Pelosi Statement on Women’s Equality Day

Contact: Drew Hammill/Caroline Behringer, 202-226-7616

San Francisco – House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi released the following statement today in commemoration of Women’s Equality Day, which marks the 96th anniversary of the 19th amendment:

“Ninety-six years ago, American women won the right to vote.  Today, on Women’s Equality Day, we celebrate their courage, sacrifice, and commitment to making America more American.  Women’s Equality Day is more than the celebration of the 19th amendment which enshrines women’s right to vote; it also marks the progress Americans have made toward fulfilling the promise of equality for all. 

“As we mark the progress we have made, we must also rededicate ourselves to the work left to be done.  With women earning only 79 cents for every dollar earned by men, there is work to do for true women’s equality.  Indeed, the wage gap is even larger for women of color – with African American women earning only 60 cents and Latinas only 55 cents for every dollar earned by white, non-Hispanic men.  This Congress can honor the legacy of visionary suffragettes, by passing the Paycheck Fairness Act, which would finally help ensure that women actually receive equal pay for equal work.  Also, we must also fight the ongoing efforts in Congress to deny women access to comprehensive health care, including access to affordable contraception. 

“Today, as we commemorate women’s right to vote, let us continue to advance and strengthen our nation by ensuring that all our daughters and sons have access to the equality of opportunity needed to fulfill their potential and achieve the American Dream.”

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