as the right to an education. In many countries, the United States included, domestic violence is further reducing the opportunities available to women and girls to lead happy, healthy lives. H. Res. 194 is an important step towards guaranteeing the basic rights of women and girls worldwide by calling for an end to this discrimination. Throughout my time in Congress, promoting women's rights has been one of my top legislative priorities. For years I have worked tirelessly with likeminded colleagues to restore funding to UNFPA, an organization whose mission is to promote the right of every woman to enjoy a life of health and equal opportunity. I commend the new Administration for recognizing the value of this goal by committing to funding UNFPA, including $50 million in the FY09 Omnibus Appropriations Bill. However, more needs to be done in the 111th Congress to further women's rights. That is why I will be introducing a resolution condemning the actions of the Taliban to restrict girls' access to education in Swat, Pakistan, as well as H.R. 606, the International Women's Freedom Act. This bill reflects the goals of International Women's Day in many ways, as it calls for concerted action on the part of the State Department and Executive Branch to advance the rights of women, including creating an Office of International Women's Rights within the State Department, establishing a women's rights Internet site, and requiring that Foreign Service Officers receive women's rights related training. This resolution in support of International Women's Day recognizes the strength, leadership, and capability demonstrated by women in every village, city, and country. I ask my colleagues to join me in reaffirming their commitments to protecting the rights of women and girls around the world, by observing International Women's Day, and by honoring women's contributions every day.