Senator Malcolm A. Smith Reminds us that March is Women’s History Month

Malcolm A. Smith

March 9, 2011

Women

March is a great opportunity to volunteer and help women in the community.

(Hollis, NY)- Senator Malcolm A. Smith (D-Hollis, NY) notes the month of March is Women’s History Month, which is a great opportunity to reflect not only on how women have shaped our society, government, culture and all aspects of our lives, but also the inequalities that remain, particularly the absence of equal pay for equal work.

“New York has played a proud role in women’s history, and now we must continue to lead the way for a brighter future. The legacy of equality and justice passed down from generation to generation is the obligation for continued progress that we owe to our daughters and granddaughters. This month is a great opportunity to acknowledge the accomplishments of women.” Senator Smith continued “March is also a great opportunity to volunteer and help women in the community, particularly women working to regain strength after incidences of domestic violence, and the mothers who are homeless and struggling to provide for their children as a result of the economy.”

New York was home to Eleanor Roosevelt, Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Susan B. Anthony and Shirley Chisholm; today, two justices of the United States Supreme Court, Sonia Sotomayor and Elena Kagan, both hail from New York, as well as Secretary of State Hillary Clinton.

“Sexism, discrimination, homophobia, and racism are prevalent in our society and diminish our progress as a nation. I encourage all New Yorkers to reflect on our history and accomplishments this month and rededicate ourselves to fairness and equality for all, and volunteer in a way that helps women in our community,” concluded Senator Smith.

Great organizations which help women succeed include:

· New York State Coalition Against Domestic Violence: http://www.nyscadv.org/

· Safe Horizon, which moves victims of violence from crisis to confidence: http://www.safehorizon.org/

National Women’s History Month has been officially celebrated in the month of March since 1987. For information and local Women’s History Month events please go to: http://womenshistorymonth.gov/

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Malcolm A. Smith is the New York State Senate Immediate Past President Pro Tempore (2008-10). He currently serves as Secretary of the NYS Democratic Conference and ranking member on the Banking Committee.

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