On the recordMarch 17, 2021
I thank the gentlewoman for yielding. I rise today to honor our foremothers who first demanded equity in and outside the home, along with the sheroes of today who still battle for it amidst this deadly pandemic both on and behind its front lines. The onset of COVID-19 pushed so many brave women into the deadly viral fires. It also foisted upon too many of them an inordinate share of unpaid caretaker and teacher roles once they were safe at home. Throughout all of history, it is women, especially those of color, who bear the harshest health and economic burdens and fallout from such national crises. The data is clear: Only a full recovery that prioritizes women can reverse this ``she-cession'' we are in. That is why I proudly supported the American Rescue Plan, which provides much-needed help to women across this country. This relief package includes historic expansion of the child tax credit to help lift children and families out of poverty, and provides paid-leave tax credits to help more women stay in the workforce. It also makes the investments needed to safely reopen schools and keep the childcare industry afloat so women and families can pay for care and get back to work. And with the inclusion of $1,400 stimulus checks per family member and extended unemployment assistance, women can finally regain their footing as equal partners and breadwinners.…





