Political Quotes

“It is with great sadness that I rise today in memory of one of Louisiana's great public servants, Ms. Sydnie Mae Durand. As the parish in which I grew up lays her to rest today, it is notable to recognize that she grew up at a time when a woman's place in the South was culturally in the home. She pioneered her way into a male-dominated oil and gas industry. She constructed and then walked proudly through the door that many women of south Louisiana would soon follow. During the 37 years she devoted to the oil and gas industry, she found time to serve her community--again, leading women into politics locally by becoming the first woman to preside over the St. Martin Parish Council and then by becoming the first woman to be elected to serve as the District 46 State House representative, where she served for 16 years. Her passion involved health care, where she chaired the House Health and Welfare Committee and served on many other national and State boards that dealt with the health care needs of children. While she will be missed by all, her work and legacy will continue to have a positive impact on the great State she leaves behind. ____________________”