Women all over the world are contributing to the growth of economies, participating in the world of diplomacy and politics, and improving the quality of lives of their families, communities, and nations.  

That is why I am introducing a bipartisan resolution today to commemorate International Women’s Day.  Congress must go on record honoring the women around the globe, from the Americas, Africa, the Middle East, Asia, South Asia, and Europe, who have all contributed enormously to the struggle for gender equality and the advancement of women.

Sadly, for every successful woman, countless others are living in poverty and fear, without means of independence or an opportunity to learn or grow.  That must change, and we must make it our mission here in Congress to help bring about that positive change.

We can start by passing H.R. 3342, the Access for Afghan Women Act of 2001. 

Women in Afghanistan are now finally beginning to see the entrance to the tunnel of justice and economic independence – a tunnel that is fraught with obstacles, social barriers, and danger.  For our sisters in Afghanistan, it will be a long journey to reach the light at the end of that tunnel in order to reclaim their rightful role in society.  We can help them by passing this legislation.

The Bush Administration is spending billions of dollars on the war on terrorism.  As we fight this war, we must combat with equal vigor the terror that women and girls face in their daily lives in this country and abroad.