Today, we mark the start of Women's History Month. In March, we commemorate the magnificent accomplishments and sacrifices women have made to ensure that we are leaving our mark for future generations, and that our contributions and sacrifices are not in vain.
When I was in the House of Delegates, I was proud to co-patron historic legislation that finally ratified the Equal Rights Amendment in Virginia. I worked to address a variety of issues that disproportionately impact women — particularly Medicaid eligibility and access (I experienced poverty as a single mother and would not have survived without Medicaid).
But this year, I look at the state of our country and find it hard to observe Women's History Month without noting all the ways in which we've continued to fall short in uplifting opportunities and dignity for women.
We still do not have pay equity. We still face workplace discrimination. We face violence and more. And we're facing a new reality in which the right to reproductive freedom is no longer guaranteed (and would be repealed here in the Commonwealth if Glenn Youngkin had his way).
I'm determined to fight whatever battles must be fought to reclaim our lost rights and make the progress that has long been promised. From organizing, to marching, to voting, to demanding more of our legislators, we cannot slow down and we cannot allow ourselves to be silenced.
I stand in solidarity — this month and in all months — with my sisters everywhere who've dedicated their lives for decades in the push for equality. Let us recommit to staying on the path toward justice.
